My Boys...Believe It or Not - A Peggie's Place devo

Scripture reading: Matthew 7:7-11

Years ago, I was part of an Easter musicale, "The Witness," and sang, "My Boys," as the mother of James and John, recommending them to be enthroned next to Him in heaven. It was a fun, exciting performance; however, little did I know some day, believe it or not, I would be singing "My Boys" to anyone who would listen!

You see, I love Joey and Jason, now young adult characters I once (or TWICE!) carried for nine months. I love to talk about them, to do nice things for them, to burst buttons in pride at their accomplishments. They's MY boys (well, OUR boys!!), and I'm there for them - usually, except possibly at 4 a.m. when Joey invites me to a telesopic show - or when Jason hands me a birthday present wrapped in the obituary page of the paper!!

We won't mention the messes either - if you have kids, you understand - but when the last pizza is gobbled up, the last mess cleaned up, and they head back to graduate schools, believe it or not, they're STILL my boys....should they ask me for a dollar, I'll not give them a dead fish (though, come to think of it, they'd find it fascinating!). If they need a hug, a listening ear or a word of encouragement, they'll not get a stone-cold shoulder. Mama is there...and they know it.

Our Heavenly Father wants US to know it and believe too - this day. Be it a problem, a puzzle, a pain, He knows and He cares. He will be there to comfort, to encourage, to surprise, to understand. Whatever you need today, your Heavenly Father is there! Believe it or not - it's true! Receive it, remember it, and have a wonderful choco-rich, delightful spring day!

P.S. My boys will be back for Mother's Day - better stock up the fridge - and get ready for the next lovely mess - Mama will be there!!

Additional link: The Bohanon Brain Center . . . The Family Room


--by Peggie C. Bohanon. Copyright 2008, Springfield, MO. All rights reserved.
--Visit Peggie's Place for more.

Tags: family, parenting, Bible, Christian, Heavenly Father, Jesus, God, religion, Christianity, faith, spirituality, Christian faith.

For God So Loves...China: An Olympic-based devo!

One of the first Bible verses a Christian child learns is John 3:16--it's called the "Gospel in a Nutshell" - and it's about to crack WIDE OPEN in the heathen land of CHINA, as GOD breaks through with His Word! (See "China Sets Out to Make an Impression on the World before 2008 Olympics in Beijing"). While it may bring protest from around the globe, to the Christian heart, it's bringing "GOOD NEWS!" Why?

Because the GOOD NEWS of the Gospel of Jesus Christ now has a wide, open door, through the Olympics, into the land of China. Think about it! Millions of internationals will fill the city of Beijing--and you KNOW there is sure to be a strong Christian witness, as there's been in previous Olympics worldwide. THE GOSPEL IS GOING TO CHINA...praise the Lord!

And WHY China? Because God loves His world so much that He would not have one person ANYWHERE perish that is seeking Him. Millions upon millions in that heathen nation need the Lord. It's not just about the Olympics--it's about God's LOVE!

And...if GOD loves millions of persons who've never heard--some who've rejected the Gospel and some who have strongly persecuted the bearers of the Gospel, how much does He love YOU today - WHEREVER on Planet Earth you live--and WHATEVER your need....Reach out to Him, for the God who loves CHINA...LOVES YOU!! Now believe it and have a wonderful day!

"For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life (John 3:16, KJV)."

"Lord, You love your world and YOU are in control. You love the Chinese people as much as You love us--and that's A LOT! Give us a burden to pray that Your love will break through the Bamboo Curtain and fill that dark land with Your Light - use believers to bring the Word to Beijing and may it spread through the land. And Lord, overwhelm each of us with Your love personally--for You not only love the millions...You love ME, In Jesus' Name, Amen."

--Copyright 2008 by Peggie Bohanon, Springfield, MO. All rights reserved.
--Visit Peggie's Place for more.

FEATURED LINKS
The Official Website of the Beijing 2008 Olympics
International Olympic Committee - Olympic Games

Multilingual Christian Resources at Peggie's Place--includes Chinese links.

China - Wikipedia Encyclopedia
China Travel Dot Com
China Photo Gallery
China photos and pictures

"China: Focus on concerted prayer in Olympics year"
"Christian Groups Plan for Olympic Harvest in Beijing"
"Despite China's ban on missionaries, Christians to evangelize at 2008 Beijing Olympics"

A Special Feature for Chinese-speaking individuals: Chinese Christian Online Education Network

Olympic Glory for Beijing!

Persecuted church links
Featured devotional: A Saving Place...A SAFE Place!?!

Featured site: International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church

Christian Monitor
COMPASS Direct
Connections: Persecution and the Church
International Christian Concern

The Bible Site--Donate Bibles--FREE!

Voice of the Martyrs
Voice of the Martyrs/Canada

World Serve Ministries

Listen to Christian songs (Chinese)
Lamb Music - Chinese Christian songs . . . Chinese Christian Music Association

YouTube Christian Church Music Institute for Worship . . . "Lord, My Dearest Friend" . . . GodTube.com - Chinese Christian resources

Internet Chinese Music Archive - Children's Songs . . . Chinese Traditional: National Geographic World Music

Tags:2008 Olympics,missions, Christian evangelism, Bible, Christian, Beijing, China, Jesus, God, religion, Christianity, faith, spirituality, Christian faith.

'Twas the Night before Easter!

Enjoy a parody of the classic Christmas poem:
"'Twas the Night before Easter!"

See today's Fun 'n Faith newsletter for many Easter links and resources.

Have a Happy Easter from Peggie's Place - He is risen; He is risen indeed!

Tags:Easter,Bible, Christian, Christian living, Scripture, Jesus, God, religion, Christianity, faith, spirituality, Christian faith.

Hallelujah: Heaven's A-men to a Black Ice May-hem!

"Heaven Is Closer than You Think!"

It sounds like a piece of heavenly fiction.....but it's true......

Once upon a time........

We were returning home from church on Monday evening. It was very cold with a light rain - there was black ice on the road that we could not see. As we got close to our home, traveling north on a busy highway, Joe suddenly saw a bicycle rider on the side and swerved slightly to be sure to avoid him - and the mayhem began! The car hit a patch of the black ice and went totally out of control...swerving back and forth across the highway about three or four times and finally coming to land in front of a church - in a grassy knoll/ditch, forcifully (!!) hitting a tree stump which apparently stopped the careening car.

