Come and join us for ...
"A TIME OF REFRESHMENT"

Each Wednesday at 11:00 a.m. Pacific time (2:00 pm
Eastern), come to the Rest Ministries chat room (see
"how-to enter" below) for an enjoyable & friendly hour
where guest speakers share their insights on a particular
topic of interest, followed by a discussion and a chance
for you to ask questions of the guest speaker.  We want
you to find something that will help you along in your
daily journey with chronic illness or pain.  Plus you can
be encouraged by how others may be dealing with their
challenges.

THIS WEDNESDAY'S GUEST:  On May 4th, CARMEN
LEAL is returning to talk about how do we find resources
in the church and community to help us when we have a
need.  She touched on this subject in presentation a few
weeks ago and since there was such a great interest in it,
she is coming back to expand on this topic and give us all
her tips and insight

Carmen is very creative in finding ways to get help in
very practical areas and you will be absolutely amazed at
some of her ideas.  Her sense of humor and enthusiasm
are encouraging and uplifting.  .

God has given Carmen much to bear and He trusts her to
reach hurting people through her life experiences and
gifts. Both passionate and compassionate in her
message, Carmen forms a connection with her audience
and her life and her faith show us that even in seemingly
hopeless situations, God is always there. Carmen Leal is
the author of nine books, is a storyteller and singer and a
popular presenter at women's retreats, church groups,
conventions, and conferences.

(Note:  You may have noticed that Pat Knight was
scheduled for today's guest speaker but due to computer
problems is regrettably not able to take part.)

UPCOMING GUESTS:  Check out our other upcoming
guests and their web sites and information by going to
www.restministries.org/pro-refresh.htm

TRANSCRIPTS for previous chat sessions are available
at www.restministries.org/pro-chattranscripts.htm just
click on the link word "Trans" next to the name of the
person you want a transcript of.

QUESTIONS OR SUGGESTIONS?  Please contact me
at cpage@... with any questions, comments, or
suggestions for topics you are interested in for the chat
sessions.

SMALL PRINT IN THE CHAT WINDOW - Do you have a
hard time seeing the small print in the chat room?  You
can make it larger by doing the following once you are in
the chat room.  Click on the little icon to the right of the
little music notes icon at the bottom.  Once that opens up
(it may take a minute) click on the tab for Font and then
under font size select "Large" or Extra Large".

CHAT ROOM ETIQUETTE: These Wednesday chat
sessions are different from other chat rooms you may
frequent where several people chat with each other about
their personal lives.  In these special Wednesday chat
sessions, please keep in mind that the guest speaker is
the focal point of the whole hour.  It would therefore be
inconsiderate to talk when she is talking or to deviate
from the topic she is speaking on.  Any comments or
questions you are invited to make should stay on the
guest speaker's topic.  So if you have personal
comments or conversations you want with anyone please
leave it until after the chat session is finished or send a
private message.  To do that simply click on the name of
the person you want to chat with from the list of names at
the left and then click on Private, at the bottom of the list,
and a private chat window will open.  The main chat
window remains open at the same time.  You are also
welcome to join in social chatting on Thursdays at 3 p.m.
or just drop in any other time to see if anyone else might
be there to chat with.

TO GET TO THE CHAT ROOM:  Go to
www.restministries.org/pro-chat.htm and type in your
name in the box and click on "Connect".  (It may take a
few minutes to load the chat room window.)

HOW TO GET THERE ON TIME:  To make sure you get
to the Wednesday chat room at the right time (11:00 a.m.
Pacific, 1:00 p.m. Central, 2:00 p.m. Eastern), go to
www.worldtimeserver.com then find the time for
California, USA.  Check that time against your own time
and note the difference.  For example if your clock says
it's 6:00 p.m. and the time for California is 4:00 p.m., then
you are 2 hours ahead.  Therefore, in order to get to the
chat room time for 11:00 a.m. Pacific, you would need to
go there at 1:00 p.m. your time.

Look forward to meeting you there!

Carolann Page
Rest Ministries
A Time of Refreshment Chat Room Host

"Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed,
for His compassions never fail. They are new every
morning; great is Your faithfulness."
Lamentations 3:22-23 NIV



How long has it been since you have had a day without
pain?  For many of us the pain continues with no
relief in sight.  Why is this happening?  Who can
help?  If pain leaves, we often forget, but when
chronic symptoms persist, we wilt and lie helpless.

The Psalmist struggles under affliction and cries out,
"O LORD, heal me!"  He adds, "I am worn out from
groaning; all night long I flood my bed with weeping
and drench my couch with tears" (Psalm 6:6 NIV). There
seems to be no easy answer for the problem of pain. No
help from philosophical answers about the inevitability
of pain or the beneficial results of maturing
through pain.  Like the psalmist, we turn to God in our
despair.  We ask for healing, for relief, for strength.

God understand and can help.  Later the psalmist
exclaims, "The LORD has heard my cry for mercy; the
LORD accepts my prayer" (Psalm 6:9)


But most of all, we can focus on God's Son.  Jesus
became man and experienced pain for us.  His pain was
almost unbearable when beaten and when nails went
through His hands and feet.  There were the hours of
tortured breathing on the cross. In the process, He
conquered sin and death. We may be in pain now but
God heals, soothes, and gives us strength.  Jesus
arose and will come again to take us to eternal
life where there will be no more pain.  What
comfort there is in being assured of this!



ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Patricia Armstrong lives in Virginia Beach, VA., with
her husband, Richard.  Patricia is a retired elementary
school teacher who thanks God for the joy in her life,
which comes from knowing He will always be faithful.
Patricia enjoys her Chronic Pain and Illness Support
Group, church activities, camping, reading and gardening.
She prays that all those who are suffering with pain and
illness will know the real joy that comes from being a
child of God.

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TODAY'S TIDBIT:
   Do you live with fear? (who doesn't at some point
   with chronic illness?) We've found a great new read
   for just $4.99. "How to Conquer Fear" NEW!
   http://www.restministries.org/comfortzone/item136.htm
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TODAY'S TALKBACK:
   What is your greatest indulgence? We can't wait to hear!
   Send your response to: rest@...
   or just hit 'reply.' Please include your name, illness,
   & city/state.

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TODAY'S EVENT:
   None scheduled
   Drop by our chat room any time.
   http://www.restministries.org/pro-chat.htm

"Though outwardly we are wasting away,
yet inwardly we are being renewed day by
day. For our light and momentary troubles
are achieving for us an eternal glory that
far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes
not on what is seen, but on what is unseen.
For what is unseen is eternal."
(2 Corinthians 4:16b-18 NIV)

As we age, our physical bodies gradually
deteriorate.  Feeling that I must do my part
to take care of this mortal body, I try to
exercise daily.

Walking my dog today, I was forced to stop
and lean against a telephone pole to alleviate
the pain in my leg and back. As I stood there,
drinking in the springtime beauty of flowering
azaleas, dogwood and cherry trees, my "light
and momentary troubles" began to dissipate.
Remembering a recent Bible study on the
above Scripture and the promise it gave, I
tried to visualize the eternal glory that would
one day be mine -- a glory that far outweighs
any pain, trial or challenge I now face.

As Mandy and I continued around the block,
a young child rode his bike up close to us so he
could pet my dog. I chatted with his mom
and continued homeward. One more stop --
we greeted our next-door neighbor pulling
into her driveway.

My "light and momentary troubles" had been
replaced with special blessings: a child excited
about my friendly dog, his mom nearby ensuring
her son's safety, a neighborly chat, and time
with God in the midst of a panoramic view of
springtime splendor!

Father, thank You for what You have givenme
today and for what I have to look forward to in
eternity.  When I "Fix (My) Eyes on the Prize"
and not on myself, I am blessed by Your grace
and love. Thank you  for daily renewing me
inwardly so I will be ready for heaven's eternal
glory!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:  Nancy Wilcox lives in
North Carolina with her husband and precious
dog Mandy. Although chronic illness sidelines
her at times, Nancy believes that "... in all things
God works for the good of those who love Him;
who have been called according to His purpose;"
(Romans 8:28).

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TODAY'S TIDBIT:
   Wake up each morning with a reminder that you always
   have hope! Have coffee out of your HopeKeepers Mug and
   then pills out of our pillbox. It's a great way to
   remember to send up a few prayers for our ministry too.
   We thank you for them in advance!
   http://www.restministries.org/comfortzone/Cat6_1.htm

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TODAY'S TALKBACK:
   How do you witness to your doctors and medical staff?
   We're looking for simple ways or more in depth stories.
   Send your response to: rest@...
   or just hit 'reply.' Please include your name, illness,
   & city/state.

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TODAY'S EVENT:
   None scheduled
   Drop by our chat room any time.
   http://www.restministries.org/pro-chat.htm

"But while Joseph was there in the prison, the LORD
was with him; he showed him kindness and granted him
favor in the eyes of the prison warden. So the
warden put Joseph in charge of all those held in the
prison, and he was made responsible for all that was
done there.  The warden paid no attention to anything
under Joseph's care, because the LORD was with Joseph
and gave him success in whatever he did.
(Genesis 39:20-23 NIV)

In the verses before this one we see that Potiphar's
wife tried to seduce Joseph, but he obeyed God and
said no. She then lied to everyone, saying that
Joseph had tried to attack her. Potiphar believed his
wife and Joseph was put in prison.  However, God knew
Joseph was innocent and had done the right thing. He
  was favored by God in all that he did.

My husband, my mother and I were invited to my Aunt's
house for Easter dinner.  I was feeling sad that day.
I had recently lost my dad and a lot of unpleasant
things happened with my family during that time. There
were deceitful things going on and I was making it
clear I was not going to partake in any of it.

I felt scorned because I follow God and that put a
monkey wrench into their plans. However, as seen in
this verse, God knew Joseph obeyed him. Even if everyone
was against him the most important thing was that God
knew the truth and blessed Joseph.

