"He does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay
us according to our iniquities."Psalms 103:10 NIV

One of the things I most dislike about the enemy
of our souls is his penchant for attacking the ill,
the elderly, the infirmed.

While my godly mother lay dying, racked with pain
from arthritis, sciatica, neuritis, bursitis, heart
failure and a host of other illnesses, she began to
doubt that Jesus loved her, that Jesus cared for
her.  I held her hand in that sterile room, read
promise after promise from God's precious Word that
He had saved her, that she was the darling of His
care, the apple of His eye, her ever-present Lord.
Those assurances brought peace again to her heart.

Oftentimes, when my own pain reaches unbearable
heights, thoughts come to me that perhaps some
sin in my life caused my illness.  But my Savior
Jesus helps me rebuke that barrage and know once
again that when God forgives, He forgives to the
uttermost and buries our sins forever and ever in
the depths of the sea.

Other times, when I lie on my bed, too ill to move, the
enemy of my soul tells me that my lack of faith is
responsible for my lingering illness. But God reminds
me again and again that He honors even a tiny bit of
faith.  In Matthew 17:20 the mustard seed is specifically
used to illustrate faith and the exercise thereof.

Why then am I not healed?  With all my heart I believe
it's because this is the only way God can get my attention,
to set me aside to feed me from His Word, nurture me with His
presence, surround me with His love and grace, prepare me
to be the kind of godly woman He wants me to be.

Heaven is a prepared place for a prepared people and God is
using our days of pain and suffering that so many of us are
going through to make us ready to meet our bridegroom, Jesus.
I don't want to be ashamed at His appearing.

Please, Father, don't let these days of pain be wasted on me.
I want to be an eager student, a vessel that will make
me an eager participant in the "fellowship of Your suffering."
Amen

---
Mariane Holbrook, a retired teacher, who lives on coastal
North Carolina, suffers from degenerative disk disease,
scoliosis, spinal stenosis, and erythromelalgia.  She can be
reached at Mariane777@... or through her website:
www.marianholbrook.com

---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



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



---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



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.



---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



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

"And for this we labor and strive, that we have put
our hope in the living God, Who is the Savior of all
men, and especially of those who believe."
~ I Timothy 4:10 NIV

Ina Mae Ogdon hoped to enjoy a career traveling with the
Chautauqua Evangelistic Circuit through the Midwest in
the early 1900's, but her aging father became ill and
required constant care. Her dreams were put on hold as
she made caring for him her full time ministry. It was
during this time she began writing gospel songs. Her most
popular was "Brighten the Corner Where You Are". In it,
she encourages us to serve God wherever we find ourselves.
I miss leading God's people into His presence. I miss
directing a choir and pouring every ounce of energy I have
into conducting each nuance and crescendo. I miss it so
badly, I sometimes think I could just rip in half and

come out of this painful hunk of flesh, being released to
bound up the stairs two at a time, waving my arms, not
caring what anyone thinks! I want to sing to the top of my
lungs, standing and lifting my hands to my great God Who
loves me and is always so faithful. I want to praise Him
and re-live those days of health and vigor.

But I was convicted while watching "The Incredibles" last
night. Mr. Incredible, now sidelined, desperately wants to
re-live the glory days. So much so that he ignores and
overlooks his present adventure: his precious family.

That is where God has me now. I am to put just as much
passion into being a friend, husband and father and loving
  my wife, two sons, mother-in-law, cat and dog! I will
never ever say I regret spending too much time with them.
The good, bad, pretty and ugly is all wonderful because
we're doing life together. I am building relationships
that will last forever. I will brighten the corner where
I am. It is here I am the most useful to God.

About the Author:

Pastor Greg Harvey lives in Kansas City, Kansas and was
forced to step down from his 13-year music and senior adults
ministry due to degenerative disc disease and two failed
back surgeries. His book, "Finding God Faithful in Turbulent
Times" is now available and may be ordered by contacting
Greg at gaharvey@... or visiting
www.3crosspublishing.com

---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



TODAY'S TIDBIT:

   BRAND NEW BOOK BY REST MINISTRIES: Beyond Casseroles:

   505 Ways to Encourage a Chronically Ill Friend by Lisa

   Copen (and some of you who gave your ideas!)

   It's a wonderful way to "put feet on your prayers" says

   Donna who is a pastor's wife with 5 chronic illnesses.

   94 pages, SPECIAL BUY of 3 for $10 or just $4.50 each.

   http://www.restministries.org/comfortzone/item3.htm





---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



TODAY'S TALKBACK:

   What silly thing do you do to keep up your spirits when

   no one is looking? (Dance, sing silly songs, etc.)

   Send your response to: rest@...

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

   & city/state.



---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



TODAY'S EVENT:

   None scheduled

   Drop by our chat room any time.

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

"Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the
Lord." (Psalm 31:24 NIV)

As I look back on my life I can see how the trials of my
life only worked to make me stronger in my precious Lord.

It was 1978 and my husband had been diagnosed with
Cancer. Our little family was stationed in Germany in the
service and we pastored a church while there as well.

My dear husband had to be medavaced back to the
United States. Two of our youngest sons went to stay
with my parents in Ohio and our oldest son stayed with
me in Washington DC at Walter Reed Hospital Guest House
so I could stay at the hospital with my husband while he
had radiation treatments after his surgery.

The Guest House had cockroaches, was old and damp
and the window AC was always going out on us. Also we
had to share a bathroom with other guests.

It tore me up to not be able to have our whole family
together even though I knew that our 2 youngest were
in good hands.

It was a time of trusting in Jesus and He always knows what
is best for us. He always comes through.

One day while praying I decided  to get a hot plate and cook in
our room. We were getting really tired of cheese and crackers
and peanut butter. We soon discovered that we could not cook
at the Guest House.

It was then we decided to buy camping gear and a tent and stay
in a nearby beautiful wooded campground. We went to Ohio
and picked up our children and set up house at the campground.

Cooking green peas on the hot plate was a celebration after
crackers and peanut butter. Our family was together and again,
our children had a place to run and play in the sunshine and
God worked all for our good.

Thank you God for always making a way for your children.
We love and exalt Your most holy and precious name.