We were jolted about in the car but not hurt - I'm a bit sore and creaky, but nothing to speak of. God protected us - it could have been fatal, especially if a car had been coming south on the highway as we were swerving all over the place.

Black ice madness and mayhem! Scary, for sure, but here is the awesome thing that happened. When I got home, I quickly called Grace, my "adopted mom" at Maranatha, and she answered the phone by saying, "Hallelujah!" - Well, that is NOT the normal way to answer the phone but she could not get the word, "Hello," out. She had just been deep in prayer, thanking the Lord for me and the blessing I've been in her life, praising the Lord, when the phone rang.

It startled me, of course - for she had no idea what I was about to tell her - of God's awesome protection. She must have been praying and calling my name to the Lord right at the time the accident happened. It was heaven's "Amen" to a crisis averted.....He had sent His angel to keep us safe from harm.

The car is a mess - we were able to drag it home - no headlights/bumper & front-end stuff/a ruined tire/alot of damage.....but we are OK! Cars are replaceable - Peggie & Joe are NOT....

.......and, by God's awesome grace, they plan to live happily ever after anyway.......HALLELUJAH!!!!

In a bit of madness and mayhem yourself? Remember, the God of miracles is listening, watching and able to employ 10,000 angels to protect and watch over you in whatever crisis you are in right now. Look up, take note - Heaven is closer than you think!

Prayer: "Thank You, Lord, for Your awesome protection and amazing grace. We bow in humble thanksgiving, then rise with a hearty HALLELUJAH for who You are and how You take care of Your kids......Take care of every "kid" reading this devotional today. You know the need; you know the madness and mayhem in lives everywhere. You alone are our help and hope; we praise Your Name, Amen."

Psalm 91. . . . . The Hallelujah Chorus
Messiah/Handel - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Tags:travel,God's protection, Christian testimony, Bible, Christian, Christian living, Scripture, Jesus, God, religion, Christianity, faith, spirituality, Christian faith.

A Block, a Tackle 'n a Touchdown: A Christian devotional at Peggie's Place!

I once played a game of "touch football" like you would not believe! Now that's an amazing statement from a gal who has no idea what's going on when she watches or goes to a football game. It's Greek to me--and if you sat beside me, you'd spend more time just explaining and sharing my junk food than watching the game! SO--you know this football-challenged female is not talking about REAL football--and that the Lord has a real sense of humor to prompt her to do a sports-related devotional!

The game of the week involved "The Son with the Missing Coat," "The Mouse with the Mangled Lint" and "Too Late for Breakfast at McD's," all in one terrible morning. (You are welcome to use your imagination to catch the touching details!)

Now I love my son, I adore my mouse, and I delight in the breakfast at McD's--but when none of them work like they're supposed to, Mama's not a happy game-player! Many yards--and many tears--later, the foe found out he didn't win and Mama was finally laughing at the finish line over the mishaps of one mad morning. Believe me, this quarterback mom made a touchdown and an extra-point kick over the opposing team that day!

Ever have days like that in YOUR game of life? Well, if you have and are honest enough to admit it, get on your football gear with me (whoa...how in the world do I put this stuff on!), do a few push-ups (ouch...that hurts!), and let's make a mad dash (oops...is that a TRACK term?) for the Well. Someone who loves us all, sports fans or not, is waiting to call the plays in our game of life! And football experts--enjoy the game; this "sports" writer has no idea what she's talking about!

A Helping Word...or Two!

Mind the Blocks--Sensitivity Training!
Blow the whistle--Someone's blocking, and it doesn't make sense! The Lord opened a door, and now He seems to be closing the same door. His will, so clear to your thinking one day, becomes muddled the next....now how in the world do you play THAT game? Well, God doesn't play games with us--He is trustworthy. His thoughts and ways are higher than ours, and once we surrender to that premise, we can say, "OK, Coach--I sure don't understand what You are doing, but I do trust You and I will obey You!"

Is there a "blocked" play in your life today? Don't sweat it--God is in control. The whole game plan is clear and safe in HIS keeping, not yours. So carry on...don't drop the ball. Just be sensitive to His leading. Focus on loving and listening to Him--leave the details with Him--and let Him call the next play!

Mark the Tackles--Strategy Alert!
Blow the whistle--someone's tackling--and it's as illegal as can be. Our foe doesn't obey the rules; he will catch you in the middle of a play, completely unexpected, and try to pound you into the turf--if you let him. But Someone is guarding you, watching out for your welfare, and He will never let Satan win. As a matter of fact, the old foe lost the game a long time ago at the Cross of Calvary and the Empty Tomb! Someone "greater" is within you--and you are going to make it all the way with His mighty help!

Is the "tackler" on your playing field today? Learn his strategy; then get out the Game Book and play YOUR strategy--God's Word! Show him every truth that tells of his demise; shout it aloud if necessary! Send him screaming to the sidelines, for he IS defeated. Mark your victories--remind him of those past battles won in the Name of the Lord. And you can mark it well too, Satan, for some day you will be thrown out of the game forever--into the pit of Hell where you belong. Claim God's powerful Word; say it aloud so the devil is sure to hear it--and then take off running with that ball!

Make the Touchdown--Success Achieved!
Blow the whistles, the noisemakers, the horns and the trumpets--it's touchdown time! But it's a touchdown at a time--for each day you defeat Satan with the Word of God, each time He flees at the mention of the Blood of Christ, you've won. We are victors and conquerors--in the "touch football" of life, the little skirmishes that mess us up--and in the "Super Bowl" games of life, the serious bigtime battles we face. The point is--he can't win! And someday, the final game will be played, the final touchdown will be made, and we will be HOME...a baseball term, I know--but in THIS football game it fits, because "Home is where the heart is," and our hearts and our eyes are fixed on Him, the author and finisher of our faith. Someday we'll remove the helmet and take off the uniform for a crown of gold and a robe of righteousness. When the game's over, I want to be there--on the winning side, don't you!