I wished I could have a better relationship with some
of my family members. However, it was revealed to me
that I am a mirror to them. They see the bad parts of
themselves when they see me. They want to stay away
from me because they don't want to see themselves in
that light.  "Everyone who does evil hates the light,
and will not come into the light for fear that his
deeds will be exposed" (John 3:20 NIV)

I just need to keep my eye on Jesus and obey Him. He
sees my heart and that it is full of love, even when
it may feel like it is broken.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Kelly Ehrhardt lives with her husband, a Pastor, and her
4 cats. She suffers from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and
Fibromyalgia. She enjoys being creative and likes making
jewelry. She puts all her faith in the Lord and wants to
help others in need.
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TODAY'S TIDBIT:

   We've had some amazing chat guests during our weekly
  "Time of Refreshment" each Wednesday. But you don't
   have to miss out. We have all the transcripts.
   Includes chat guests photos and topics:

  http://www.restministries.org/pro-chattranscripts.htm



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TODAY'S TALKBACK:

   When you are up in the middle of the night and can't sleep,
   what do you raid your fridge or cupboards for?

  Send your response to: rest@...
   or just hit 'reply.' Please include your name, illness,
   & city/state.



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TODAY'S EVENT:

   HOPEKEEPERS Online Group Meets Tonight

   We are currently going through a
   compilation of Max Lucado devotionals
   For more information on joining see:

   http://www.restministries.org/pro-hkonline.htm



TIME:    5 p.m. Pacific, USA

PLACE:   http://www.restministries.org/pro-chat.htm

"I lift up my eyes to the hills - where does my
help come from?  My help comes from the LORD
the Maker of heaven and earth." Psalm 121: 1,2 NIV



It was the winter of 1994 and I was living a dream.
I was traveling cross country on a train, my first
train trip, kind of like jumping into a pool for
the first time from the ten foot platform.  I just
knew I would love rail travel and I did.  I spent
hours just watching out the window as the United
States went by. Departing from the New Jersey shore,
watched in awe as the train moved through the
Appalachian Mountains, crossed the Mississippi River,
traveled through the plains, climbed the Cascades
and finally, cruised around the Puget Sound.  Three
days and nights on the rails, days spent taking in
the beauty of God's creation in the quiet of a train
compartment!

I've logged over 25,000 miles on the rails since then
and yet I am still in awe of the majesty of this
country.  I've been speechless at the Grand Canyon
and moved to tears by the beautiful sunsets in the
huge skies over New Mexican deserts.  I've probably
sung "How Great Thou Art" at least 1000 times in
praise to our awesome God of Creation.

But, then I think about the many hours I've spent at
home, just my God and I.  Times that I couldn't do
anything but lay in bed, alternating between
television and prayer. It is a lot harder to praise
the LORD in those times but when I think that the same
God who carved the canyons is the God who cares so
much for me, my spirit shouts in worship!  The same
hands that created everything that is beautiful are
the hands that protect and cradle me!  On dark days
or sunny days, I can't help but sing with the Psalmist,
"my help comes from the LORD the Maker of heaven and earth."