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

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Nancy Dittert (Aka~ Nancie-rose) lives in a berm home
in the country in Central Iowa with her loving hubby Patrick,
2 cats and 2 Lab/Sharpei dogs. Nancy & Patrick are both
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 Group and Chronic
Pain Support Ministry through the Internet and Public Access
TV. Visit Nancy's Chronic Pain Web Site
at http://fibromyalgiahelp.homestead.com/

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
  ---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



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! Brand new style is coming for the
   next issue!

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

---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



TODAY'S TALKBACK:

   What do you take to bed with you to try to maintain some
   sense of comfort? (keep it clean J) Send your response to:

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



---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



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

"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified
because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; He
will never leave you nor forsake you.
(Deuteronomy 31:6 NIV)

How beautiful the river was.  Not massively wide with
impressive grandiose trees  along the banks. Simple, and
wonderful.  Here and there  were soft little eddies and
pools,just resting in the water.

The water was clear as a bell and icy cold. From one place
on the path I could see that it moved with great speed and
strength. Rocks of all sizes - from pebbles to big boulders,
smooth and round from the water's continual washing -
dotted the river bed and its banks.

The narrow park path wound all over the place.  Up, down,
over the bridge, up again, sharp left turn, twisting and
snaking, then down and to the right. Everywhere I walked,
there was the river. It hugged the narrow path. No matter
what turns the path took, the river was right there by it.
I thought, "It's everywhere!"

Then I thought of how our lives are so like that path, turning
and twisting all over the place.  I thought of how the Spirit
of God is always right there, too, by us throughout our lives,
no matter how curvy or straight our paths might be.

God has told us,  "I will NEVER leave you nor forsake you"
(Joshua 1:5). Yes, it is true:  " the Lord your God will be
with you WHEREVER you go."   (Joshua 1:9)

Oh, thank, God!  That is incredibly comforting......and really
good news.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Sally Ireland Kennedy is the author of "52 Little Parables from
Ireland", "Words from the Heart", and "Irish Thursdays".
http://www.sallyikennedy.com <http://www.sallyikennedy.com/>
Email:  sallyikennedy@...

---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~





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



---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



TODAY'S TALKBACK:

   Do you have a great tidbit of information about a "trick" you
   use to make life easier? Share it with us! (for example, how
   do you get shampoo out of bottles, brush your teeth, etc.)

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



---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~




TODAY'S EVENT:

   None scheduled
   Drop by our chat room any time.

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

"Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial"
(James 1:12 NIV)

I think there are basically four types of people in world
when it comes to pets: those who love dogs, those who
love cats, those who love any animal and those who only
appreciate animals from a distance. If I had to choose a
category to belong to, it would definitely be the dog
lover one. This probably surprises a lot of folks given
my biographical statement!

I really wanted a dog and began praying earnestly for one.
I only wanted a big dog, like a Labrador and my husband
didn't think that was a wise choice, given my chronic illness.

One day while sitting on my porch, I noticed a little black
kitten that had been abandoned on our property. It was so
  tiny and scared. I couldn't coax it over to me. I began
leaving it kitten chow and milk in a saucer. After a couple
of weeks, it would eat in my presence. A few days later and
it was willing to climb up in my lap and be petted.

My brother-in-law told me, "Once you feed a cat, it's yours!"
I couldn't tell if it was male or female, but I thought it
was female and named it, "Ms. Kitty". That was over a year
ago. Ms. Kitty is now obviously a male, but he only
responds to his feminine name!

God has taught me some valuable lessons, using my cat. My
cat only responds to me, probably because it senses love.
Do I respond to my Master exclusively? My cat reacts to the
name I gave it, contrary as it seems. My Master has called
  me blessed, even though it may seem contrary. But I know
  from His Word that I am blessed beyond measure.

I wanted a dog. God knew I needed a cat. One named Ms. Kitty!

*****************************************************************

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Christy Brewster lives on the Oregon Coast
with her husband, Dan. They have two adult children and a
huge male cat named Ms. Kitty. Christy lives with MS and
Diabetes.

---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



TODAY'S TIDBIT:

   BRAND NEW BOOK BY REST MINISTRIES: Beyond Casseroles:

---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



TODAY'S TIDBIT:

   BRAND NEW BOOK BY REST MINISTRIES: Beyond Casseroles:

   505 Ways to Encourage a Chronically Ill Friend by Lisa
   Copen (and some of you who gave your ideas!)

   It's a wonderful way to "put feet on your prayers" says
   Donna who is a pastor's wife with 5 chronic illnesses.
   94 pages, SPECIAL BUY of 3 for $10 or just $4.50 each.

   http://www.restministries.org/comfortzone/item3.htm





---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



TODAY'S TALKBACK:

   Tell us about an experience you have had at a public event/
   location, where you wanted to (or did) "roll your eyes" at how
   disabled access/participation was handled.

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



---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



TODAY'S EVENT:

   None scheduled
   Drop by our chat room any time.

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





-

"For with God nothing shall be impossible. And Mary said,
'Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according
to thy word.' And the angel departed from her.

(Luke 1:37-38 NIV)

We must believe before we can receive in God's kingdom.
This is so evident when we read about God speaking to Mary,
the mother of God.  Just as God always assures us, He
assured Mary even though the news that she was to be God's
mother was such a surprise.  God had everything in place
to act and it was up to Mary to believe Him.  When things
seem impossible in our lives, we need to trust completely
and to have a pure heart to see God.

When God speaks to us about His plans, He does so with
everything already in place to fulfill His word.  He always
knows the future and He is the only one who knows for sure
what the future holds.  How often we become stressed about
the future! Those of us coping with pain and health concerns
often feel overwhelmed because we only know what is
happening now.  We may be dealing with pain, illness and
reactions to meds, financial concerns and a lack of
understanding from others and thus feel frustration. However,
God knows exactly what will come to pass and He always has
our good in mind.  What greater blessing could we have than
being able to place our absolute trust in Him?  Do we ever
stop and think as we pray about what good may come from our
trials?  Mary had no idea of all that would result from her
faithful obedience just as we could never know what good may
come from our trials if we are faithful to God and thus put
our trust in Him.

Dear friends, as we daily cope with all of the trials of
life including the frustrations of chronic pain and illness,
just believe in God's promises as Mary did.  Even though we
do not understand why we have trials in our lives, we do know
God is aware of our future and that all things work together
for good for those who love God and have been called according
to His plans.  With this knowledge, we can have real joy in
our hearts no matter what our circumstances in life may be.