OK, football experts, have a "ball" enjoying the mixed metaphors from this "sports" writer's pen--but this much I DO know: every good football game has some good get-up-and-go cheerleaders. And we've got them too! Watching from the stands are millions of believers, who've "finished the course and run the race" (now we're in track, but it's biblical); they cheer us on. We won't disappoint them, for in the power of the Lord, we shall win the game of all time in His Name, by His Word, through His power--and THEN the after-game celebration party begins! Don't despair; don't be defeated! The Divine coach watches every play and keeps careful score. By His Grace--a few blocks, a tackle or two, and a thousand touchdowns--we win!!
Now go enjoy the coming football season including the big SUPER Bowl down the road (or field) a ways--you can email me to explain it--but KNOW there's a SUPER Game of Life that's far more important; for when you know the COACH, abide by HIS rules and play HIS way, you WIN--each day, each play, all the way!

PS. And if anyone has seen one lost Starter Jacket in the stands or in cyberspace...

"Lord, sometimes I get so weary in the game of life. The devil tackles and I succumb; and then Your grace rescues me. Give me muscles of maturity; help me to grow as I train and play and run. I plan to win! In Your power and in Your Name, Amen.

Verses from The Armor Room at Peggie's Place!
SPORTS page at Peggie's Place

Official Site of Super Bowl

All about Football (for Peggie!?!)

Super Bowl Party Snacks

Tags:sports,football, SuperBowl, Bible, Christian, Christian living, Scripture, Jesus, God, religion, Christianity, faith, spirituality, Christian faith.

Sovereignty, Secrets, Steroids and the Son Made Flesh!

A Treatise on Baseball Rules, Revelations - and God's Righteousness!

Daily Manna's Bible reading: John 1:1-9 (NIV)


Now I'm not a theologian but I guess it would help as I attempt to TACKLE a big BASKET full of dark BASEBALL secrets in the light of God's Word. Let me try!

To a Sovereign God, Who knows all, sees all, and IS all, there are no secrets. Perhaps our sports heroes should have realized that - before, not after, the steroids scandal, now exposed to the whole world.......but.......

Before we cast stones at the Mister Baseballs of our world, sad and disappointed as we are, perhaps we should look within and recognize some personal secrets and sins of our own. Shame on ALL of us - yesterday, today and forever - right??

NO, NO, a thousand times NO...Why? Because the Son has become flesh and bore our shame - all of it! He knows the inabilities of humanity to keep the rules - to ever meet the standards of a holy God....and that's why He came. That's why there's Christmas......you see, there is HOPE - for you, for me, for all the Mister Baseballs, Basketballs and Footballs in our world......He became one of us that we might be forgiven and become one with Him. It's ours for the asking!

We're talking about more than major sports and deception...we're talking major grace and truth - that He, the Blessed Son of God, made flesh for US, would love us, redeem us and bring us HOME to the God who made us! What a Savior.....What a Lord.......He "who came from the Father, full of grace and truth" (John 1:14 NIV), is here to meet us, not at the manger, but at the foot of the Cross. There we exchange our dark secrets and sinful selves for His own life and righteousness.....what forgiveness, what grace and truth is ours - all of us - this day. Accept it, believe it and have a wonderful day on the baseball diamond of your life, wherever in this redemptive world you live!

"God's Sovereignty" - TopC.com
"The Word Was Made Flesh" - by John Piper

The Official Site of Major League Baseball

Sports Resources at Peggie's Place!

Copyright 2007 by Peggie C. Bohanon, Springfield, MO. All rights reserved.

Baseball photo: Christianet.com

Tags: sports,steroidslbaseball scandal,baseball,Bible,Christmas, Christmas devotionals, Christian, Christian living, Scripture, Jesus, God, religion, Christianity, faith, spirituality, Christian faith.

A Devo-a-Day: Celebrating Christmas with Christ!

Enjoy a series of Christmas devotionals from Peggie's Place during this Christmas season. You might want to bookmark this page to read one each day (December 1 to December 26) and then "take your pick" from a devotional buffet with a New Year's devo for good measure. It's all during the month of December--it IS His birthday on our calendars, remember? "Lord, help us all to remember and to rejoice in the Good News of Your coming to this world--and to our hearts!"

"A Devo-a-Day: Celebrating Christmas with Christ!."

You'll also want to check out a popular section of Peggie's Place for the Christmas season: "A Top Ten Christmas at Peggie's Place!".

Enjoy -and a Merry Christmas to all!

Tags: Christ,holiday,Bible,Christmas, Christmas devotionals, Christian, Christian living, Scripture, Jesus, God, religion, Christianity, faith, spirituality, Christian faith.

What's In Your Basket...A Thanksgiving Inventory!

Daily Manna's Bible reading: Deuteronomy 28:1-6 (NIV)

It's that time of the year when shopping baskets are full to overflowing. We plan a huge Thanksgiving feast, compliments of some poor turkey, and we thank God for His provision.
That's "normal" for a Christian......but what if your life basket is not not normal and not full? More accurately, you yourself are a basket case - spiritually, emotionally, physically, mentally.....what to do??

Empty your basket of woes at the Cross and fill it with God's goodness! It's found in His Word and is food for the hungry, weary, worn-out soul! He has blessed us beyond measure - and yes, even when we are hurting, grieving, wounded - that's when He loves us even more......His footprints are right along side of us as we walk through the valleys of life..,...and sometimes, according to the famous "Footprints," there's only one set of footprints - for He is carrying us.

Lean on Him, laugh a little, love a lot - and you are going to have one awesome Thanksgiving day TODAY - and it's not even Thanksgiving yet!

Thanksgiving at Peggie's Place!
"Moses 'n Me: Basket Case for the Lord!"
"Footprints - in the Sand!"
"Whose 'Footprints' Is It?"

Tags: Bible,Thanksgiving, . . . devotional, Christian, Christian living, Scripture, Jesus, God, religion, Christianity, faith, spirituality, Christian faith.

It's No Hoax: A Virus Warning from Heaven's Portal - A Special Feature at Peggie's Place

Daily Manna's Bible reading: 2 Corinthians 5:17-21 (NIV)

>>>>>INFECTION STATUS:

You are already infected!
The CURSE was downloaded by Adam and Eve, and we all are born into it. (Romans 5:12)

>>>>>DAMAGE:

Every component of your life is affected. We have been brought under the wrath of God (Ephesians 2:3); made liable to all miseries in this life, to death itself, and even to the pains of hell forever! (Matthew 25:41, Revelation 20:15).