"Creator of All,  My eyes can't take in the grandeur of
Your creation.  Teach me to glory in all around me
from the tiniest flower to the vastness of the sky.
In Jesus' Name, Amen."

``````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````

About the Author:  Eleanor Gale lives in southern New Jersey
with two feline housemates; Guinan and Ragamuffin.  The
eldest of six children from a close Christian family
(40 members / 4 generations country wide), her two children,
their spouses and her two grandchildren are her greatest
joys in life.  Although she suffers from Chronic Lyme
Disease, IBS, and Fibromyalgia – she serves God as He
calls her, where He calls her, when He calls her – all
in His power and strength.
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TODAY'S TIDBIT:
   Have you considered starting a HopeKeepers Group?
   Download the information packet or email us your
   postal address if you have any problems.
   http://www.restministries.org/HK/2004_HKinfo_packet.zip
   (choose "save" and then unzip)

   Read more on our HK leader Message Boards too
   http://www.restministries.org/pro-hopekeepers.htm

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TODAY'S TALKBACK:
   What finally motivated you to exercise? What form
   of exercise do you do? How do you stay motivated?
   Send your response to: rest@...
   or just hit 'reply.' Please include your name, illness,
   & city/state.

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TODAY'S EVENT:
"A Time of Refreshment Chat"

TIME:    11 a.m. Pacific, USA
PLACE:   http://www.restministries.org/pro-chat.htm

"If You're Out of Hope I'll Lend You Mine!" says guest
Robin Jackson. In 2001 Robin had to leave a rewarding
job in the corporate world due to a disabling spinal
injury. Because of her relationship with Jesus that
can only be called transformational, Robin chose to
start rebuilding her career as a writer. Join us. You
will love her sense of humor!

For You created my inmost being, You knit me together
in my mother's womb. I praise You because I am
fearfully and wonderfully made, Your works are
wonderful. I know that fully well. My frame was
not hidden from you when I was made in the secret
place. When I was woven together in the depths of
the earth your eyes saw my unformed body. All the
days ordained for me were written in your book
before one of them came to be." Psalm 139: 13-16 NIV

As a little boy I was captivated by my mother's knitting
machine. Kept behind a closed door and standing just
a little taller than tippy-toe height, it had moving
parts and sounded like a locomotive. It comprised all
the magical properties that struck wonderment in a
little boy's mind. Now and then I was allowed to sit on
my mother's lap and drive, steering the carriage back
and forth, going faster and faster, until my mother's
bridling hand steadied by enthusiasm.

So on occasion, when the weaver's watchful eye was
distracted, diverted by a visitor at the front door or
ringing telephone, I would seize my moment, climb up
into the driver's seat, thinking "I will drive this
thing all by myself!" Little fingers set about changing
tension levels, dropping rows of stitches and unravelling
a day's work.

It's easy to think sometimes that God's watchful eye was
distracted when it came to making us. He may have
dropped a stitch or two. After all, most days we don't
feel that wonderfully made, do we? Our tension seems
out, we feel stretched and our colours look faded. Some
of us may feel unravelled beyond any recognisable form,
feeling God should simply unpick the stitches, roll up
the yarn and start over.

In  "The Loom of Time" an unknown poet poignantly described
God's purpose and design in using the "darker threads" when
weaving the pattern of our lives. Consider the last
verses of this poem.

"Not till each loom is silent,
And the shuttles cease to fly,
Shall God reveal the pattern
And explain the reason why.

The dark threads were as needful
In the weaver's skillful hand
As the threads of gold and silver
For the pattern which He planned"
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Richard Erber lives in Sydney, Australia. By accounts he is
all grown up now. But when it comes to understanding the
"darker threads" of his life, he still feels like a small
child straining on tippy-toes to catch sight of the Weaver's
wonderful work– a work that he shall one day be grown up
enough to fully appreciate.
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TODAY'S TIDBIT:

   Have you felt called to write? Please read our

   writer's guidelines for HopeKeepers Magazine at

   http://www.restministries.org/admin-writersguide.pdf

   or learn more about Rest Ministries writer's resources

   http://www.restministries.org/pro-writers.htm



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TODAY'S TALKBACK:

   PLEASE ANSWER!

   "If I was to encourage someone who had just been diagnosed

   with a chronic illness my best advice would be: __________."

   Send your response to: rest@...

   or just hit 'reply.' Please include your name, illness,

   & city/state.



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TODAY'S EVENT:

   HOPEKEEPERS Online Group Meets Today

   We are currently going through a

   compilation of Max Lucado devotionals

   For more information on joining see:

   http://www.restministries.org/pro-hkonline.htm



TIME:    1 p.m. Pacific, USA

PLACE:   http://www.restministries.org/pro-chat.htm

"For I am the LORD, your God, who takes hold of
your right hand and says to you, Do not fear;
I will help you". (Isaiah 41:13)


Hello Again.  I need some help today. I mean I
always need help but today more than usual.  I
am sitting in my allergist's office waiting for
my appointment. I have to ask the doctor why,
in one month, these allergies have not gotten
much better.  I did everything he said, but still
I am plagued with rashes and flu-like symptoms. I
feel as if I am allergic to the planet!  On top
of the pain and fatigue I fight everyday, along
with various other ailments, I now have to deal
with these allergies. Just something else added
to the list. Take a deep breath…

We will be moving soon too, as you know.  Your
blessings have given us a new start in life.
However, the thoughts of moving, which at one
time would have made me ecstatic, now overwhelm
me. The fatigue has me feeling like I am going
uphill in quicksand. Even "enjoyable" things my
mind and body perceive as stress.  I am really
tired of fighting to get through each day
without crawling back into bed two hours after
waking.  I feel weak and sad today. I feel
overwhelmed with a capital "O" and it is making
  me feel anger.  Take a deep breath…

LORD, I don't want to misdirect my feelings at
others. I am just always fighting. What do I get
from all this fighting? Staying awake for the day?
Doing one load of laundry? These do not seem
like much of an accomplishment. Just seems like
a waste of time, a waste of energy.  All I have
to show for it is me standing on my two feet?
If I am going through this LORD I know it is
because you think I am strong enough and You
want me to grow from this. I thank you for that.
I just wish I could know why. Take a deep breath…

I pray to feel excitement about the future. Help
me today Jesus to see the Light through the
darkness.

-Your Child Forever

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Kelly Ehrhardt lives with her husband, a Pastor
and her 4 cats. She suffers from Chronic Fatigue
Syndrome and Fibromyalgia. She enjoys being creative
and likes making jewelry. She puts all her faith
in Jesus and wants to help others in need.

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TODAY'S TIDBIT:
HAVE YOU READ OUR NEW "HopeKeepers" MAGAZINE?
   Please let us know what you liked, what you'd want
   to have changed, and any testimonial about the
   magazine that we can share with others to
   encourage them.
   You can read past issues right here:
   http://www.restministries.org/HK_mag/01_02_2004/about.htm

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TODAY'S TALKBACK:
   When I get to heaven something I will do that
   I can't do now, because of my illness is: __________.
   Send your response to: rest@...
   or just hit 'reply.' Please include your name, illness,
   & city/state.

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TODAY'S EVENT:
   None scheduled
   Drop by our chat room any time.
   http://www.restministries.org/pro-chat.htm

Come and join us for ...
"A TIME OF REFRESHMENT"

Each Wednesday at 11:00 a.m. Pacific time (2:00 pm
Eastern), come to the Rest Ministries chat room (see
"how-to enter" below) for an enjoyable & friendly hour
where guest speakers share their insights on a particular
topic of interest, followed by a discussion and a chance
for you to ask questions of the guest speaker.  We want
you to find something that will help you along in your
daily journey with chronic illness or pain.  Plus you can
be encouraged by how others may be dealing with their
challenges.

THIS WEDNESDAY'S GUEST:  On April 27th come and
meet ROBIN JACKSON who will talk about If You're Out
of Hope I'll Lend You Mine!  How Jesus carried, healed
and restored  her through a time of suffering.

In 2001 Robin had to leave a rewarding job in the
corporate world due to a disabling spinal injury.  Because
of her relationship with Jesus that can only be called
transformational, Robin chose to start rebuilding her
career as a writer.

Robin Jackson is loved by her readers for her candour
and earthy humour.  She tells it like it is – in ways many
Christians don't dare articulate.  By giving voice to the
reality of suffering and the promise of mercy, readers
hear their own thoughts reflected in a voice they instantly
recognize as their own.

UPCOMING GUESTS:  Check out our other upcoming
guests and their web sites and information by going to
www.restministries.org/pro-refresh.htm

TRANSCRIPTS for previous chat sessions are available
at www.restministries.org/pro-chattranscripts.htm just
click on the link word "Trans" next to the name of the
person you want a transcript of.

QUESTIONS OR SUGGESTIONS?  Please contact me at
cpage@... with any questions, comments,
or suggestions for topics you are interested in
for the chat sessions.

SMALL PRINT IN THE CHAT WINDOW - Do you have a
hard time seeing the small print in the chat room?  You
can make it larger by doing the following once you are in
the chat room.  Click on the little icon to the right of the
little music notes icon at the bottom.  Once that opens up
(it may take a minute) click on the tab for Font and then
under font size select "Large" or Extra Large".

CHAT ROOM ETIQUETTE: These Wednesday chat
sessions are different from other chat rooms you may
frequent where several people chat with each other about
their personal lives.  In these special Wednesday chat
sessions, please keep in mind that the guest speaker is
the focal point of the whole hour.  It would therefore be
inconsiderate to talk when she is talking or to deviate
from the topic she is speaking on.  Any comments or
questions you are invited to make should stay on the
guest speaker's topic.  So if you have personal
comments or conversations you want with anyone please
leave it until after the chat session is finished or send a
private message.  To do that simply click on the name of
the person you want to chat with from the list of names at
the left and then click on Private, at the bottom of the list,
and a private chat window will open.  The main chat
window remains open at the same time.  You are also
welcome to join in social chatting on Thursdays at 3 p.m.
or just drop in any other time to see if anyone else might
be there to chat with.

TO GET TO THE CHAT ROOM:  Go to
www.restministries.org/pro-chat.htm and type in your
name in the box and click on "Connect".  (It may take a
few minutes to load the chat room window.)

HOW TO GET THERE ON TIME:  To make sure you get
to the Wednesday chat room at the right time (11:00 a.m.
Pacific, 1:00 p.m. Central, 2:00 p.m. Eastern), go to
www.worldtimeserver.com then find the time for
California, USA.  Check that time against your own time
and note the difference.  For example if your clock says
it's 6:00 p.m. and the time for California is 4:00 p.m., then
you are 2 hours ahead.  Therefore, in order to get to the
chat room time for 11:00 a.m. Pacific, you would need to
go there at 1:00 p.m. your time.

Look forward to meeting you there!

Carolann Page
Rest Ministries
A Time of Refreshment Chat Room Host

"And so after waiting patiently, Abraham
received what was promised." (Hebrews 6:15 NIV)

Abraham endured testing and made mistakes,
but He trusted God and  received
what God had promised him. Patience produces
perseverance. Hebrews 10:36 says, "You need
perseverance so that when you have done the
will of God, you will receive what He has  promised."

God has a wonderful way of providing examples.
A few years ago I ordered tulip bulbs. Time passed.
They were delivered in November when the ground was
frozen. The wise thing to do would have been to wait
until the next year to plant them.  Instead I dropped
them in a small trench by the satellite dish. They were
not planted at the correct depth or spaced  properly.
Each year despite that they grow and multiple.
It never fails the plants start to peek through
the ground and they get buried with snow.
One year they had just flowered when we received
a late snowstorm.  They were completely covered.
When the snow melted the flowers were still intact!

The Lord taught me a lot through those tulips.
They were not planted properly, and they faced
adverse conditions. Yet each year they
prosper and grow. They could have withered
and died. But they are tough little plants and
they bloom where I planted them.

When my body aches, when I am tired and I
can't hardly get out of bed, the Lord reminds
me of those tulips.  He wants to develop the
same characteristics in me.  He wants me to
trust Him that He has control of my life.  I may
not like it or understand it, but He has a plan
and a purpose for it.  God is just and He is fair
and He wants us to become more like His Son.
James 1:4 says, "Perseverance must finish its
work so that you may be mature and complete,
lacking anything."  Adversity helps us to grow,
develops our character and it draws us closer to Him.
He who promised is faithful. Like Abraham we will
receive His promise if we persevere.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
About the Author:

Sheree Murphy lives with her husband and 3
large dogs in a rural community in the U.S.

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TODAY'S TIDBIT:
   Wondering what is new at Rest Ministries resources?
   You can find out in just 1 click!
   http://www.restministries.org/comfortzone/cat2_1.htm