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

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Patricia Armstrong lives in Va. Beach, Va., with her husband,
Richard. She is a retired elementary teacher who enjoys church
activities, camping, gardening and reading.  Patricia deals
with constant pain due to a nerve disease.  She prays that
all of those with chronic pain and illness will find comfort
and peace by trusting in God and His love and care for each
of us.

---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



TODAY'S TIDBIT:

   BRAND NEW BOOK BY REST MINISTRIES: Beyond Casseroles:

   505 Ways to Encourage a Chronically Ill Friend by Lisa
   Copen (and some of you who gave your ideas!)

   It's a wonderful way to "put feet on your prayers" says
   Donna who is a pastor's wife with 5 chronic illnesses.

   94 pages, SPECIAL BUY of 3 for $10 or just $4.50 each.

   http://www.restministries.org/comfortzone/item3.htm



---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



TODAY'S TALKBACK:

   If someone with a chronic illness asked you to recommend
   a "must-read" book to offer comfort or information, which
   book would you recommend?

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



---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



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

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace
as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with
hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." (Romans 15:13 NIV)

I am amazed by the thought that Paul's words about joy
and peace were written to a church that suffered
massive persecution. It makes his words all the more
poignant when I consider how God used their obedience to
Him to effectively change the world for me.

Like a roaring lion who has zeroed in on me for his next
meal, my illness seems like it will eat me alive some
days. Not just in physical challenges. Though the
physical often gets the most attention, the mental
challenges of living with a chronic illness also take
their toll. The feelings of isolation and of not being a
part of the group because I am not able to do the same
things as others, are harsh reminders of my limitations.
That is when God's instructions in Romans 15:13 become
very personal.

Everything depends upon my trust in Jesus. My joy and
peace absolutely hinge upon whether I am trusting in Him.
It the difference between wishing and knowing. It is
faith. If that faith is present, then my hope will be
supplied by the Holy Spirit. And His power will overcome
any challenge!

It is ironic, but as hope fills me with joy and peace,
joy and peace continue to fill me with hope! Next time
a friend tells me I must be feeling better because I look
so happy, I'm going to remember the lions and thank God
for His overflowing hope!

***************************************

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Christy Brewster lives on the Oregon
Coast with her husband, Dan. They have two adult
children and a huge male cat named Ms. Kitty. Christy
lives with MS and Diabetes.

---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



TODAY'S TIDBIT:

   Have you checked recently to see if there is a
   HopeKeepers Group near you?

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



   Interested in starting one?
   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



---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



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.



---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~





TODAY'S EVENT:

   None scheduled
   Drop by our chat room any time.

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

"Therefore do not lose heart. 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 seen is temporary, but what is
unseen is eternal." (2 Corinthians 4:16-18 NIV)



All of us are surrounded by something we cannot see or
feel. Without this particular combination of gases, we
would not be alive. I'm referring, of course, to our
atmosphere. We can't see the air or feel it but we know
it's there because we're here to talk about it.

Many of us have allergy-related asthma problems that
necessitate the use of inhalers and nebulizers to open up
our airways so we can breathe better. Some people have
problems breathing on their own for various reasons and
rely on respirators to help them breathe. Either way, the
result is the same: we cannot see the air we breathe but
we know it is there.

So it is with God. He is our unseen champion, the One Who
is always there to comfort and guide us through the rough
spots in life. It is so easy to give in to the urge to
grumble about our circumstances, but that never changes
the situation, it just makes us feel worse about it. In my
own life, I can see how God tried to get closer to me for
years but it wasn't until my health dramatically declined
that I had to learn to trust Him for everything, even
getting through my day minute by minute.

Just as our parents love us and enjoy our company, God loves
us and longs for close fellowship with each of us. That's
why He made us. When we fix our eyes on Him--even though we
can't see Him--we trust Him with the closeness He desires
from us.

I don't know about you, but I'm renewing my efforts to fix my
eyes on the unseen God in the joyful anticipation of seeing
Him in heaven forever!


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

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Anna Popescu thankfully seeks to write as the Lord leads and
sustains her in everything. She and her husband, Rick, share
their northern Arizona home with their Sheltie named Bleu.
Even though is it sometimes difficult to fix her eyes on the
unseen, Anna knows how important this is as she copes with
several chronic illnesses, including fibromyalgia and chronic
fatigue syndrome. She loves visitors to her Web site:
http://www.annapopescu.com .

---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



TODAY'S TIDBIT:

   BRAND NEW BOOK BY REST MINISTRIES: Beyond Casseroles:

   505 Ways to Encourage a Chronically Ill Friend by Lisa
   Copen (and some of you who gave your ideas!)
   It's a wonderful way to "put feet on your prayers" says
   Donna who is a pastor's wife with 5 chronic illnesses.
   94 pages, SPECIAL BUY of 3 for $10 or just $4.50 each.

   http://www.restministries.org/comfortzone/item3.htm







---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



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.



---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



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

"I will sing of the Lord's great love forever; with
my mouth I will make Your faithfulness known through
all generations. I will declare that Your love stands
firm forever, that You established your faithfulness
in heaven itself,"   (Psalm 89: 1-2 NIV)

Looking out our back window and over the roof of our
neighbor's home, I am blessed to see the ever-faithful
tree ablaze in color. It's always the first tree to
lead the autumn parade with its reddish-orange glow.
Surrounding trees follow suit, letting the burst
ignite them into shades of gold, orange and red -
autumn's parade of colors.

I am amazed how the same tree every year is assigned
the duty of announcing the change in the season. I
often proclaim, "It's officially fall," making known
the beautiful tree and its colors have made the
announcement. By the time it looses it leaves,
preparing for winter, the other trees begin to wrap-up
the grandiose performance to the applause of chilling
winds. I watch the display appreciating the beauty
and faithfulness afforded me.

Just as there is splendor in green trees of summer and
their exquisite colors in fall, there is superb beauty
in their strong stance when snow covers bare winter
branches. Yes, in all seasons there is wonder and awe.

The beauty and faithfulness in the changes of the trees
reminds me of God's faithfulness in the seasons of my
own life. He is a friend I can count on when life is
blooming with good things or when the cold dark cloud of
adversity closes in.

We encounter illness, broken relationships and financial,
child rearing or job related adversities, along with
temptations, during the course of our lives. But God is
ever faithful in forgiveness and compassion, providing
comfort and direction in His Word for the trials and
hardships we face. His love, strength and faithfulness
supply that which we need to color our world. In serving
God through the hard times we can speak to the world of
His glory, greatness and continued provisions.