>>>>>REMEDY:

The only remedy is complete forensic reconfiguration of all component parts. This is called Justification.
(Romans 5:18, Ephesians 1:7; 2 Corinthians 5:21).

This is followed by a radical lifetime software purge called Sanctification. (Romans 6:22; Ephesians 2:10, 4:24; 2 Thessalonians 3:13).

The only means of rescue from the power and results of the CURSE is faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. (Acts 4:12).

>>>>>COST:

You cannot purchase this remedy. However, should you neglect this warning, the cost is the eternal wrath of God. (Romans 6:23)

>>>>>ACCESS:

You may acquire justification free of charge. The price was already paid on the cross of Christ. But you must humble yourself in repentance and call on the name of the Lord for forgiveness. Many perish maintaining their "dignity" i.e. pride. "Being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God." (Romans 5:1,2).

For more information and validation, consult the only User's Manual, The Holy Bible.

>>>>>WARNING - THIS IS NOT A HOAX.

Please do not disregard this warning. Do not delay! The CURSE impairs logical functions, input and output, processing and communication, linkup with other systems, and corrupts all disks.

>>>>>The FINAL RESULT will be a total crash. The time of the crash cannot be ascertained, but the fate is worse than mere termination.

>>>>>Jesus Christ is the Lord of all things, every system, every user ... and is your only hope. The good news is that He is available by 24 hour access. No hardware necessary. Simply call out to Him for forgiveness and He will give you His righteousness. Understanding your plight, you have no options:

The buttons are not OK or CANCEL. They are REPENT or PERISH. Simply believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved. (Acts 16:31)

--from CHRISTIAN ARTICLE.
--Selected from God@Work newsletter, a ministry of St Mark's United Methodist Church, Lincoln Nebraska 68520.

About Earth's Hoaxes: Snopes.com . . . Truth or Fiction.

See Peggie's Place for additional Christian resources.

Tags: Bible,heaven,hell,hoax,salvation, devotional, Christian, Christian living, Scripture, warning, Jesus, God, religion, Christianity, faith, spirituality, Christian faith.

Chills, Thrills 'n Devil Delights!?! - A Peggie's Place Devotional

Daily Manna's Bible reading: Matthew 10:26-29 (NIV)

It's Halloween and the night prowlers will be in full force - masked, frightful, funny characters dressed up to scare the daylights out of us all, and then to devour the candy we delightedly give them at our doorsteps. Whatever you believe or don't believe about Halloween, it's here - to enjoy or endure. See "Halloween: A Christian Perspective" for more.

It's Halloween every day for the evil that surrounds us and fills our world. So do we creep under our beds and crawl under our blankets? Do we cringe in fear and yet binge on the candy it hands out - its pleasures, excitements, thrills, chills and devil delights?

No, a thousand times no! We resist the dark; we remain strong in the Light. We are safe, secure and stedfast through Him who has conquered evil at the Cross and predicts its ultimate doom into eternal darkness where it belongs.

Christ has set you free from the DARK - its chills, thrills and devil delights. He is your Savior and Lord, and the Light of the World; there is no darkness in Him! Now believe it, live like it and you will have a choco-rich, God-blessed day!



Halloween-related devotionals by Peggie
M.A.S.K.S.
The Great Pretender . . . The Great Pretense

Chills 'n Thrills!?! . . . Funny Face...Fake Face!?!
When Monsters Turn Your Mansion into Mayhem!

Spooks, Spirits 'n Spoofs! - Part 1 . . . Part 2 . . . Part 3

Copyright 2007 by Peggie C. Bohanon. All rights reserved.

Visit Peggie's Place for more Christian devotionals and resources.

Tags: Bible,Light,evil,darkness, devotional, Christian, Christian living, Scripture, Halloween, Jesus, God, religion, Christianity, faith, spirituality, Christian faith.

Chocolate De-Light!?! - A Peggie's Place devotional

Daily Manna's Bible reading: Ephesians 5:6-14 (NIV)

I once got a delightful email card from a friend, announcing that it was National Chocolate Ice Cream Day and sending me the most scrumptious-looking virtual chocolate ice cream sundae you've ever seen. No calories--it LOOKED delicious! If you missed it this year, you've got my permission to take off work or doing the laundry or running the corporation TODAY, and run out right now and get yourself some REAL chocolate! If you've got kids, better take them with you!
One of my earliest kid memories is having been sent to the store to buy milk or bread. My mom watched at the window as I went...but she did not see me return "in due season." She watched and watched and eventually, she saw her little daughter sauntering down the street with a "buddy," chocolate ice cream running down both their faces.

You see, on my way to the store, I encountered my friend who asked me how much money I had. I showed her and she promptly suggested, "You freat me and I'll freat you--and we'll both get some ice cream!" I wasn't too worldly-wise in those days--I spent the milk money on memorable chocolate, made a good friend, and got a good reprimand from my Mama!

Say "chocolate" and my eyes still light up--for you see, I've never outgrown the delight of indulging in creamy, crunchy, NUTTY chocolate...can't you just taste it now!

Do our eyes also light up in delight when we hear the Name of Jesus? When we grab a morsel of delight from God's Word? When we share that morsel with another? Or has it become a hum-drum routine love affair--the chocolate's melted, the wonder's gone, de-light has gone out! Oh, that we would fall in love anew today with our Lord and Savior, the Light of the world, to delight/re-light in His presence and rejoice in His love....

THEN go light up someone else's "DE-lighted" eyes (and there's a lot of people in our world for whom the light's gone out!), as we share the light of His love--a smile, a hug, a word of encouragement--and yes, some CHOCOLATE too! Do it today--and go have yourself a DELIGHTFUL, choco-rich day!

Copyright 2007 by Peggie C. Bohanon. Springfield, MO 65803. All rights reserved.

Visit Peggie's Place for many more devotionals and Christian resources.