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TODAY'S TALKBACK:
   What is your greatest indulgence you're embaressed to admit?
   We can't wait to hear!
   Send your response to: rest@...
   or just hit 'reply.' Please include your name, illness,
   & city/state.

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TODAY'S EVENT:
   None scheduled
   Drop by our chat room any time.
   http://www.restministries.org/pro-chat.htm

Things are a bit bumpy right now. The surgery went well and I am
recovering well - I am just a bit tired. But, the doctor did not
like some findings on friday and ordered an immediate CT Scan for
tuesday. I have to take meds starting on Monday to help the possible
reactions I may have to the contrast solution - but I could get sick
from the medications. The doctor is wanting to see if I have
lymphoma. There is also another diagnostic test on FEb. 23. I just
keep praying for the Lord's will and for his comfort and strength -
I am finding that I am re-reading my own devotionals and other
devotionals from Rest Ministries to help me get through all of this.



I am very thankful to Rest Ministries for allowing me to write and
for the devotionals that are put through on the daily devotional -
people's responses have been a blessing to me. Thank you!



Bonnie Hall



Here are the two devotionals



Devotional One

"I am always with you; You hold me by my
right hand." (Psalm 73:23)

"He reached down from on high and took
hold of me." (Psalm 18:16)



When trying something new, a child will venture
out just so far and then turn around and check
to see if his parents are still there watching.
Repeatedly the child will do this, sometimes
going farther away each time but always returning
to his parents.

At times, the child will not go very far, will
return to his parents, take one of their hands
and then together they will venture out. Now
the child has the support and the feeling of
security from his parent's hand that he needs
so he will keep trying.

Other times, as the child tries something, he
may stumble; and as soon as he does, the parents
are right there by his side, taking ahold of
him so he is able to continue on.

Isn't this also true of our LORD God, our Father?
He is always watching us, no matter how far away
we may go. When we turn to look for Him, there
He is. And when we stumble, He is holding us so
we can go on.


Father, thank You for the reassurance that as I
go through each day You are watching me. No
matter how far away I go, I know when I turn that
You will still be there. Father, thank You for
all those times I realize You are holding me when
I stumble. In Jesus' name. Amen.

___________________________________________

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Bonnie Hall lives in Upland, IN., with her husband
and sons. She has been diagnosed with Celiac Sprue,
Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue, and Arthritis.

Bonnie's web page is:

http://www.geocities.com/his_strength_i_need/index.html

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TODAY'S TIDBIT:

   Wake up each morning with a reminder that you always
   have hope! Have coffee out of your HopeKeepers Mug and
   then pills out of our pillbox. It's a great way to
   remember to send up a few prayers for our ministry too.
   We thank you for them in advance!

   http://www.restministries.org/comfortzone/Cat6_1.htm



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TODAY'S TALKBACK:

   What is your favorite SUMMER TREAT? (anything from ice
   cream to coconut smelling sunscreen-- share whatever comes
   to mind!)

   Send your response to: rest@...
   or just hit 'reply.' Please include your name, illness,
   & city/state.



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TODAY'S EVENT:

   None scheduled.

   Drop by our chat room any time.

   http://www.restministries.org/pro-chat.htm

"Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed,
for His compassions never fail. They are new every
morning; great is Your faithfulness."
Lamentations 3:22-23 NIV

How long has it been since you have had a day without
pain?  For many of us the pain continues with no relief
in sight.  Why is this happening?  Who can help?  If
pain leaves, we often forget, but when chronic
symptoms persist, we wilt and lie helpless.

The Psalmist struggles under affliction and cries out,
"O Lord, heal me!"  He adds, "I am worn out from
groaning; all night long I flood my bed with weeping
and drench my couch with tears" (Psalm 6:6). There seems
to be no easy answer for the problem of pain.  No help
from philosophical answers about the inevitability of
pain or the beneficial results of maturing through
pain. Like the psalmist, we turn to God in our
despair.  We ask for healing, for relief, for strength.
God understand and can help.  Later the psalmist
exclaims, "The LORD has heard my cry for mercy; the
LORD accepts my prayer" (Psalm 6:9)

But most of all, we can focus on God's Son. Jesus became
man and experienced pain for us.  His pain was almost
unbearable when beaten and when nails went through His
hands and feet.  There were the hours of tortured
breathing on the cross.  In the process, He conquered
sin and death.  We may be in pain now, but God heals,
soothes, and gives us strength.  Jesus arose and will
come again to take us to eternal life where there will
be no more pain.  What comfort there is in being
assured of this!

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

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Patricia Armstrong lives in Virginia Beach, VA., with
her husband, Richard. Patricia is a retired elementary
school teacher who thanks God for the joy in her life,
which comes from knowing He will always be faithful.
Patricia enjoys her Chronic Pain and Illness Support
Group, church activities, camping, reading and gardening.
She prays that all those who are suffering with pain and
illness will know the real joy that comes from being a
child of God.
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TODAY'S TIDBIT:

   We've had some amazing chat guests during our weekly
   "Time of Refreshment" each Wednesday. But you don't
   have to miss out. We have all the transcripts.
   Includes chat guests photos and topics:

   http://www.restministries.org/pro-chattranscripts.htm



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TODAY'S TALKBACK:

   When you are up in the middle of the night and can't sleep,
   what do you raid your fridge or cupboards for?

   Send your response to: rest@...
   or just hit 'reply.' Please include your name, illness,
   & city/state.



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TODAY'S EVENT:

   HOPEKEEPERS Online Group Meets Tonight
   We are currently going through a
   compilation of Max Lucado devotionals
   For more information on joining see:

   http://www.restministries.org/pro-hkonline.htm


TIME:    5 p.m. Pacific, USA

PLACE:   http://www.restministries.org/pro-chat.htm

Jesus replied, "If anyone loves Me, he will obey my teaching.
My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our
home with him. He who does not love me will not obey My teaching.
These words you hear are not My own; they belong to the Father
who sent Me." (John 14:23 & 24 NIV)

Following Gods will.... what does this all mean?
We all have heard pastors and evangelists speak on Gods will, but
what is God's perfect will for our individual life? We may say...
God I
can follow Your will but how can I do that when I am so very sick
every
day and not able to get out much? How can I be in Your will when I
am
in constant pain?

Did you know that what is God's will for your life may not be His
will for
your next door neighbor or even your husband or best friend?

God knows what we are going through. He has a plan and destiny for
each of us individually. All we need to do is seek Him in our heart
and
spirit.

I have learned in the past many years in ministry that just because
someone tells me what they " think"  is God's will for my life, that
it may
not line up with what God truly has for me. If God hasn't spoken to
your
heart first... then pray about it before you jump into believing
what
someone has told you. They may very well be well meaning but may
not have it right.

Just because we are not able to get out, and some not even well
enough
to go to church regularly, doesn't mean that we are out of God's
will. Let
us be imaginative and think of ways we can love and serve God within
His perfect will for us right where we are in our life situation and
time.

God doesn't care if you are unable to get out, or even bedfast. He
has a
special and unique plan just for you alone right where you are. Let
us all
seek His plan for our lives in the name of precious Jesus.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Nancy Dittert (Aka~ Nancie-rose) lives in a berm home in
Central Iowa with her wonderful hubby Patrick, 2 cats
and 2 Lab/Sharpei dogs. Nancy & Patrick are both retired
pastors, retiring early because of illness. Nancy lives with
Severe Fibromyalgia, Neuropathy,& is HLA-B27 positive and
her husband had a brain tumor that left him disabled.They
are still actively involved in Prayer and Chronic Pain Support
Ministry through the Internet and Public Access TV. Check
out Nancy's Chronic/Pain Web Ministry page at...
http://fibromyalgiahelp.homestead.com

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TODAY'S TIDBIT:

   Did you know we have all kind of goodies for your

   HopeKeepers Group, or even just to be a part of it

   all. Balloons, cups, pens, stickers, mugs and more!

   http://www.restministries.org/comfortzone/Cat6_1.htm



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TODAY'S TALKBACK:

   Share your answer with us: "The nicest thing someone

   ever did for me was _______________."

   Send your response to: rest@...

   or just hit 'reply.' Please include your name, illness,

   & city/state.



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TODAY'S EVENT:

"A Time of Refreshment Chat"



TIME:    11 a.m. Pacific, USA

PLACE:   http://www.restministries.org/pro-chat.htm



Meet Janine Ridings, who will talk on "The Chemical

Connection to Chronic Illness." After being chemically

injured in 1998, Janine'x life came to an abrupt halt

and became housebound. She started ministering in any

way she could from her home. Her Aroma of Christ Ministry

helps and supports believers who cannot participate

in a traditional church settings due to the limitations

of chemical sensitivity. She has a wonderful new devotional

book out too.

"A man is a slave to whatever has mastered him"
(2 Peter 2:19b, NIV).


Dr. Albert Schweitzer called pain "a terrible lord"
and devoted his entire life to eradicating it.
He was speaking specifically of physical pain, but
emotional and spiritual pain can enslave us, too,
dictating how we think and act.

At one point, pain and its accompanying emotions of
fear, anxiety, anger, hopelessness, and grief
mastered me and took control of my life.  I followed
their every command helplessly and I was miserable.

Christian singer Carmen sings a song called "LORD of
all."  The lyrics state simply that Jesus Christ is
LORD over everything.  I realized that pain and those
wearying emotions that stemmed from it didn't have
the right to govern my life. Jesus should be in
charge, not them.

Realizing this was one thing; applying the knowledge
was quite another.  It was a fierce battle.  Every
time fear would grip me, I would immediately start
praying.  I'd ask the LORD to remove my anxiety and
give me His peace.  I'd ask him to help me fight the
feelings that were preventing me from being joyful.
I'd ask him to turn my negative thoughts to positive ones.

It was hard and exhausting work.  But I found that
learning to conquer those things that wanted to rule
and ruin my life was a matter of practice. It reminded me
of when I was a kid taking piano lessons.  I had to sit
at the instrument and play the same scales and the same
music over and over and over again until it got easier
and I mastered them all.  It was the same with my
feelings.  I had to work at committing them to Jesus
repeatedly until finally it got less difficult and I
had truly made Him Lord of my life.

Friends, if I can get to that point, so can you, because
it isn't anything special in me that allowed me to
conquer my emotions.  It was Jesus who empowered me
to do so and He's only too glad to help you do the same.



ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Mary Lou Cornish is grateful to have Jesus as Lord over
the fibromyalgia and chronic pain syndrome that once
dictated her life.  She lives in Canada.



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TODAY'S TIDBIT:

   Have you felt called to write? Please read our
   writer's guidelines for HopeKeepers Magazine at

   http://www.restministries.org/admin-writersguide.pdf
   or learn more about Rest Ministries writer's resources

   http://www.restministries.org/pro-writers.htm



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TODAY'S TALKBACK:

   Send us your favorite EASY recipe that others with
   chronic illness would appreciate

   Send your response to: rest@...
   or just hit 'reply.' Please include your name, illness,
   & city/state.



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TODAY'S EVENT:

   HOPEKEEPERS Online Group Meets Today
   We are currently going through a
   compilation of Max Lucado devotionals
   For more information on joining see:

   http://www.restministries.org/pro-hkonline.htm



TIME:    1 p.m. Pacific, USA

PLACE:   http://www.restministries.org/pro-chat.htm

"For in six days the LORD made the heavens and the
earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but He
rested on the seventh day. Therefore the LORD blessed
the Sabbath day and made it holy." ~ Exodus 20:11 NIV

Did you ever have a day so good you didn't want it to
end? Sunday morning used to be the most stressful day
of the week for me, but my perspective was different
yesterday, I suppose, as I considered how beautiful
it would be to be set free from a pain-filled body
and be in God's presence forever. I just let my mind
and heart stay in that mode of thought even after my
quiet time, through breakfast and into the ride to
church.

The worship time was unusually better than ever! The
message was on how God can use pain in our life to goad,
guide, guard, grow and gauge us.
(Nice, orderly alliteration.) And then my wife and I
were privileged to sing a duet for the first time in
a couple years. It felt wonderful to minister in that
way again. No one harmonizes like my precious princess
Dee.

After church, I noticed my pain level was unusually low.
The weather was perfect as birds sang and a soft
breeze wafted through the air. The sun shown in a blue