Do you show the world the love and faithfulness of God
in the adversities of your life?

Prayer: Thank you God for your provisions through the
seasons of my life; help me proclaim your faithfulness
and allow your love and glory to be seen through me.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Betty King lives with her husband Bill, of 48 years and
her faithful dog, Missy. They have four grown children
and ten grandchildren. She has lived with the disease
multiple sclerosis for 37 years. She is an author and
freelance writer and contributor to the Chicken Soup
series. Visit her website  at www.bettyking.net or
email her at baking2@....

---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



TODAY'S TIDBIT:

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

   Ministries' latest 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



---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



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.



---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~

TODAY'S EVENT:

   None scheduled

   Drop by our chat room any time.

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

"The LORD will fulfill His purpose for me; Your love,
O LORD, endures forever, do not abandon the works of
Your hands."  (Psalm 138:8) NIV

I had a friend who went through great adversity in her
life. She often said, "What doesn't make me bitter
will make me stronger."  She knew that out of the rubble
of her life God's purpose would be fulfilled.  How did
she know that?  Because we are a work in progress and
God's word promises that His purpose will be fulfilled.
"Philippians 1:6 NIV says, Being confident of this,
that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to
completion until the day of Christ Jesus."

The path of this life may twist and turn, but God has a
plan and He knows where we are going.  I once told a
friend that I felt like I was riding in a car that was
speeding out of control down a steep, winding road.  He
just grinned and said, "Yeah but look at it this way,
Jesus has a hold of the steering wheel." He is right.
The ride can get very rough, but God is still in control.

Nahum 1:7 NIV says, "The LORD is good, a refuge in times
of trouble.  He cares for those who call on Him."  My
friend and I have learned that God's love will endure
through hardship, pain, and loss.  Nothing is too hard
for Him. We are His workmanship and He is our refuge.

Often our lives are like an old building.  It may look
okay on the outside.  It still has some sound structure.
On the inside, it needs a lot of work.  The floors creak.
The plaster is falling of off the walls.  But through the
love and care of the craftsman it can be restored and
made stronger.

Through the trials of this life, God does the same in us.
He knocks down the strongholds in our lives. He removes
the hardness from our hearts.  He uses adversity to refine
us and to make our faith grow. In the process, we are
conformed into the image of His Son.  Some day when we
hear, "Well done good and faithful servant", it will all
be worth it.

About The Author:

Sheree Murphy lives with her husband and three dogs.  Life
is a gift. Use it for His glory.

---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



TODAY'S TIDBIT:

   You are a part of a growing ministry that reaches out

   to thousands of people with visible and invisible

   chronic illness. We have some great logo merchandise

   to help you feel a part of this movement.

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



---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



TODAY'S TALKBACK:

   Tell us! If your church leadership asked you, "what can we
   do better to reach out to the chronically ill?" what would
   you say?

   Send your response to: rest@...

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

   & city/state.



---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



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

"It is time to seek the Lord." (Hosea 10:12 NIV)
"Jesus told his disciples…that they should always
pray and not give up." (Luke 18:1 NIV)"God will
meet all your needs." (Philippians 4: 19 NIV)


It rained and rained for 48 hours. 24 hours into the
storms the roof of our house started to continually
leak. By the time the rain was over half the roof had
leaks. There were buckets, plastic, and every kind
of container all over the house trying to hold the
water that came through the roof, and to keep things
as dry as possible. I prayed for the Lord to provide
for no rain, no more leaks and a way to fix the roof.

Plans were made to fix the roof the next week. As the
project started there was a window of three days to get
it done before rain was predicted to come. The evening
the rain was to come the project had become bigger than
originally planned and was no where near completion.
Plastic was put over the roof. And, I prayed. The next
morning we found it sunny and it had not rained the
night before. Now we had a window of a day and a half.
Again the roof was not done and it was suppose to rain.
And, I prayed. The next morning there were sunny skies
and not a drop of rain had fallen. This would repeat
two more times and I kept praying each time.

Weeks later I was reminded how the LORD God had provided
what we needed with the roof as we needed it. This was
reassuring; for my health had gone into a flare and the
pain had become the worse I had known. Through this
reminder I knew that as I prayed to the Lord, He already
knew I was in this pain and He would provide what I needed.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Bonnie Hall lives in Indiana. She seeks the Lord's help
daily as she manages Celiac Sprue, Fibromyalgia, Chronic
Fatigue, and Arthritis. You are welcome to visit her web
page:  http://www.geocities.com/moments_of_hope/ministry.html

---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



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

---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



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.



---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



TODAY'S EVENT:

   None scheduled
   Drop by our chat room any time.

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

"As the deer pants for streams of water, so my
soul pants for You, O God." ~~Psalm 42:1 NIV~~

Has living with chronic illness and pain left you
feeling isolated? Have friends and family members
left you feeling abandonded and on your own. Do
you feel that no one, except for maybe your doctor
understands what you are going through? Are you
questioning, "Where is God in all of this?" Beloved,
God is right by your side. He has not left you nor
forsaken you. When no one else understannds, God
is there.

I used to journal. Journaling for me was a wonderful
way to see God's work in my life. When I would go
through a trail, I would write out my prayers to God.
Then, almost mystically, God would provide a way for
me to get through it. When one door was shut, a window
would open up. Doctors would be provided for me, new
medications would be added and I would be prayed for
by others.  Journaling was a way I could look back
afterwards and see God's hand in my life.

The other day I went to the dentist to have a filling
restored. Due to all of my heart medication I take, I
have a dry mouth and must take a prescription flouride
toothpaste. My dentist tried to save my tooth, but
unfortunately was not able to do so. Decay had formed
moved up above my gum line near my jaw bone. The only
option for me is to have my tooth extracted. Upset, as
I take great pride in taking care of my teeth, I was
told that it was not my fault and it was due to my
medications.

Looking back over my journals, I could see that God is
indeed working in my life. He is providing me with an
oral surgeon who will take care of this for me. Living
with chronic illness can have a ripple effect and be
overwhelming at times, but God is always there to see
us through the difficult times.