Tags: Bible, devotional, Christian, Christian living, Scripture, chocolate, Jesus, God, religion, Christianity, faith, spirituality, Christian faith.

"I Yam What I Yam" - A Sinner Saved by Grace! (A Peggie's Place devotional)

Daily Manna's Bible reading: 1 Corinthians 15:55-58 (NIV) . . . Psalm 51:10-12 (NIV)

You've sinned - again?? You've blown it - again?? You've lost the victory - again?? Well, haven't we all? There's hope and encouragement from God's Word, and would you believe it, from Popeye the Sailor Man! Read the devo below and believe God's Word today - you are loved, you are forgiven, you are a Child of God - THAT'S WHO you YAM!!

;-) ------

Popeye the Sailor Man turns to Olive Oyl and proclaims, "I YAM WHAT I YAM and that's ALL that I yam!" Aren't cartoons great? They say what we feel--and some days that's JUST how we feel. We're "gonna be ME"--whatever the cause or the case! Then--there are other days, when in frustration we say, "I don't LIKE being ME!"--and whatever THAT cause or case, we moan and we groan, "I can't BE as attractive or articulate, as deep or discerning, as smart or sensitive, as sensational or spiritual, as ________ or _________ (just fill in the blanks of YOUR favorite missing qualities), as WHO? _______________ (Just fill in the blank of a favorite "perfect person" YOU know!)."

Well, have I got GOOD NEWS for you--thank GOD you are not the "WHOMEVER" or "WHATEVER" of that person next door or down the street--in the next pew--or the next-door pulpit! YOU are YOU--exactly as God made you and exactly as God WANTED to make you. Oh, you're not perfect--you have warts like everyone else--including that person to whom you compare yourself! But YOU are YOU--there's not another like you; you're made in HIS image for the work the Father wants YOU to do!

So STOP it--stop putting yourself down! Stop trying to be someone or something you're NOT. Be the person GOD made you to be...and the person you are IN CHRIST......HE is the "I AM" of who "YOU AM"--not good English, but it's sure good preachin'--for HE is our peace, our victory, our forgiveness, our encouragement, our righteousness, our wisdom, our strength, our identity, our joy, our motivation, our message--and when the "I AM" resides in who "YOU AM,"--you're OK! You're MORE than OK--you're a unique jewel in His crown, on display for a world to see HIS love shining brilliantly through the "YOU" that HE made, that HE loves, that HE approves of--so--

Lift up your head, look in the mirror, then look (with love!) at that "perfect person" YOU know and say (to yourself!) with a secret smile, "I am what 'I AM'--a child of the King, the I AM of eternity--that's GOOD enough for me!

...and that's just a little "food for thought" from my heart to yours!

"...by the grace of God I AM WHAT I AM; and his grace, which was bestowed upon me, was not in vain... (1 Corinthians 15:10 KJV)."

Prayer: "Lord, there are days--too MANY days--when I don't like myself. I look in the mirror and disdain the person "I am"--forgive me! Help me to see the person I am in YOU--perfect, redeemed, exactly as you have designed me to be! Help me to "wanna be ME"--the person YOU made, in whom YOU are well pleased--and a person of worth for YOUR Kingdom, In Jesus' Name, Amen."

TODAY'S FEATURED LINK:
"In Christ I Am"--by Dr. Neil Anderson, Freedom in Christ Ministries.

Copyright 2007 by Peggie C. Bohanon. Springfield, MO 65803. All rights reserved.

Tags: Bible, discouragement, sin, devotional, Christian, Christian living, Scripture, Jesus, God, religion, Christianity, faith, spirituality, Christian faith.

"When Your World's on Fire!" - A Peggie's Place devotional

It's October 2007 and we watch the wildfires of a lifetime destroy nature, business, personal property and life itself in a horrendous display of natural disaster, dismay and death. May God Himself bring relief and comfort to those in harm's way, in the hurt and horror of unbelievable crisis and tragedy.

Who? What? When? Where? WHY? The questions are immense and unsolvable, blowing through fiery winds, and lost in the heat of helplessness and horror. Questions with no answers; questions we must commit to the Creator of life; answers we must leave with Him.

Hard? You bet it is - the unanswerable questions of life are ever with us; however, we can present them before the Throne of God where our doubts, fears, questions, anxieties and pain is held closely by Him, the author and finisher of our faith.

Know that He weeps along with us; He too longs for the day when sorrow and pain are erased; when sin and death are no more - His Son's death and Resurrection prove His love for us all. His divine, all-encompassing love with bring us through the flames - by His grace, comfort, wisdom and Word, we will survive!

The World Within You: F aith through the Flames

Through the flames of life, we have the internal assurance that God is there - He is WITH us through our pain; He will walk and talk with us through His Word; He will bring us through. And the pain will not be wasted - the triumphant testimony of His grace will flow from deep within us to reach others in like issues of life. There IS faith through the Flames - it's real, and it's for YOU!

"When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee (Isaiah 43:2 KJV)."

The World Close by You: I nteraction with Friends

Through the flames of life, you'll have friends, real friends who will be there to listen, to comfort, to help, to simply stay beside you and go through the fire with you. There's another Friend who will be with you all the way - He, the Lord of heaven and earth, knows what you're going through and He will walk with you through those flames into His forever peace - a peace during the fire that is as incomprehensible as it is real - but it's from Him, the source of your peace evermore!

"And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:7 KJV)."

The World Around You: R escue Operations

Through the flames of life, rescue will come - from sources and helpers all around you reaching out with love and promptness, in practical ways, to safely exit you from the heat and horror of a heavy crisis. And God will be there too - He is the ultimate Rescuer who came "to seek and to save those who are lost." He will find you in your distress; He will rescue you through whatever means - because He loves you. You can count on it - it's His Word!

"He delivereth and rescueth, and he worketh signs and wonders in heaven and in earth, who hath delivered Daniel from the power of the lions (Daniel 6:27 KJV)."

The World Beyond You: E mergency Assistance

Through the flames of life, assistance arrives - emergency vehicles and personnel show up in record time to render help and healing to persons and families in dire need of food, shelter and clothing. Know that God is there too and He will provide what you need - for body, soul, mind and spirit. You can call on Him day or night and He will be there to be all you need. Believe it and watch Him work!