sky all afternoon long! Following lunch I napped a while
and awoke with my Mini Schnauzer by my side. Next, I
enjoyed some of the NASCAR race on TV. My wife and I went
out for a stroll around the block. I rode my fully charged
scooter while holding on to the Schnauzer's leash. Dee
walked beside me and we talked about how nice it is to
be living here and how God has blessed us so much lately.

Evening came too quickly after reading the paper and watching
my boy voluntarily clean the van's interior. We sat and
talked on the patio swing while moonlight and stars glowed
in a clear sky. And then there was time listening to good
70's hits and memory songs while I wrote some emails. Soon
it was bedtime and I didn't want the day to end!

"O LORD, I don't want this peace to end. Thank you for the
quiet reprieve from the stress of this world. I think that
is what you intended for my Sundays. Thank you for
thinking of us when you created this world in giving us
such a sweet gift from your heart of love."


About the Author:

Pastor Greg Harvey lives in Kansas City, Kansas with his
wife, sons and extra-special mother-in-law. He also lives
with Yahtzee-boy Schnauzer and a longhaired black kitten
named Boggle. Degenerative Disc Disease is his nemesis
and reminder to keep his trust in God. He may be reached
at gaharvey@...

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TODAY'S TIDBIT:

   "Why Can't I Make People Understand" Don't miss Rest

   Ministries' laest resource by founder, Lisa Copen.

   It's a great book to use as a small group study too.

   Just $10

   http://www.restministries.org/comfortzone/item2.htm



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TODAY'S TALKBACK:

   Our Invisible Illness Week theme this year is "Choose to

   THRIVE not just survive!" How do you choose to THRIVE?

   Send your response to: rest@...

   or just hit 'reply.' Please include your name, illness,

   & city/state.



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TODAY'S EVENT:

   None scheduled

Come and join us for ...
"A TIME OF REFRESHMENT"

Each Wednesday at 11:00 a.m. Pacific time (2:00 pm
Eastern), come to the Rest Ministries chat room (see
"how-to enter" below) for an enjoyable & friendly hour
where guest speakers share their insights on a particular
topic of interest, followed by a discussion and a chance
for you to ask questions of the guest speaker.  We want
you to find something that will help you along in your
daily journey with chronic illness or pain.  Plus you can
be encouraged by how others may be dealing with their
challenges.

WEDNESDAY'S GUEST:  On April 20th JANINE
RIDINGS will talk about the Chemical Connection to
Chronic Illness.  Researchers are beginning to see that
sometimes chemical exposures can worsen chronic
illness symptoms.  What kinds of chemicals are you
being exposed to?  How can you determine if your
symptoms are caused by chemical exposures?  Why is it
important to understand the chemical connection to
chronic illness?

These are just some of the questions that Janine will be
answering this Wednesday.  She has talked to many
people with Fibromyalgia, asthma, Parkinsons, MS and
other chronic illnesses who have experienced
improvements in their symptoms once they reduced the
chemical exposures in their lives.

After being chemically injured in 1998, Janine
Ridings' life came to an abrupt halt and became
housebound. She started ministering in any way
she could from her home.  Her Aroma of Christ
Ministry helps and supports believers who
cannot participate in a traditional church
settings due to the limitations of chemical
sensitivity, such as organizing "fragrance
free fellowship events".

Janine has a specially prepared handout which
you can get at
www.restministries.org/CHAT/handout_ridings.pdf

UPCOMING GUESTS:  Check out our other upcoming
guests and their web sites and information by going to
www.restministries.org/pro-refresh.htm

TRANSCRIPTS for previous chat sessions are available
at www.restministries.org/pro-chattranscripts.htm just
click on the link word "Trans" next to the name of the
person you want a transcript of.

QUESTIONS OR SUGGESTIONS?  Please contact me
at cpage@... with any questions, comments, or
suggestions for topics you are interested in for the chat
sessions.

SMALL PRINT IN THE CHAT WINDOW - Do you have a
hard time seeing the small print in the chat room?  You
can make it larger by doing the following once you are in
the chat room.  Click on the little icon to the right of the
little music notes icon at the bottom.  Once that opens up
(it may take a minute) click on the tab for Font and then
under font size select "Large" or Extra Large".

CHAT ROOM ETIQUETTE: These Wednesday chat
sessions are different from other chat rooms you may
frequent where several people chat with each other about
their personal lives.  In these special Wednesday chat
sessions, please keep in mind that the guest speaker is
the focal point of the whole hour.  It would therefore be
inconsiderate to talk when she is talking or to deviate
from the topic she is speaking on.  Any comments or
questions you are invited to make should stay on the
guest speaker's topic.  So if you have personal
comments or conversations you want with anyone please
leave it until after the chat session is finished or send a
private message.  To do that simply click on the name of
the person you want to chat with from the list of names at
the left and then click on Private, at the bottom of the list,
and a private chat window will open.  The main chat
window remains open at the same time.  You are also
welcome to join in social chatting on Thursdays at 3 p.m.
or just drop in any other time to see if anyone else might
be there to chat with.

TO GET TO THE CHAT ROOM:  Go to
www.restministries.org/pro-chat.htm and type in your
name in the box and click on "Connect".  (It may take a
few minutes to load the chat room window.)

HOW TO GET THERE ON TIME:  To make sure you get
to the Wednesday chat room at the right time (11:00 a.m.
Pacific, 1:00 p.m. Central, 2:00 p.m. Eastern), go to
www.worldtimeserver.com then find the time for
California, USA.  Check that time against your own time
and note the difference.  For example if your clock says
it's 6:00 p.m. and the time for California is 4:00 p.m., then
you are 2 hours ahead.  Therefore, in order to get to the
chat room time for 11:00 a.m. Pacific, you would need to
go there at 1:00 p.m. your time.

Look forward to meeting you there!

Carolann Page
Rest Ministries
A Time of Refreshment Chat Room Host

Joy in Emptiness
"Though the fig tree does not bud and there are
no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop
fails and the fields produce no food, though
there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in
the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the LORD. I
will be joyful in God my Savior."
Habakkuk 3:17-19 (NIV)

Two of the ladies in my Customer Service "group"
were more than employees, they were my friends.
It was a watershed time in my life and I was
experiencing empty nest syndrome, they continually
prayed for me and with me.  We shared laughter
and tears over lunch, we chatted on our breaks,
we often left late because we talking.  Then I
was alone, spending hours watching television and
feeling sorry for myself, resting on my sofa
because of my illness.  I spent my time blaming
God for my circumstance and my loneliness.
The ring of the telephone brought a smile to my
heart because my children, my family, and my friends
were with me for a minute or two.  Then I was
alone again because every one else was "busy."

I tried to read but it hurt to hold a book, music
(long a vessel of worship in my life) put me to
sleep and daytime television is not only boring but
depressing.  Questions rambled through my already
affected mind; "why has God done this to me" and
"what did I do to deserve this."

Then, while thumbing through my Bible looking for
non-existent answers to those questions, a long ago
highlighted verse caught my attention.  I looked at
my four year old note, "in the midst of emptiness
and desolation Habakkuk found his joy in His God.
"Wasn't I there?  Where was my joy?" Between cleansing
sobs and comforting revelations, I found joy in
MY God.  God hadn't left me alone, He hadn't left me
at all!

The music in my heart was beautiful again, "He was
there all the time, He was there all the time, Waiting
patiently in line, He was there all the time." Slowly,
I've learned that He can fill my heart with joy in all
circumstances and that He will always be my Best Friend!!
 	 © Words by Gary Paxton




ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Eleanor Gale lives in southern New Jersey with two feline
housemates; Guinan and Ragamuffin. The eldest of six
children from a close Christian family (40 members /
4 generations country wide), her two children, their
spouses and her two grandchildren are her greatest joys
in life. Although she suffers from Chronic Lyme Disease,
IBS, and Fibromyalgia – she serves God as He calls her,
where He calls her, when He calls her – all in His poweR
and strength. Her web site is under construction.

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TODAY'S TIDBIT:

   SPECIAL BUY on Joni Eareckson Tada's New Book!

   Save $6 on "The God I Love" It takes a special

   look at her life, her ministry and her amazing

   relationship with God. Hardcover book, very nice.

   http://www.restministries.org/comfortzone/item123.htm



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TODAY'S TALKBACK:

   "I've always wanted to _______ but I felt like my illness

   held me back." Send us your response!

   Send your response to: rest@...

   or just hit 'reply.' Please include your name, illness,

   & city/state.



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TODAY'S EVENT:

   None scheduled

   Drop by our chat room any time.

   http://www.restministries.org/pro-chat.htm

"For if you forgive men when they sin against you,
your heavenly Father will also forgive you.  But
if you do not forgive men their sins, your
Father will not forgive your sins.
(Matthew 6:14-15 NIV)"


LORD what can I do
that I haven't already done?
You know some people hurt me
but I'm not the only one,
to be despised and ridiculed
for this life I live alone,
this solitary life of pain,
emotional and physical.
It causes me such awful strain,
with symptoms almost quizzical.
You know LORD the things they say,
these people are supposed to love!
You know LORD it's
friends and family most
that causes so much crud.
It's not always things they say,
or things they always do,
often times its the nothingness
that eats me through and through.
God do you understand me?
Am I really getting through?
How much pain these people cause,
they make my heart so blue!

Yes child I always hear you,
every single word you speak,
I listen to you intently,
every hour of every week.
I see all your hurt and pain,
I'm healing you each moment
as my promises you claim.
But I also need you to listen,
listen closely to what I say,
those people who have hurt you
I love them too, always.
I know that you are hurting
from the things they do and say,
but I need you to remember
before you come to me each day.
Once you gave your life,
on your knees you did pray,
asking me to forgive you for
the sins you could not pay.
I have done this for you,
I will continue to each day,
but I also ask that you do the same
for those who cause your fray.

Julie Munro 2nd August 2003


*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Julie Munro is a solo mum living in New Zealand.
Julie deals with the effects of Chronic illness with a
sense of humor.  And is daily learning to place her
trust in God.
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TODAY'S TIDBIT:

   NEW BOOKS! Did you know you can find out what we have new with
   just one click?

   http://www.restministries.org/comfortzone/cat2_1.htm

   BETTER YET! wHAT do we have that is $4.99 or under?

   http://www.restministries.org/comfortzone/cat14_1.htm



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TODAY'S TALKBACK:

   How do you celebrate your "sense of adventure?" Send us your
   silly ways, whether it's a triple espresso, driving over 45 mph
   or bright red nail polish. We want to hear them!
   Send your response to: rest@...
   or just hit 'reply.' Please include your name, illness,
   & city/state.



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TODAY'S EVENT:

   Can't make it to church? Join Rest Ministries' founder
   Lisa Copen at hers for a live broadcast via the internet.
   All services are also archived. Entire service is live,
   including an amazing worship time. Maranatha Chapel is
   part of Calvary Chapel.

   http://www.maranathachapel.org/media2/livecast.php

"You have made known to me the path of life;
You will fill me with joy in Your presence, with
eternal pleasures at Your right hand." Psalm 16:11 NIV

I was born right handed but my right hand does not
cooperate with me now because of severe tendonitis
and arthritis in my elbow. I can rarely pick up
even moderately heavy items with just my right hand;
I need my left hand to help out. I have been using
my left hand so much, in fact, that I am turning
into a "lefty."

Many years ago it was difficult to be left-handed
because most tools and implements were made for
right-handed folks. But these days you can find just
about anything needed to do a chore with your left
hand. What a joy that must be for people who have
struggled with this for so long!

In the same way, God provides a way for us to manage
when our bodies are in pain and not working right.
Maybe, like me, one of your arms or legs is in major
pain, but you may still be able to use the other
limb to get the job done. Were you a jogger at one
time? Were there days in the past when you felt
incomplete without some task to fill every hour of
the day?

Take heart, beloved. No matter what season of life
we're in, there are still things we can do in
spite of our pain. If you have trouble walking
because of arthritic knees, you can probably manage
to read a story to one of your children or
grandchildren while sitting in your favorite comfy
chair. If you had to stop handwriting encouragement
notes because your hands are in too much pain, you
can still continue your encouragement ministry by
typing short, cheerful e-mails to others.

Even though our bodies may fail us, we have the
assurance of knowing that God is always at our right
hand. As we struggle to get through our days, we can
still find the joy of God's presence in our lives by
keeping our eyes focused on Him instead of our own
pain.


~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Anna Popescu lives with Fibromyalgia and several other
chronic illnesses and is thankful for the joy of God's
presence in her life. She is the author of the