"The LORD is faithful to all His promises and loving to
all He has made. The LORD upholds all those who fall and
lifts up all who are bowed down." ~~Psalm 145:13,14 NIV~~

God will never leave you nor desert you. He loves you
very much and will provide people to enter your life who
will take care of you. When God shuts one door, He opens
a window. Pray hard and look back in your life where
God has been faithful. See God in the small details of your
life: your physicians, your medications and people in your
life. Look back over your life and see God in the small
details. "My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation
comes from Him. He alone is my Rock and my salvation; He is
my fortress. I will never be shaken." ~~Psalm 62:1,2 NIV~~

"LORD, help me to remember that You are always there--
Listening to my heart and hearing every prayer."
(author unknown)


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

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:  Kay DeCarlo, devotion coordinator for
Rest Ministries lives with her husband and two sweet fur-dog
children in Connecticut. Kay also lives with Dilated
Cardiomyopathy, a form of heart failure, Bipolar Disorder,
Post-Traumatic Stress and Type 2 Diabetes. She is grateful
to God for all the open windows in her life.

---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



TODAY'S TIDBIT:

   Get a F-R-E-E book with $10 purchase! Visit Rest Ministries'

   Bookstore and with any $10 purchase (magazine subscription and
   postage excluded) you will automatically receive the book,
   "The Way to the Rainbow." See more at

   http://www.comfortzonebooks.com



---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



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.



---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



TODAY'S EVENT:

   None scheduled
   Drop by our chat room any time.

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

"For the time will come when man will not put up with
sound doctrine, they will gather around them a great
number of teachers to say what their itching ears
want to hear.  (2 Timothy 4:3 NIV)"

  Many times through this journey of life's trials and the
trials of chronic illness I, as well as many others,
have looked for answers as to why and how.  I/we have
been guilty of looking to man for answers to my/our
troubles.  At times desperation overtook wisdom and I/we
searched for those who would tell me/us what I/we wanted
to hear, using God's Word as their diving board into
disillusionment and at times heresy.  I was, in a sense,
looking for a "formula" or "routine" that would guarantee
me results.  I was being taught to have faith in my
"faith", use daily "affirmations" of scripture to bring
about results.  I should have been placing my trust in
GOD, but in my weakened and weary state all I wanted was
relief, and in the process was open to unsound doctrine.

James reminds us in chapter 1:5 NIV "If any of you lacks
wisdom, he should ask GOD, who gives generously to all
without finding fault, and it will be given to him."

Over the years I have come to realise that it is through
trials that we grow in faith, "through", not "around" or
"over" but THROUGH.  GOD'S promises are given to those
who are His, but there are times that GOD will make His
Word rhema to us.  GOD highlights scripture and gives it
to you as a promise, encouragement or guide.  That still
small voice whispering comfort and peace.  David reminds
us to remember God's promises to us (Psalm 119:148 NIV).
Through study of His word God has shown me much about
myself, the journey I am on and more importantly who He
is.

It takes time, wisdom and faith to know GODS voice, but
if we are willing to lay aside our agenda for quick relief
and rely fully on and completely trust in GOD, not man,
then He will do the work.

LORD Jesus thank you, thank you for Your promises, for Your
Word, and for the grace You have given those who repent
and turn fully to You.  Thank you LORD for Your love,
guidance and wisdom through this life we now live in You.
Amen.



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

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

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 on to 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.

---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



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



---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



TODAY'S TALKBACK:

   Finish this sentence and then send us your response: I'm proud
   of the way I have handled my illness in the following way_______.

   Send your response to: rest@...

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

   & city/state.





---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



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

"....they did not listen to him because of their discouragement"

(Exodus 6:9 NIV)
Last evening I was sitting with my grandson watching a movie.
It was about fairies and of course, where there are fairies
there is magic. I watched his face light up and thought of
myself at his age....I still believed in the tooth fairy then.
"Wouldn't it be neat if I were magic?! I would have a big jet
land right here in the street and take us to Disneyland!" I
said to him. Eyebrows down, he thought for awhile, shaking his
head and answered, "Grandma, if you were magic, you wouldn't
need a jet. You could just take us straight to Disneyland!"
Later, I was to learn that he brought this issue up with his
mom.....Grandma just didn't get it! Magic does not work that
way!

Through our illness and pain, how many times do we "just don't
get it"! We think of God in our own human way. We pray but
want immediate answers, and then we want the answers that we
have decided on. We do not think of Christ as "all enfolding"
.....we are too busy trying to solve our own dilemmas with
human emotion. Sometimes we pray and wait but the pain gets
too intense or the bills do not get paid. We worry and then
close all doors for Christ to work inside us.

My grandson was right when he said that magic does not work
that way.....in his child mind he is open to all ideas. He
does not have boundaries as an adult does. We need to think
as a child and open our hearts to Christ. Only then can He
work wonders in our lives. We have to be open to Christ's
way of communicating through us and to us.

Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be
discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever
you go."(Joshua 1:9 NIV). Let go of your human emotions and be
childlike and remember....."You do not support the root, but
the root supports you."(Romans 11:18 NIV)

Heavenly Father, help us each to come to You with the innocence
of a child. Guide us to be open and trusting in you, O LORD
through our difficult times. Fill us with Christ's Light that
we may have hope and not despair.

*************************************************************

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Nancy Carr lives in western Kansas. She has
had to retire from teaching elementary music because of
Degenerative Disc Disease. She is learning life's lessons from
a very loving husband, family, and friends and thanks the LORD
daily for all He has done for her.

---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



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



---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



TODAY'S TALKBACK:

   How do you grocery shop with a chronic illness?

   Do you speed shop? Send someone else? Order online?

   And do you worry about using coupons and hitting the
   sales or do you just get what you need quickly and
   leave? Send us your response!

   Send your response to: rest@...

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

   & city/state.



---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



TODAY'S EVENT:

   None scheduled

   Drop by our chat room any time.

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

"It is time to seek the LORD." (Hosea 10:12 NIV)
"Jesus told his disciples…that they should always
pray and not give up." (Luke 18:1 NIV)"God will
meet all your needs." (Philippians 4: 19 NIV)


It rained and rained for 48 hours. 24 hours into
the storms the roof of our house started to continually
leak. By the time the rain was over half the roof had
leaks. There were buckets, plastic, and every kind of
container all over the house trying to hold the water
that came through the roof, and to keep things as dry
as possible. I prayed for the Lord to provide for no
rain, no more leaks and a way to fix the roof.