"But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:19 KJV)."

Your world's on F I R E today? Let the Firefighter of all time take control of the flames too hot for you to handle. He knows how to calm your world - within you, close by you, around y ou and beyond you....There's help, hope and healing in a fallen, flaming world - and His Name is Jesus. May He minister to you this day!

"Tragedy, Faith & Unanswered Questions"
The Emergency Room at Peggie's Place
YAHOO'S full coverage of California fires

Tags: Bible, crisis, fires, devotional, Christian, Christian living, Scripture, tragedy, Jesus, God, religion, Christianity, faith, spirituality, Christian faith.

Confessions of a Chocoholic - A Peggie's Place Devotional

I am a chocoholic. I know it, my friends know it, now YOU know it--and Choco Anonymous should be very happy with my complete confession. I've taken the first step on the road to recovery! OK, if you REALLY know me, you know I don't give up my chocolate THAT easy--and that somewhere, amidst the drippings and delight of my hilarious habit, there would be a devotional. There is!

Blame it on three friends, who last week sent me three chocolate links...one link daring to tell me how to stop my cravings, and another link delighting to say it was good medicine for my health! The third friend just decided to send me the BROWNIE link--what a friend!

Now let's get real about my chocolate habit....and let's chart the progression!

I LIKE IT! - Just a thought-nudger, 'cause a friend, a TV commercial, a magazine ad or whatever brought it to my attention. Piece of cake (chocolate!). I can shrug it off and move on....or can I?

I LOVE IT! - Now it's a heart-grabber, 'cause I've chosen to entertain it. It becomes an obsession. All I can think about is that Baskin Robbin's chocolate almond ice cream, double dip, in a waffle cone. I can almost taste it...that idea has now gone down to my heart. It's starting to take over my LIFE!

I LICK IT! - Now it's a tummy-taker, 'cause I've given in! I've satisfied my desire; I've indulged--and OH, it tastes wonderful. I should do this EVERY day--it's good for my health!

I LOATHE IT! - it's become a toe-stomper, 'cause I'd like to STOMP on that cone! I've gone and done it again...I've yielded to temptation. I hate myself for having given in! I'm a failure...I've blown it! I am a helpless chocoholic...and I WILL resolve to do better next time...

Next time? I forgive myself, forget the lesson, "fudge" on the promise...find my way to Baskin Robbin's--or the freezer, and do it all over again.....

Isn't that just like sin? Think about it, pray about it--and have a good day!
Scripture: "Submit yourselves, therefore, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you (James 4:7 KJV)."

Prayer: "Lord, chocolate's not the problem--sin is. I know I cannot keep thoughts from entering my mind; I CAN choose to entertain them NOT...You know the weakness, the habit, the sin I fight constantly in my life. Forgive me, and help me, by your Holy Spirit, to resist the temptation, to flee from the premises, to put on the Armor of God and to walk in Your Spirit each day, In Jesus' Name, Amen."

Featured link: The Virtual Chocolate Shop at Peggie's Place!

Copyright 2007 by Peggie C. Bohanon, Springfield, MO. All rights reserved.

Tags: Bible, temptation, sin, devotional, Christian, Christian living, Scripture, chocolate, Jesus, God, religion, Christianity, faith, spirituality, Christian faith.

Something Old...Something New: A Bridal Celebration at Peggie's Place!

Daily Manna's Bible reading: Saturday: Isaiah 40:3-5 (NIV) . . . . Sunday: Psalm 119:57-59 (NIV)

I'm a romanticist at heart and learned this one, as you did, years ago...a traditional bride's outfit includes "something old, something new, something borrowed and something _______--BLUE!" You remember it too! Good--for we're about to replay that old rhyme of "good fortune" for the Bride of Christ today.

You see, we've already got the "Old" and the "New" - God's Word of truth, inspiration, comfort and direction - for our life's journey. Claim God's promises--they are never OLD-fashioned; they are NEW every morning--and they're there for you each day.

And the "borrowed"? No way can we borrow the burdens from tomorrow and load them onto our shoulders today.....now we may each need to borrow a friend's shoulder to cry on--and that's OK--but let's "take our burdens to the Lord and leave them there!"--past, present AND future!

And the "blue"? It may be as light blue as a cloudless sky--it may be as dark blue as a stormy heart. See life through heaven's eyes, not your own--and your life will be a BRIGHT blue--as bright as the promises of God! And oh yes...another idea....when you're blue this year, surf on over to the Blue Room at Peggie's Place...and I dare you to stay blue very long! Blue's not your hue when you're here, for where the Lord is, there is "fullness of joy"--and He is here!

Bride of Christ, you've got God's OLD and NEW Testaments, a great Christian friend's borrowed shoulder, and a grand old blue home on the Web--march on into the rest of your life with confidence, victory and joy--we are ONE with Him and we're going to make it! Now believe it--get on that wedding dress, HIS robe of righteousness--and have a great day! (Guys...a dress is a bit much, I know - but the robe will be fine, I promise you...!!)

And so---"Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue"--we're ready, Lord...here comes the BRIDE!

Peggie and Joe's Love Story

Listen to wedding music clips!

Bridal Chorus - Wikipedia - Scroll down to listen to the magnificent Bridal Chorus

"Lord, thank You for giving Your life that You might choose and draw us, as a Bride, unto Yourself. We take Your Name, Your promises, Your Word, into teach new day, with confidence and strength, knowing You WILL be with us, Your Bride, all the way, In Jesus' Name, Amen."

Copyright 2007 by Peggie C. Bohanon. Springfield, MO 65803. All rights reserved.

Note: See Peggie's Place for additional articles and Christian resources.

Tags:

Brothers - and Birthdays!?! - A Peggie's Place devotional

Daily Manna's Bible reading: Matthew 7:1-5 (NIV)

Now you gotta understand - our home some days is "Comedy Central" - other days, it's the island of "Lost" - it's a bit crazy around here!

And why not! May I present a classic example?

It all began one fine day in the fall of 1984. Our son, Joey, almost 3, was excited about a new arrival soon to happen in the Bohanon home. As all "perfect" (!?!) moms-to-be do, I tried well to prepare the first-born for the second-born's birth.