Christian contemporary novel, A Little Bit of Wonderful,
as well as articles and devotionals in several
publications. Anna lives in northern Arizona with her
husband, Rick, and their Sheltie named Bleu. Anna enjoys
visitors to her Web sites: http://www.annapopescu.com
and http://thereadywriter.blogspot.com.


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TODAY'S TIDBIT:

   Are you a man who lives with chronic illness?

   We've got great ways to fellowship with other men

   and share encouragement.

   http://www.restministries.org/pro-justmen.htm



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TODAY'S TALKBACK:

   How could you be a better friend? Reveal those weaknesses

   that you'd like to improve. You're not alone!

   Send your response to: rest@...

   or just hit 'reply.' Please include your name, illness,

   & city/state.



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TODAY'S EVENT:

   None scheduled

   Drop by our chat room any time.

   http://www.restministries.org/pro-chat.htm

Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the
everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the
earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and His
understanding no one can fathom," (Isaiah 40:28)


"Oh, not again," I think when my legs give out. "I
can't take one more day of this," I think when I get
another headache that my pain medicine doesn't help.
My body is so weak and imperfect." Everyday I am
reminded of what it cannot do. Just when I think I
can't go on and start reveling in another pity-party,
something always reminds me to look up rather than
inward. My daughter will come to me for a heat-to-heart
talk, my husband will give me an unexpected hug, I'll
see a goldfinch at the birdfeeder, or get an email
from a friend.

God has a way of never letting me forget that no, I
can't handle this, but He can. When I feel stuck at
home and alone, He is with me. He understands. He
gives me just enough strength each day to do what He
requires of me. Sometimes I want to give up, but He
never does. And His strength is sufficient for me.

My daughter made a bookmarker for me in Sunday school
many years ago. I keep it in my Bible to mark this
verse- actually, all of chapter 40. It is a source of
so much comfort. When God gave these words to Isaiah
almost 3,000 years ago, He knew even then that one day
I would read them, and they would calm my anxious
spirit. God always knows what I need and makes sure I
  have it. I am filled with hope that the day will come
when I, too, will "soar on wings like eagles; (I) will
  run and not grow weary, (I) will walk and not be faint.
(Isaiah 40:31)

"I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength,
that he considered me faithful, appointing me to His
service, (1 Timothy 1:12)

-----------------------------------------------------

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Michelle Howard is a wife and mother of two teenaged
daughters. She is trying to overcome pity-parties by
reading the Bible more consistently. She has yet to
give up chocolate.
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TODAY'S TIDBIT:

   "Why Can't I Make People Understand" Don't miss Rest
   Ministries' laest resource by founder, Lisa Copen.
   It's a great book to use as a small group study too.
   Just $10

   http://www.restministries.org/comfortzone/item2.htm



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TODAY'S TALKBACK:

   We're looking for people who climbed out of debt
   while living with a chronic illness to share their story!
   Send your response to: rest@...
   or just hit 'reply.' Please include your name, illness,
   &city/state.



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TODAY'S EVENT:

   HOPEKEEPERS Online Group Meets Tonight
   We are currently going through a
   compilation of Max Lucado devotionals
   For more information on joining see:

   http://www.restministries.org/pro-hkonline.htm



TIME:    5 p.m. Pacific, USA

PLACE:   http://www.restministries.org/pro-chat.htm

"Now the Bereans were of more noble character than the
Thessalonians, for they received the message with great
eagerness and examined the scriptures every day to
see if what Paul said was true. (Acts 17:11 NIV)"



Being chronically ill, physically or mentally, can
and often does, draw you closer to GOD.  Through JESUS'
message of forgiveness, grace and hope we see our
weakness as His strength.

Often times, though, our weakness can make us vulnerable
to "Thessalonians".  Those who know the truth but use
it to their own advantage.  Even today we have "teachers"
who know the truth, but package it in such a way that
it's deceiftulness is difficult to discern.

No matter what our state of health is.  No matter what
our testimony is.  No matter what our depth of
knowledge of scripture is, we are to be obedient to
the truth.  We are called to "do not believe every
spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are
from GOD, because many false prophets have gone out
into the world" (1John 4:1 NIV)

Today, more than ever, we need to be aware of the people
we are being taught by.  You may have known a teacher
for many years listened to and trusted his/her teaching
but you are still called to check whether or not they are
telling you the truth.  Going back to GOD'S Word, testing
the spirits, making sure scripture is being preached to
glorify GOD and to do His work, not glorifying the
preacher/teacher and lining his/her pocket book with the
proceeds from their knowledge being sold as Biblical.



We are ALL answerable to GOD for our lives, including
those teachers/preachers who either teach the truth or
twist it.  Be a Berean, test what you are being taught,
ask the Holy Spirit to show you the truth.  Don't let
popularity, peer pressure or the need to fit in, draw
you into a "faith culture" that will eventually
separate you from GOD'S truth.



*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Julie Munro is a solo mum who lives in New Zealand.
Julie has struggled with life, illness and faith
through the years but has done her best to hold onto
the unchanging, ever present, grace and mercy of her
Loving Heavenly Father.  Daily taking her struggles
and trials to the only one who understands, JESUS,
what a wonderful name.

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TODAY'S TIDBIT:

   Have you considered starting a HopeKeepers Group?
   Download the information packet or email us your
   postal address if you have any problems.

http://www.restministries.org/HK/2004_HKinfo_packet.zip
   (choose "save" and then unzip)



   Read more on our HK leader Message Boards too

   http://www.restministries.org/pro-hopekeepers.htm



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TODAY'S TALKBACK:

   What finally motivated you to exercise? What form
   of exercise do you do?

   Send your response to: rest@...
   or just hit 'reply.' Please include your name, illness,
   & city/state.



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TODAY'S EVENT:



"A Time of Refreshment Chat"

TIME:    11 a.m. Pacific, USA

PLACE:   http://www.restministries.org/pro-chat.htm



Join us for chat on the topic of "Coping With Chronic Pain"
with special guest Ruth Miller. Ruth worked as a registered
nurse for 25 years, and then developed a disorder known as
Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD) after a knee injury.
In her book "Lessons From the Washing Machine," she discusses
the diagnosis, treatments, coping with excruciating pain,
and dealing with the losses associated with RSD. She
also talks about the effects chronic pain has had on
her faith in God and her marriage.
Join us!

"Therefore Jesus said again, 'I tell you the truth,
I am the gate for the sheep. All who ever came
before me were thieves and robbers, but the sheep
did not listen to them. I am the gate; whoever
enters through me will be saved. He will come in
and go out, and find pasture. The thief comes
only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come
that they may have life, and have it to the full.
I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays
down his life for the sheep.'" (John 10:7-11 NIV)

Many times in our lives we have to deal with
non-christians. Either in the work place, family
members or even our own children and parents. It
can be hard at times because our flesh wants to
do as they do. Join in the gossip and thinking of
only ourselves and what is best for "me". However,
when you are a sheep of "The" shepherd and have
the Holy Spirit guiding you things are different.
The Holy Spirit taps you on the shoulder or
whispers in your ear that you are not of this
world, so stop acting like it.

I am in a situation where I have to interact
constantly with my family and all of them are
non-christians. There is also a lot of passed hurts
that are coming up. I saw that initially I was
getting upset with them and listening to their
gossip and tearing down of others. So quickly the
Holy Spirit got a hold of me and told me what to do.
I forgave all that had hurt me. I looked at the
rumors of others and saw that many were fabricated
and were things that someone had done almost 10 years
prior.

I heard Him call me, my Shepherd, so that I might not
go astray. I listened to that voice over all the others.
It was amazing how I did not have to try to forgive or
do what Jesus would want me to do. It came natural.
What a blessing!

As we all know through trial we learn perseverance. We
also see where we were and how far the Lord has taken
us and have confidence in going even further.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Kelly Ehrhardt lives with her husband, a Pastor, and
her 4 cats. She suffers from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
and Fibromyalgia. She enjoys being creative and likes
making jewelry. She puts all her faith in the LORD
and wants to help others in need.
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TODAY'S TIDBIT:

   How have you shared about your illness with your kids?
   Here's a great article with some tips and ideas.

   http://www.restministries.org/ARTICLES/art-explainingtokids.htm



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TODAY'S TALKBACK:

   HOW HAVE YOU shared about your illness with your kids? We
   want to know! Send us your experience and their reaction.
   Send your response to: rest@...
   or just hit 'reply.' Please include your name, illness,
   & city/state.



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TODAY'S EVENT:

   None scheduled
   Drop by our chat room any time.

   http://www.restministries.org/pro-chat.htm

Come and join us for ...
"A TIME OF REFRESHMENT"

Each Wednesday at 11:00 a.m. Pacific time (2:00 pm
Eastern), please come to the Rest Ministries chat room
(see "how-to enter" below) for an enjoyable & friendly
hour where guest speakers share their insights on a
particular topic of interest, followed by a discussion and a
chance for you to ask questions of the guest speaker.
We want you to find something that will help you along in
your daily journey with chronic illness or pain.  Plus you
can be encouraged by how others may be dealing with
their challenges.

DOES PAIN OR ILLNESS MAKE YOU ANGRY AT GOD
SOMETIMES?  On April 13th come and meet our guest
RUTH MILLER because she has had the same
experiences.

Ruth Miller, a resgistered nurse for 25 years, developed a
disorder known as Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD)
after a knee injury.  She will discuss the diagnosis, treatments,
coping with excruciating pain, and dealing with the losses
associated with RSD.

In her words, "How does one hang on? I do not have a magic
formula or any healing powers. It is a process – a long distance
journey. I take every second as it comes. Some pray to make it
through a day at a time. I pray to make it through one second at
a time. I found some things that are helpful for me. "  Come
this Wednesday and find out what they are.

Ruth has a specially prepared handout which you can get
at www.restministries.org/CHAT/handout_miller.pdf

UPCOMING GUESTS:  Check out our other upcoming
guests and their web sites and information by going to
www.restministries.org/pro-refresh.htm

TRANSCRIPTS for previous chat sessions are available
at www.restministries.org/pro-chattranscripts.htm just
click on the link word "Trans" next to the name of the
person you want a transcript of.  For last week's
transcript of Carmen Leal's session go to
www.restministries.org/CHAT/trans_leal.htm

QUESTIONS OR SUGGESTIONS?  Please contact me
at cpage@... with any questions, comments, or
suggestions for topics you are interested in for the chat
sessions.

CHAT ROOM ETIQUETTE: These Wednesday chat
sessions are different from other chat rooms you may
frequent where several people chat with each other about
their personal lives.  In these special Wednesday chat
sessions, please keep in mind that the guest speaker is
the focal point of the whole hour.  It would therefore be
inconsiderate to talk when she is talking or to deviate
from the topic she is speaking on.  Any comments or
questions you are invited to make should stay on the
guest speaker's topic.  So if you have personal
comments or conversations you want with anyone please
leave it until after the chat session is finished or send a
private message.  To do that simply click on the name of
the person you want to chat with from the list of names at
the left and then click on Private, at the bottom of the list,
and a private chat window will open.  The main chat
window remains open at the same time.  You are also
welcome to join in social chatting on Thursdays at 3 p.m.
or just drop in any other time to see if anyone else might
be there to chat with.

TO GET TO THE CHAT ROOM:  Go to
www.restministries.org/pro-chat.htm and type in your
name in the box and click on "Connect".  (It may take a
few minutes to load the chat room window.)

HOW TO GET THERE ON TIME:  To make sure you get
to the Wednesday chat room at the right time (11:00 a.m.
Pacific, 1:00 p.m. Central, 2:00 p.m. Eastern), go to
www.worldtimeserver.com then find the time for
California, USA.  Check that time against your own time
and note the difference.  For example if your clock says
it's 6:00 p.m. and the time for California is 4:00 p.m., then
you are 2 hours ahead.  Therefore, in order to get to the
chat room time for 11:00 a.m. Pacific, you would need to
go there at 1:00 p.m. your time.

Look forward to meeting you there!

Carolann Page
Rest Ministries
A Time of Refreshment Chat Room Host

"That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses,
in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in
difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong."
2 Corinthians 12:10 NIV

As I was reading an article on nutrition, I came across