Plans were made to fix the roof the next week. As the
project started there was a window of three days to get
it done before rain was predicted to come. The evening
the rain was to come the project had become bigger than
originally planned and was no where near completion.
Plastic was put over the roof. And, I prayed. The next
morning we found it sunny and it had not rained the night
before. Now we had a window of a day and a half. Again
the roof was not done and it was suppose to rain. And,
I prayed. The next morning there were sunny skies and
not a drop of rain had fallen. This would repeat two more
times and I kept praying each time.

Weeks later I was reminded how the Lord had provided what
we needed with the roof as we needed it. This was
reassuring; for my health had gone into a flare and the
pain had become the worse I had known. Through this reminder
I knew that as I prayed to the LORD He already knew I was
in this pain and He would provide what I needed.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Bonnie Hall lives in Indiana. She seeks the Lord's help daily
as she manages Celiac Sprue, Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue
and Arthritis. You are welcome to visit her web page:

http://www.geocities.com/moments_of_hope/ministry.html

  ---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



TODAY'S TIDBIT:

   Get a F-R-E-E book with $10 purchase! Visit Rest Ministries'

   Bookstore and with any $10 purchase (magazine subscription and
   postage excluded) you will automatically receive the book,
   "The Way to the Rainbow." See more at

   http://www.comfortzonebooks.com



---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



TODAY'S TALKBACK:

   PLEASE ANSWER!

   What morning ritual do you do each day to get up and get
   going? What gets you out of bed when you don't feel like it?
   Send your response to: rest@...

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

   & city/state.



---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



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

"…I delight to sit in His shade, and His fruit is sweet
to my taste. He has taken me to the banquet hall and
His banner over me is love." (Song of Solomon 2:3-4) NIV

Life is full of things that need to be done. We have an
endless list of things that demand our attention -family,
jobs, pets, housework and shopping to name a few. It is
easy to get distracted. There are days that the pain is
so great that I can't do anything. It is on those days
that I have to give up my need to do and just be. To
sit at the feet of the Lord and take shelter in the rest
that He alone can provide. His love for us is sweet.
Whether we sense Him or not, He wraps His love around us
like a warm, comforting blanket. He also infuses us with
His strength.

I have to be reminded frequently that it ok to just sit.
We only have to do what the Lord asks us to do. Remember
Mary and Martha? Mary had the right idea. In Luke 10:41-42
NIV Jesus said, " Martha, Martha. You are worried and upset
about many things. But only one thing is needed. Mary has
chosen what is better, and it will not be take away from
her." Mary was content to sit at the LORD's feet and to
learn from Jesus. Martha was preoccupied with serving her
guests. Mary's heart was focused and centered on the LORD.
Mary had chosen the "better part."

Jesus isn't concerned with what we can accomplish. He is
concerned with the condition of our hearts. Are we going
to give into the desire to feel needed and appreciated? Or
are we like Mary content to sit at His feet? The LORD beckons
choose the better part, rest and learn from Me. Life is full
of choices. Which part will you choose?

Father, we thank You that You give us opportunities to rest
and to learn from Your Son. There is great freedom in letting
go. We thank You for Your great love and for the reminders
that You give us. We praise You. Amen.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
About The Author:

Sheree Murphy lives with her husband and three dogs. She believes
that each day is a gift to be used for God's glory.

---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



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



---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



TODAY'S TALKBACK:

   If you had to use three words to describe your life right
   now they would be ________________.

   Send your response to: rest@...

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

   & city/state.



---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



TODAY'S EVENT:

   None scheduled

   Drop by our chat room any time.

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

In response to the emails I've received about the link not

working that I gave out a few days ago for a free sample

of the magazine. oops! I am so sorry! It "should" have

worked but logically it isn't.



Click here for a free sample of our actual 64-page magazine!

http://www.restministries.org/hk_mag/freesample_request.asp



Please sign up by Tuesday to ensure that you get the next issue.

God bless,



Lisa Copen
Rest Ministries Director
HopeKeepers Magazine Editor



************************************************
HOPEKEEPERS MAGAZINE SPECIAL!
Buy 1 subscription get 1 free for a friend!
Sign up today!!
http://www.restministries.org/comfortzone/item34.htm

************************************************
Get on our mailing list! Get a free sample copy of

HopeKeepers Magazine via postal mail and "HopeNotes"

in your email box periodically. You'll hear about specials,

news, new resources, and be entered to win a $25 gift

certificate from our store.

mailto:news@...?subject=hk_mag-subscribe


************************************************
Rest Ministries, Inc.

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





[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

'For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels
nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers,
neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be
able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus
our Lord".  (Rom. 8:38 & 39 NIV)

One of the dear members in my Support Ministry was feeling
down and she asked us if we ever felt like we were praying and
our prayers were not getting through to God. Below is an excerpt
from the reply I sent her.

I think we have all felt that way sometime in our illnesses.

There is one promise we have though. God will never leave or
forsake us and He promises to see us through as long as we are
on this earth.

These old earthly bodies get tattered and torn and we sometimes
feel like we could use our heavenly bodies right now where there
will never be pain or sadness or sickness.

It is hard to see sometimes in our prayers that there are some that
are healed and other times we see those that have not been healed.

I have seen some miraculous healings even in my own life, but other
times I do not see a healing manifest itself.

I feel like because of the world being the way it is... all the bad
things
in the world that we have to live with.... pollution, chemicals in
every
thing, additives and preservatives in foods, etc... this may be why
so
many people are sick... whether they are Christians or unsaved.

Every part of our life down here on this earth is like a chapter.
Every
chapter is another chance for us to lean on God more for everything
we go through.

It is heartbreaking when we see all the suffering down here... but
think
what it would be like if we didn't know Jesus. We would be suffering
alone and with no eternal future.

Even though we go through things down here that appear to be out of
our control... we have one promise... God loves us and He will be
with
us no matter what we are going through.

Let us be encouraged and know that there is coming a day that we will
no longer have these earthly sufferings. Let us be excited knowing
that
our future with Jesus is perfect and without want of any kind.
Nothing
can separate us from the mighty love of God.

Thank you Jesus for always being here for us.