And that's when it happened! He placed his ear on my over-enlarged tummy to "hear" his about-to-be sibling, and lo and behold - he got a personal greeting: a swift, firm KICK from the little person about to become his little brother - and the "Home Alone" kid in our family. THAT was his first introduction to Jason, the little blonde bombshell who arrived on our doorstep October 22, 1984.

Yep, he'll be 23 this coming Monday, and we celebrate his birth - as we should all "babies" in the family - including the family of God! Got a brand-new Christian brother - or sister - who's "kickin'" your shins and cuttin' up a storm in your life?? Love him, let the compassion and wisdom of Christ reign in your relationship. God will be pleased - and YOU will have a better, God-honoring, choco-rich day!

Feature links: Happy Birthday, Jason! (a fun page) . . . The Bohanon Brain Center

"Preparing Your Child for a New Sibling"
"Your Child - Sibling Rivalry"
"Vulnerability and Love in the Body of Christ"

Copyright 2007 by Peggie C. Bohanon. Springfield, MO 65803. All rights reserved.

See Peggie's Place for many more articles and Christian resources.

Tags: birthday, new believers,brothers, siblings, Body of Christ, Bible, devotional, Christian, Christian living, Scripture, Jesus, God, religion, Christianity, faith, spirituality, Christian faith.

God is Love: A 30-Year Love Story from the "Second Book of Ruth" - A Peggie's Place devotional

Daily Manna's Bible reading: 1 John 4:11-16 (NIV)

OK - God's love lasts longer than 30 years, I know! However, a special event is about to take place in the Bohanon family as on October 21, 2007, we celebrate the 30th wedding anniversary of "Ruth and Boaz" - a story of near-Biblical proportion in our hearts and lives!

Our story's been told so many times, our sons know it by heart - and "HEART" - for it's a wonderful story straight from the heart of God - His bringing two people together, in His time, in His Will, and for His purpose.

Enjoy the love story of Ruth and Boaz - "It's a God Thing" - excerpted story - perhaps you should first read the "Someone" poem, written ten years before the grand event!

And "grand" it was - for the love of God brought us together, the love of God has kept us for 30 wonderful years, and the love of God will guide us in the coming days. He is Lord of our lives and we celebrate His love this day!

Copyright 2007 by Peggie C. Bohanon. Springfield, MO 65803. All rights reserved.

Tags: love, marriage, romance, anniversary, Bible, devotional, Christian, Christian living, Scripture, Jesus, God, religion, Christianity, faith, spirituality, Christian faith.

A Noah's Day Recall: Reign of Evil...Reign of God - A Peggie's Place Devotional

Daily Manna's Bible reading: 2 Peter 2:4-6 (NIV)

Here we are again! Another time - another place. The school shooting in Cleveland, Ohio, this past week, has us all horrified, traumatized, victimized, emotionalized - whatever word you can even invent is not sufficient to describe the awfulness of this tragedy once again enveloping a nation and world in sorrow, grief, fear and dismay.

The ungodliness and evil of Noah's day may seem to reign in our world as well - but be assured, God is still on His throne - He reigns eternal. The God of Noah is our God too - He is still in control. Here's a link Noah didn't know about, but in today's hi-tech world we know it's a link to connect a world together in times like these: "Terror in a Teen Tech World". Find helpful links and spiritual resources, with a message of comfort and hope for us all.

May God's wisdom, grace and comfort be with the administration, staff, faculty, students and family members whose lives have forever been touched and changed. Remember, God still reigns - He remains a Rock to Whom we can run - and we run to Him today.

Featured news link: School Shooting in Cleveland, Ohio (YAHOO News)

Copyright 2007 by Peggie C. Bohanon. Springfield, MO 65803. All rights reserved.

--Visit Peggie's Place for additional Christian writings and links.

Tags: tragedy, evil, ungodliness, school shooting, terror, Bible, devotional, Christian, Christian living, Scripture, Jesus, God, religion, Christianity, faith, spirituality, Christian faith.

"When Mama's Words Aren't Enough!?!" - A Devo at Peggie's Place!

Daily Manna's Bible reading: Proverbs 2:1-6 (NIV)

Hmmmm.....a Mama's words "not enough"?? NEVER enough--even though she's been known, universally, to say, with varying tones and impressive tongue: "Clean up that mess; stop picking your nose; close doors behind you; wear clean underwear; eat that broccoli, etc., etc., etc. As either the mom or the kid, you totally understand and can add unique phrases heard in YOUR home!

But Mama's words aren't enough--can you believe she actually said that?? It's true. Read today's awesome verse again.....Our Heavenly Father's got unique words for us all, individually crafted to minister to our hearts, minds, spirits and souls, for whatever need, in whatever circumstance, for all time!

So, "sons, daughters" - listen to HIS Word - yes, even MORE than you listen to Mama's word (or two...) - and from personal experience as a Mom, I know that's a real challenge. So remove the ear plugs and the ear buds - silence yourself in HIS presence - God Himself is speaking!

Love His Word: Dig deep into Psalm 119. (KJV)

Learn His Will: Memorize and believe Proverbe 3:5,6. (KJV)

Live His Way! Absorb into your soul: Psalm 1. (KJV)

Mama's back, believe it or not! Now you can re-insert ear plugs and/or ear buds...BUT not for 24 hours until you've given her a big hug and a great big thank-you for loving you enough to train you to.....love His Word, learn His Will, and live His way.......and Mama always knows best!

Now believe it, receive it, and have a wonderful, God-listening, Mama-loving, choco-rich day!

--Copyright 2007 by Peggie C. Bohanon, Springfield, MO 65803.

Visit Peggie's Place for more Christian devos and resources!

Links:
Nehemiah Ministries - Spiritual Wisdom by Blaine Smith, Christian counselor

The Bohanon Brain Center . . . MamaQuest: Questions Only a Mama Would Ask!!

Tags: mother, sons, communication, Bible, devotional, Christian, Christian living, Scripture, Jesus, God, religion, Christianity, faith, spirituality, Christian faith.

Happy Italiano Day: A Columbus Day Shopping Spree - A Devo at Peggie's Place!