the following interesting fact: "The sweet is not as sweet
without the sour." In fact, without the sour, we wouldn't
be able to tell that something was sweet to taste.  Upon
thinking about this, I realized it does make some sense
when related to our taste buds. However, can this same
idea be applied to our Christian lifestyle?  It seems a
follower of Christ should have a life that is only full
of happy and fulfilling times.  Without a doubt, we know
this is not true.  The Christian life can be full of
pain, sorrow and all kinds of trials.  What about Jesus'
life?  Was it free of pain and sorrow?

Oh, how thankful we can be that the Bible gives us
reassuring promises so that we won't need to be
discouraged and overwhelmed by the sour times of life.
When do we truly learn to depend on God?  If we are honest
we will find that times of hardships are the times when
we are most likely to learn to depend on the Lord. We
know we are called to be faithful no matter what life
sends our way.  Our time on earth may not be when we get
to taste the "sweet" but we can take comfort in knowing
that we are guaranteed to in heaven.  What a consolation
during hard times to know that God will be faithful and
give us the needed strength to persevere.  We can look
forward to the sweetness of heaven with the joy of being
with God forever.

Heavenly Father, as we approach the sour times of the
coming days, remind us of the sweetness that You have
in store for us in heaven.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Patricia Armstrong lives in Virginia Beach, Va., with her
husband, Richard.  Patricia is a retired elementary
school teacher who thanks God for the joy in her life,
which comes from knowing He will always be faithful.
Patricia enjoys her Chronic Pain and Illness Support
Group, church activities, camping, reading and gardening.
She prays that all those who are suffering with pain and
llness will know the real joy that comes from being a
child of God.

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TODAY'S TIDBIT:

   You are a part of a growing ministry that reaches out
   to thousands of people with visible and invisible
   chronic illness. Don't miss our magazine which ties
   everything together!

   http://www.restministries.org/comfortzone/cat9_1.htm

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TODAY'S TALKBACK:

   How have you learned to be content in any circumstances?

   Send your response to: rest@...
   or just hit 'reply.' Please include your name, illness,
   & city/state.



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TODAY'S EVENT:

   Can't make it to church? Join Rest Ministries' founder
   Lisa Copen at hers for a live broadcast via the internet.
   All services are also archived. Entire service is live,
   including an amazing worship time. Maranatha Chapel is
   part of Calvary Chapel.

   http://www.maranathachapel.org/media2/livecast.php

"I can do everything through him who gives me
strength." (Philippians 4:13 NIV)

I am strong and capable and can take control of
my life concerning my illness.

I can do all things through Christ which
strengthens me daily.

I will not allow this illness to get the best
of me because I am a survivor and the
Lord my God holds me in the palm of His hand.

I will walk this journey with my head held up
high because I am special and in Gods eyes
I am His unique and precious child.

I am learning to ask others for the support I need.

I love and believe in myself at all times and I am
learning to accept myself just as I am.

My inherent value is not dependent upon what I can do.

It's alright if I make mistakes. I don't have to be perfect.

No matter what I go through I will do my best
to think positive and trust God to see me through.

Father God... help me to use all that I am for good and
please make something good out of my life and help me
to be pleasing to you. Help me to trust in you daily and to
remain positive.Thank you my Lord & Saviour... Amen.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Nancy Dittert (Aka~ Nancie-rose) lives in a berm home in
Central Iowa with her loving hubby Patrick and 2 cats
and 2 Lab/Sharpei dogs. Nancy & Patrick are both retired
pastors, retiring early because of illness. Nancy lives with
Severe Fibromyalgia, Neuropathy,& is HLA-B27 positive.
Her husband had a brain tumor that left him disabled.They
are still actively involved in Prayer and Chronic Pain Support
Ministry through the Internet and Public Access TV. Check
out Nancy's Chronic/Pain Web Ministry page at...
http://fibromyalgiahelp.homestead.com

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TODAY'S TIDBIT:

   "Why Me?" A Doctor Looks at the Book of Job gives
   a unique perspective, written both for those facing
   suffering and those who would help them, Komp uses
   concrete examples to illustrate Job's story.

   http://www.restministries.org/comfortzone/item166.htm



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TODAY'S TALKBACK:

   What about your illness tends to destroy your
   confidence? Or build your confidence?
   Send your response to: rest@...
   or just hit 'reply.' Please include your name, illness,
   & city/state.



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TODAY'S EVENT:

   None scheduled
   Drop by our chat room any time.

   http://www.restministries.org/pro-chat.htm

"Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances
you may have against one another.  Forgive as the Lord
has forgiven you."
Colossians 3:13

My dear husband is under a lot of pressure these days.
  He is this family's only income, so he works hard and
faithfully to provide for this family's needs despite
the fact we are barely making ends meet some weeks.
Sometimes he is so stressed and overworked.

I have a chronic illness. With the physical disabilities
this provides me, Ialso have a "short-term" memory
problem.  I made a mistake today and revealed some
information about my husband to a family member, that
my husband wanted me to keep "quiet" about.  My husband
was very upset with me, and I felt so bad that I could
be so "absent-minded" that I forgot that he wanted this
kept quiet. This was not a big thing and was not even
important in my mind, but to him it was, so it should
have been a priority to me also. I apologized to
him, but he continued to go on and on about it, and
would not let it go…no matter what he would not accept
my apology and move on.  I was very hurt, and
frustrated that my sincere apology to him was not
enough for him today.

People let us down. We let others down. That is part
of being human. We are flawed and we make mistakes.
Sometimes people expect more from us than an apology
when we mess up. I had to keep reminding myself today
that my husband has to deal with my illness everyday
also and that the stress he is under can cause him to
expect more from me than an apology when I make a
mistake.  Even though I was hurt today that he would
not let this go....I realized there is someone I can
turn to no-matter what.

My God forgives me at "I'm sorry". I have a forgiving
LORD who loves me and accepts me flaws and all.
I have caused more grief for my Jesus than I have to
any human in my life, yet when I am sincerely sorry
for the mistakes I have made, He is there waiting to
forgive me and He lets it go. That is such a comfort
for me today.

If you have hurt in your life today dearloved-one…
turn it over to God.  He loves you so much
today, and understands what we are going through and
He forgives us if we just ask Him to.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Deborah Farmer lives in Bunn, NC with her family. She
suffers from several illnesses including Fibromyalgia
and MS.

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TODAY'S TIDBIT:

   Did you know Rest Ministries has always survived based
   on your purchases and donations? We couldn't do it without
   you! If you can, give today.

   http://www.restministries.org/comfortzone/cat11_1.htm



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TODAY'S TALKBACK:

   How do you witness to your doctors and medical staff?
   We're looking for simple ways or more in depth stories.

  Send your response to: rest@...
   or just hit 'reply.' Please include your name, illness,
   & city/state.



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TODAY'S EVENT:

   None scheduled
   Drop by our chat room any time.

   http://www.restministries.org/pro-chat.htm

Greetings, friends!

You are invited to be a part of a new Rest Ministres group
called "Team HopeKeepers." You would offer feedback and suggestions
and contribute to HopeKeepers Magazine as well as other programs and
products of HopeKeepers Magazine's publisher, Rest Ministries.

You don't have to be a subscriber to participate. Anyone is welcome.

We will have polls, questions for you to answer, and ask for your
stories, examples and anecdotes. You may note that we will be asking
questions like in the "Talk Back" section of the devotional.

To sign up send a blank email to
teamhopekeepers-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

WELCOME!

Lisa Copen
Rest Ministries, Inc.
www.restministries.org

"Why are you so downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed
within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise
Him, my Savior and my God" (Psalm 42:11, NIV).

Several weeks ago, I joined my sisters in a visit to
my parents, who live in Florida. Mom suffers with
congestive heart failure, angina, arthritis, and a
host of associated illnesses. During this final
season of her life, she's on oxygen 24/7, sleeps
most of the day, and is under hospice care.

When she's awake, however, Mom is amazingly sharp
and a real chatterbox. She apologizes for talking too
much and makes us laugh when she says she needs to
get all her words in before she falls asleep again.

In spite of her strong faith in her LORD Jesus Christ,
there are times when Mom despairs of all her pain and
frustration and wonders why God hasn't taken her
home yet. She's admittedly tired of the daily struggle,
the fight to sometimes even breathe.

And yet, she doesn't hesitate a minute to praise God
in spite of her pain and difficulties. How does she
manage this? Because of the HOPE she has that God will
soon replace her pain and suffering with supreme joy
and celebration.

Beloved, our HOPE is in a God who truly cares for us
and does not allow us to go through our pain alone.
Here is a simple way to always hold on to Jesus Christ,
our HOPE:

Holy

One

Peace

Everlasting

Where is your HOPE?


~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Anna Popescu lives with Fibromyalgia and several other
chronic illnesses and tries to remember to hold on to
her HOPE: Jesus Christ, the Holy One with Peace
Everlasting. She is the author of the Christian
contemporary novel, A Little Bit of Wonderful, as
well as articles and devotionals in several
publications. Anna lives in northern Arizona with her
husband, Rick, and their Sheltie named Bleu. Anna
enjoys visitors to her Web sites:
http://www.annapopescu.com and
http://thereadywriter.blogspot.com.

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TODAY'S TIDBIT:



WE'VE GOT INVISIBLE ILLNESS WEEK STUFF IN EARLY!



You'll love our fun new design this year and

everything is here early (except brochures, which

should arrive in 2 weeks.) Check out the new

tshirts, buttons and posters today!

http://www.restministries.org/comfortzone/cat15_1.htm



MORE ABOUT INVISIBLE ILLNESS WEEK:

http://www.invisibleillness.com



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TODAY'S TALKBACK:

   What do you feel guilty about (both the reasonable

   or the unreasonable, for example, not cooking enough,

   not having guests over more often, etc.)?

   Send your response to: rest@...

   or just hit 'reply.' Please include your name, illness,

   & city/state.



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TODAY'S EVENT:

   HOPEKEEPERS Online Group Meets Tonight

   We are currently going through a

   compilation of Max Lucado devotionals

   For more information on joining see:

   http://www.restministries.org/pro-hkonline.htm



TIME:    5 p.m. Pacific, USA

PLACE:   http://www.restministries.org/pro-chat.htm

"What has been will be again, what has been done will
be done again; there is nothing new under the sun."
Ecclesiastes 1:9 NIV

One of my favourite movies is Bill Murray's Ground Hog
Day. In this movie Bill's character Phil, a cynical TV
weatherman is sent to the small town of Punxsutawney
to cover the annual festivities of Groundhog Day. Phil
finds himself repeatedly reliving the same day over
and over again. Meeting the same people, having the
same conversations. Phil has insight into his condition
but the people around him don't. Come the end of the
day they have no recollection of their dealings with
Phil. He grows increasingly more agitated in his
interactions with people as he desperately tries to
  explain his situation to anyone who might listen.

This movie for me has in some ways come to represent
my experience of having a chronic condition. Somewhere
between the longitudes of the common cold and life
threatening illness, many of us find ourselves stumbling
along, almost stuck in a Ground Hog Day-like experience.
Our tightly ordered little days can offer up few
surprises (pleasant ones, anyway). One day can start to
feel much like the next with the common denominator of
pain and tiredness. Many of our conversations could be
lifted straight from a script, "No, the pain hasn't
gotten better yet. Yes, I have tried that new medication!
Yes, I will read that article you printed off for me.
It is as if the people around us are themselves caught
up in their own personal Ground-Hog Day, suffering a
form of selective amnesia in their dealings with us.
And tomorrow come sunrise, the Sonny and Cher song will
  start playing, and we're back at square one.

If you have seen the movie, then you will know that
Bill's character only escapes his malady by convincing
one person, Rita (Andie MacDowell) that he is genuine.
She stays with him, watching over him until sunrise,
miraculously breaking his curse.

I guess this is where Hollywood script departs from
analogy for me. Because even if I could persuade Andie
MacDowell to watch over me, I would hardly expect to
wake up the following day arthritis free. I know a
sense of déjà vu will inevitably follow in some of
the conversations I have to do with my health.

The best I can do sometimes is just chuckle and muse,
"This is like Ground Hog Day", hoping that God
grants me that extra measure of grace to be patient.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Richard Erber lives in Sydney, Australia. He suspects
a groundhog is something like a wombat but he is not
sure.