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

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Nancy Dittert (Aka~ Nancie-rose) lives in a berm home
in the country in Central Iowa with her loving hubby Patrick,
2 cats and 2 Lab/Sharpei dogs. Nancy & Patrick are both
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 Group and Chronic
Pain Support Ministry through the Internet and Public Access
TV. Visit Nancy's Chronic Pain Web Site
at http://fibromyalgiahelp.homestead.com/

---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



TODAY'S TIDBIT:

   BRAND NEW BOOK BY REST MINISTRIES: Beyond Casseroles:

   505 Ways to Encourage a Chronically Ill Friend by Lisa
   Copen (and some of you who gave your ideas!)
   It's a wonderful way to "put feet on your prayers" says
   Donna who is a pastor's wife with 5 chronic illnesses.
   94 pages, SPECIAL BUY of 3 for $10 or just $4.50 each.

   http://www.restministries.org/comfortzone/item3.htm



---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



TODAY'S TALKBACK:

   What silly thing do you do to keep up your spirits when
   no one is looking? (Dance, sing silly songs, etc.)

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



---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~



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

Sitting Down With Jesus

"Let us then approach the throne of grace with
confidence, so that we may receive mercy and
find grace to help us in our time of need,"
(Heb 4:16 NIV).

Did you ever think what it would be like to actually
sit down physically with Jesus and have a
conversation with Him? To look upon his precious
face, to feel his presence fill the room as you poured
your heart out to Him?

Have you ever thought what you might say to Him?
Would you tell Him about all your fears? Would
you cry before Him and tell Him how much you love
Him? Would your offer Him something to drink or a
meal? Would you put on your very best fare for him
in respect and honor of His presence?

My dear friends...when we pray and go to the throne
of God we are in the presence of the Almighty God!
We are enveloped by His love and care. We have
front row seat tickets to view the very presence of
our God.

Sometimes it is hard to pray. We are hurting so bad
or we have been discouraged by negative things in
our lives and it's hard to get the words out or even
hard to just find the time and energy to sit down and
take the time and go before our best friend and
Saviour. Jesus loves us so very much. He is our
Saviour. He is our Lord. He is our brother and we
are adopted into His family by accepting Him as
our Lord and Saviour and asking forgiveness for all
our sins. No sin is too big for Jesus to cover. He has
it all covered at Calvary. He loves us and is here
for us 24/7.

Let us all take the time daily to sit down with the
Master and bask in his love. He is waiting for us and
wants to be our best friend.

We thank you, Jesus, that we can always come to
you with sweet communion and love. You are all we
ever need and we ask for faith and strength to get us
through in your name. Amen.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Nancy Dittert (Aka~ Nancie-rose) lives in a berm
home in the country in Central Iowa with her loving
hubby Patrick, 2 cats and 2 Lab/Sharpei dogs. Nancy
& Patrick are both 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 Group and Chronic Pain
Support Ministry through the Internet and Public
Access TV. Visit Nancy's Chronic Pain Web Site
at http://fibromyalgiahelp.homestead.com/


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

---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~

TODAY'S TALKBACK:
What do you take to bed with you to try to maintain some
sense of comfort? (keep it clean J) Send your response to:
rest@... or just hit 'reply.' Please include
your name, illness, & city/state.

---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~

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

Hi, Friends!

I hope you are doing "well" all things considered. For many
of you fall it in the air.  I love this time of year as leaves
start to turn brown and the air turns crisp.  It's not truly
fall until you hear the sounds of a football game on
television and began to order something like a chai tea
or scone that has pumpkin in it.

Here in San Diego today, however, it is 96°! And I don't
eat sugar so the only pumpkin smells of fall floating
around my house are from the air fresheners. My husband
said, "I keep walking in the door and thinking you've
been baking!" (Okay, so I did try lo-carb pumpkin muffins
and pretty much devoured the whole dish.)

Katie, our devotional coordinator, is on vacation this
week and so I just wanted to take a moment to send my
greetings to you and also thank Kara for posting
the daily devotionals for us.  If you have called Rest
Ministries, is Kara who you have spoken to.

I also wanted to say thank you for all of the prayers that
you sent up on my behalf when I had surgery and was in
recovery mode. I'm happy to day that my wrist is much
improved, and despite having a "lupus" flare a few weeks
ago, the lab test came back negative. So I am happy for
now that I only have 2 chronic illnesses, but still a bit
nervous about when the next time will be that my face blows
up in a few hours. (Scary, as I'm sure many of you have
experienced it!)

My son, Joshua, will be 3-years-old in January. He is
a constant bundle of energy. His favorite thing to do is run
laps, around and around, even if it's only 5 feet.  We have
recently given him a "big-boy" room with a vintage
transportation theme, and he loves the fact that he is now
surrounded by trains, planes, and automobiles. He began
nursery school two mornings a week at a nearby church this
fall, and we had our first field trip on Tuesday to a local
pumpkin patch (I was sure I was going to lose him in the
corn maze and was relieved I was able to climb onto the
tractor ride!)  His favorite word is "no" and "hot."
Regardless of what I serve, even if it comes out of the
freezer, he says "hot, hot!" He now has a new "big-boy" look
too, as he fell off his trike a couple of weeks ago
landing right on his face and he broke off about 1/3 of
his front tooth off.  So in between my moments with
Rest Ministries that is what is going on in our neck
of the woods.

I hope you enjoyed our first new issue of HopeKeepers
Magazine. The next issue is going to print early next week.
I will soon be putting up the condensed online versions.
We have a minimum print run of 5000 copies, so we are
hoping to increase our subscriber database to help cover
these expenses.  Right now we are offering "buy a
subscription, get one free." So for just $17.97, you
can have TWO 1-year subscriptions! Please take advantage
of this & sign up a friend. It would also make a great
Christmas present.  I will send them out of card letting
them do the gift is from you and their first magazine
arrived shortly.
http://www.restministries.com/comfortzone/cat9_1.htm

Did you know we have a whole web site now just for
HopeKeepers Magazine? It's at:
http://www.hopekeepersmagazine.com
You can offer feedback, send a question to Dr. Chai,
read back issues, etc.

If you aren't sure about subscribing yet, but would like
to try a free sample issue, be sure to sign up for this at
http://www.hopekeepersmagazine.com/hk_mag/freesample_request.asp
You will receive AN ACTUAL MAGAZINE IN THE MAIL, not just
the emailed version!

I'm often torn in how to write these e-mails. . .  I don't
want to sound too "business-like" and resemble the spam
that I am sure you get.  Yet, I also need to relate to
you that you are purchases, donations, and any financial
support is necessary to help us continue to serve you
as well as grow.

I know that many of you have financial difficulties and
wish you could give. Please don't worry about that!
God certainly is aware of this and helps provide for
us! I also note that the holidays are coming, and many
of you have also given donations help with hurricane
support.