Daily Manna's Bible reading: Hebrews 10:22-24 (NIV)

Today, as in every day, we "draw near to God," and we know "he who promised is faithful." Now the verses go on to "spur one another on toward love and good deeds" - and while we all know what that means spiritually and practically, let me have a little fun today by suggesting a FUN deed for this special day - Columbus Day! Sales are in all the shops on this Italiano holiday - so, Italian or not, ......LET'S GO SHOPPING!

;-) -------


It's Columbus Day, and in honor of the great Italiano, his three little ships, and my America (for I discovered it too!!), this Italiano mama, who loves to shop and eat (not necessarily in that order), is going to take you all shopping! So all aboard...we're sailing back to Bible days and who knows what treasures we'll find!

Now you must understand that I like consignment shops, those little nooks where you can find pre-owned clothing at a price, a good price! So as we sail the sea (and I hope you're driving!!), should I see a sign that says "SALE!", we're stopping, putting down anchor, picking up our carry-alls, and heading for the shops

First stop: It's the strangest brass store you've ever seen, but I just spotted a bargain. It's a complete, never-worn ARMOR, would you believe....and it belongs to DAVID. NO--it doesn't belong to David; he never wore it! It was owned by the king and discarded by David--and it's ours if we want it! Now we fight alot of battles in life--but if I remember the story correctly, David decided he didn't NEED that big old heavy armor. He would be clothed with the power of the Lord--and it was FREE...I believe that's MY choice too, how about you!

Second stop: A jewelry store I'd never walk into without a rich man's wallet. Precious stones--and there in the corner sits a gorgeous crown, never worn...wonder whose it is? I look closer and see Moses' name engraved inside. A crown MOSES could have had--and never wore. He gave it up, choosing rather to suffer with the children of God than enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season. I think I'll pass on that one too.....and I do believe it's no loss. For awaiting me some day is a FREE crown of life...that's MY choice, how about you!

Stores are about to close...and we've one more stop to make--a men's clothing shop. Now here I may find some bargains for my boys. We MUST stop--and I'm glad we did--for look, on the floor lies a barely-worn palace robe--the new fad fashion for teen boys (sure!) in Springfield! Just one small tear--we could fix that. But WHY would someone leave it on the floor? If you were JOSEPH, you would too...you'd run for your life from that woman, the queen. She can keep the coat for a souvenir...for along with Joseph, I'm choosing God's FREE robe of righteousness, how about you!

Back to the boats...we've not bought a thing--but oh, what bargains! We're clothed with the power of God, crowned with life eternal, and garbed in a righteous robe fit for a king. All free--and ours for the choosing. Now I challenge you to keep on shopping in God's Word....discover some other treasures HE has in His heavenly storehouse...there's an abundance of free grace, love, joy, peace, mercy, forgiveness--in "layaway" just for you. Appropriate what you need this day--it's all paid for--and have a great shopping day today!

Prayer: "Lord, thank You for Your Word, where I learn about choices that godly men and women made; choices to rely on You, to serve You and to honor You. I choose to honor you and to receive from your storehouse all the good things You have planned for me, In Jesus' Name, Amen."

Visit Peggie's Place for more Christian devotionals and resources!

TODAY'S FEATURED LINKS:

Italy - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
"10 Great Places to Discover Italy in America" - USATODAY.com
Annie's Columbus Day Page

Italian music: The late Luciano Pavarotti - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia . . . YouTube - Pavarotti - "Nessun Dorma"


Italian dining links:
St. Louis, MO - The Hill . . .
St Louis Fine Restaurant Guide - the Hill

Shopping link: Mall of America

Copyright 2007 by Peggie C. Bohanon. All rights reserved.

Tags: Columbus Day, shopping,Bible, devotional, Christian, Christian living, Scripture, Jesus, God, religion, Christianity, faith, spirituality, Christian faith.

Back to the 60s: Love and Peace for All Time!?! - A Devo at Peggie's Place!

Daily Manna's Bible reading: 1 Corinthians 13:1-4 (NIV) . . . . Ephesians 2:13-18 (NIV)

So you don't remember the 60s? Let me remember for you: the riots, the radicals, the rage - the "Hippy Generation" of , happiness, love and peace for all, sometimes exhibited in less-than-G-movie-format..."love and peace for all time..." - refreshing, rejuvenating, righteous, huh??

Uhhhh.....not exactly! For my Bible tells me there is an authentic love and peace far beyond this world and the wild side of life. It's a forever find - it IS "love and peace for all time" - and eternity too! - where God meets man - and woman - in an interpersonal relationship that lasts. Enjoy with me some of the related links I've found and know that God relates - to you and to your need this day!

First a backtrack - you may even enjoy some of the music!

CrazyFads.com - 1960s fads

Back to the Sixties . . . Remember the 60s? A Nostalgia Quiz

At the Whitney Museum of American Art: Remembering the 60s Lovefest (International Herald Tribune)

;-) ---------

Let's Look at Love - God's Love!

A Paraphrase of 1 Corinthians 13 - by David Sanford
A Teacher's Paraphrase of 1 Corinthians 13 - by Fr. Ron Nuzzi
"Christmas Love" - A Christian Paraphrase of 1 Corinthians 13
"Love: A Paraphrase of 1 Corinthians 13" - ThoughtShades Journal

Let's Look at Peace - God's Peace!

Welcome to Bible Beach--and the Pounding Surf!
God With Us...The Spirit of Christmas! - all year long!

"The War and the Word: God's Peace in the Storm"
Hide 'n Seek - Looking for Love, Joy and Peace . . . The Peacemaker and the Prince

;-) -------------

Spiritual Help: Billy Graham Evangelistic Association
The Emergency Room at Peggie's Place - when you need God's love and peace NOW!

Copyright 2007 by Peggie C. Bohanon. All rights reserved.

Tags: love, peace, 60s, Bible, Sixties, devotional, Christian, Christian living, Scripture, Jesus, God, religion, Christianity, faith, spirituality, Christian faith.

Presenting "The New Jesus":: Man-Made or Mine?? - A Devo at Peggie's Place!

Daily Manna's Bible reading: 1 John 5:1-5 (NIV)

;-) ---------

"There's a new Jesus," I told my husband today. "The Promise," a popular