````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````
----parting words----

For a Flash Version of the Gospel we believe you'll like
the following "show."
http://www.lifetalk.net/2ndcoming/ee.html

Lisa Copen
Rest Ministries Director

NEW HOPEKEEPERS MAGAZINE
"I just got your magazine today and I love it!  It is just the
perfect
size, I love the paper it's printed on. The articles are just great!
What a nice job you have done. Thank you so much for making us feel
valued, in all that you do, and for offering us such a fine magazine
to
look forward to getting in our mailboxes!" ~Kelly
Order today!
http://www.comfortzonebooks.com

Rest Ministries
http://www.restministries.org
PO Box 502928, San Diego, CA 92150
Toll-free 888-751-7378
FAX 800-933-1078

Come and join us for ...
"A TIME OF REFRESHMENT"

Each Wednesday at 11:00 a.m. Pacific time (2:00 pm
Eastern), please come to the Rest Ministries chat room
(see "how-to enter" below) for an enjoyable & friendly
hour where guest speakers share their insights on a
particular topic of interest, followed by a discussion and a
chance for you to ask questions of the guest speaker.
We want you to find something that will help you along in
your daily journey with chronic illness or pain.  Plus you
can be encouraged by how others may be dealing with
their challenges.

COMMENTS ABOUT LAST WEEK'S GUEST SPEAKER:
-  The chat has really helped me.  Thanks
-  Thank you again Lisa for coming and sharing and for your
ministry, and for you also Carolann for hosting again today.
Prayers are with you both!!
-  Thanks for all your time here, Lisa.

THIS WEDNESDAY'S GUEST:  On April 6th, meet
CARMEN LEAL,  who will speak on 10 Ways to Be a
Joyful Caregiver.  Everyone is a caregiver, even if you
are only caring for yourself, so you still need to be filled
with joy!  This interactive presentation focuses on the joy
we are filled with when we turn to the Caregiver of our
souls. Practical wisdom learned from 10 years of
caregiving, laughter, and scripture make this a wonderful
time of refreshment for caregivers and others. Everyone
participating in the chat will receive a free gift.

Carmen Leal believes in hope. God's grace has brought
her through divorce, caregiving and loss, parenting
through those difficult teen years, and more. God has
given Carmen much to bear and He trusts her to reach
hurting people through her life experiences and gifts. She
is the author of nine books, is a storyteller and singer and
a popular presenter at women's retreats, church groups,
conventions, and conferences.

UPCOMING GUESTS:  Check out our other upcoming
guests and their web sites and information by going to
www.restministries.org/pro-refresh.htm

TRANSCRIPTS for previous chat sessions are available
at www.restministries.org/pro-chattranscripts.htm just
click on the link word "Trans" next to the name of the
person you want a transcript of.  For last week's
transcript of Lisa Copen's session go to
www.restministries.org/CHAT/trans_copen.htm

QUESTIONS OR SUGGESTIONS?  Please contact me
at cpage@... with any questions, comments, or
suggestions for topics you are interested in for the chat
sessions.

CHAT ROOM ETIQUETTE: These Wednesday chat
sessions are different from other chat rooms you may
frequent where several people chat with each other about
their personal lives.  In these special Wednesday chat
sessions, please keep in mind that the guest speaker is
the focal point of the whole hour.  It would therefore be
inconsiderate to talk when she is talking or to deviate
from the topic she is speaking on.  Any comments or
questions you are invited to make should stay on the
guest speaker's topic.  So if you have personal
comments or conversations you want with anyone please
leave it until after the chat session is finished or send a
private message.  To do that simply click on the name of
the person you want to chat with from the list of names at
the left and then click on Private, at the bottom of the list,
and a private chat window will open.  The main chat
window remains open at the same time.  You are also
welcome to join in social chatting on Thursdays at 3 p.m.
or just drop in any other time to see if anyone else might
be there to chat with.

TO GET TO THE CHAT ROOM:  Go to
www.restministries.org/pro-chat.htm and type in your
name in the box and click on "Connect".  (It may take a
few minutes to load the chat room window.)

HOW TO GET THERE ON TIME:  To make sure you get
to the Wednesday chat room at the right time (11:00 a.m.
Pacific, 1:00 p.m. Central, 2:00 p.m. Eastern), go to
www.worldtimeserver.com then find the time for
California, USA.  Check that time against your own time
and note the difference.  For example if your clock says
it's 6:00 p.m. and the time for California is 4:00 p.m., then
you are 2 hours ahead.  Therefore, in order to get to the
chat room time for 11:00 a.m. Pacific, you would need to
go there at 1:00 p.m. your time.

Look forward to meeting you there!

Carolann Page
Rest Ministries
A Time of Refreshment Chat Room Host

"And my God will meet all your needs according to
His glorious riches in Christ Jesus."(Philippians 4:19 NIV)

David, a young shepherd boy, the baby of the family,
chosen to be King over Israel, the mightiest nation
on earth!  Sounds ridiculous doesn't it?

David was anointed to be King long before he actually
became King.  The story of David is filled with the
troubles and triumphs that he had.  We can see that
throughout his life he was obedient to GOD and to
those GOD placed over him, until GODS appointed time
for David to fulfill his role as King.

David didn't force his way to the throne, although if
you read of the mighty army that gathered around him
and his conquests with that army, you would think he
would have at least tried.  David knew, as it says
in "Zechariah 4:6b (NIV) 'Not by might, nor by power,
but by my Spirit', says the Lord Almighty." When
God's timing was right, David would fulfill his destiny.

Things may not look that rosy in your life at the moment.
GOD may have told you that you had a ministry for Him
but as your life falls more and more by the wayside,
you are beginning to wonder.  Be assured that GOD is
working.  "Romans 8:28 NIV "And we know that in all
things God works for the good of those that love Him,
who have been called according to His purpose."
He is bringing the people and supplies into your life
necessary for you to fulfill your destiny.

"Isaiah 55:8 NIV For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
neither are my ways your ways"  We may think we know how
God will work things out, but His ways are perfect and
His plan will all fall into place at the appointed time.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Julie Munro is a solo mum who lives in New Zealand. Julie
deals with the effects of chronicillness with a sense of humor
and is learning to daily place her trust in God.
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TODAY'S TIDBIT:
   Have you felt called to write? Please read our
   writer's guidelines for HopeKeepers Magazine at
   http://www.restministries.org/admin-writersguide.pdf
   or learn more about Rest Ministries writer's resources
   http://www.restministries.org/pro-writers.htm

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TODAY'S TALKBACK:
   Send us your favorite EASY recipe that others with
   chronic illness would appreciate
   Send your response to: rest@...
   or just hit 'reply.' Please include your name, illness,
   & city/state.

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TODAY'S EVENT:
   HOPEKEEPERS Online Group Meets Today
   We are currently going through a
   compilation of Max Lucado devotionals
   For more information on joining see:
   http://www.restministries.org/pro-hkonline.htm

TIME:    1 p.m. Pacific, USA
PLACE:   http://www.restministries.org/pro-chat.htm