This is just a friendly, personal reminder, to ask that you
remember as we making your holiday purchases or year-end
donations.

Lastly, I just wanted to let you know that we have new
HopeKeepers t-shirts in that say, "Top 10 Things to Not
Say to Someone with a Chronic Illness." We had this saying
on the back of a Invisible Illness Week T-shirt a few years
ago and many of you have been asking if we would have it
again. We do!
Check it out at:
http://www.restministries.com/comfortzone/item117.htm

--------
F'R'E'E' book!
--------
And right now, with any purchase over $10 (excluding magazine
subscriptions) we are giving away a copy of the book,
The Way to the Rainbow" by Marjorie Bell Alexander.
She was featured in the Jan/Feb/March 2004 HK Magazine!

I am also looking for 2 new volunteers! One would be the
assistant for the chat "times of refreshment." You may have
noticed that they haven't yet started back up from the summer
break. Our coordinator, Carolanne, will be joining us again
but she needs some assistance. The second position would be
working with me in putting together little updates from Rest
Ministries in an "ezine-like" format, gathering information
from other volunteers, formatting it, etc. Some experience
with newsletters or emails is preferred. Email me at
rest@... if you're interested in either of these.

I think that is all for now. I am getting a new email program
together that will be working soon so I can send out updates
to people on our mailing list more often. Our server, SBCglobal
began to limit the number of people I could email earlier this
year and so I've been trying to figure out how to get around
this without paying astronomical fees for the use of a
service.

Oh! And one more good note! Rest Ministries sent off over 600
HopeKeepers Magazines last month to shelters in the Baton
Rouge area for huricanne victims. We hope that while people
are waiting around and looking for God's leading that this
will be a comfort to them. Please keep this in your prayers.

Thanks friends,
God's blessings to you as always,


Lisa Copen
Director

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

"Do you often feel like parched ground, unable to produce
anything worthwhile? I do. When I am in need of refreshment,
it isn't easy to think of the needs of others. But I have
found that if, instead of praying for my own comfort and
satisfaction, I ask the Lord to enable me to give to others,
an amazing thing often happens - I find my own needs
wonderfully met. Refreshment comes in ways I would never
have thought of, both for others, and then, incidentally,
for myself."   --Elisabeth Elliot

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

Rest Ministries, Inc.
http://www.restministries.org
PO Box 502928, San Diego, CA 92150
http://www.comfortzonebooks.com
Make a donation:
http://www.restministries.org/comfortzone/cat11_1.htm

"Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your
ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, `This
is the way; walk in it,'" (Isaiah 30:21) NIV.

Sometimes this life can be filled with frustration. I
am tired and there is a lot going on all at once in
my life. We as humans often ask, "why?" when
things happen that we don't understand. God is
teaching me to ask, "What do you want me to
learn from this?"

We can't see the whole plan, but God can.
He knows what we can handle and He often
only gives us enough light for the moment. The
next step is planned, but we often don't see it
or understand it. I recently read a quote that
spoke peace to my heart. It said, " Peace does
not mean the end of all our striving, Joy does
not mean the drying of our tears. Peace is the
power that comes to souls arriving up to the light
where God Himself appears." *

Illness, pain, persecution, and tribulation can be
tough to understand. What God is teaching me
is that there are great blessings in adversity. We
may not feel His presence, but He is in the midst
of those struggles. He knows the way and He
says, "This is the way; walk in it."

No matter what the circumstances God knows
the truth. He may choose to vindicate us or He
may choose to use adversity to move us on to the
next step in His plan. Either way, I am learning
that we can experience His divine joy when we
are hit by the cold wind of adversity. Oswald
Chambers said, "A saint doesn't know the joy
of the Lord in spite of tribulation, but because
of it."

God often speaks to us in funny ways. I was feeling
down when I heard part of a country song. It said,
"Stick to your guns if you believe in something no
matter what 'cause it is better to be hated for who
you are than loved for someone you're not."** It
reminded me of what Jesus said in Matthew
5:10-12.  Read it for yourself and be blessed.

About The Author:
Sheree Murphy lives with her husband and three
dogs. She believes that each day is a gift to be
used for God's glory.

*G.A. Studdert Kennedy
** Van Zant - Help Somebody

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

---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~

TODAY'S TALKBACK:

Tell us about an experience you have had at a public event/
location, where you wanted to (or did) "roll your eyes" at
how disabled access/participation was handled. Send your
response to: rest@... or just hit 'reply.' Please
include your name, illness, & city/state.

---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~

TODAY'S EVENT:

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

"Show mercy and compassion to one another." Zechariah 7:9

GOD LOVES THE CAREGIVERS

You wake up every morning
And it seems you haven't slept.
You know another day has dawned,
A day you must accept.
Your loved one in that sterile room
Is waiting for you now;
You know that you'll get through the day,
But still you're wondering how.

For weeks you've made that anxious trip
To try to ease her pain.
You pray each visit that you make
Will not be made in vain.
You see her suffer, hold her tight,
And wipe away her tears.
You tell her Jesus loves her
And can calm her mounting fears.

You choose her favorite verses
From the Bible that you bring,
Encourage her to join you
In the praises that you sing.
You hold her hand, begin to pray
And soon you hear His voice,
"My children, I am here and though
It seems you have no choice,
Your pleas aren't falling on deaf ears,
For I've known suffering, too;
I suffered on that cross to give
Eternal life to you.

"So trust in me, I'll never give you
More than you can bear;
I see my child who's hurting
And my child who's giving care.
I've wrapped my arms around you both,
And I will hold you near;
One day it will be over
And the pain will disappear."

God has a special love for those
Who minister and care,
When life seems very hard for you
And sometimes seems unfair.
One day will be Awards Day
And He'll show the prize you'll claim
And heaven will erupt in cheers
When God calls out your name.
--------
Mariane Holbrook is a retired teacher and writer
who lives with her husband on coastal North Carolina.
She is the author of two books, "Prisms Of The Heart"
and "Humor Me."

For a free, lovely, laminated bookmark of this poem,
mail a SASE #10 envelope to: Mariane Holbrook
209 I Ave., Kure Beach, NC 28449


TODAY'S TIDBIT:

Get a F-R-E-E book with $10 purchase! Visit Rest Ministries'
Bookstore and with any $10 purchase (magazine subscription
and postage excluded) you will automatically receive the book,
"The Way to the Rainbow." See more at
http://www.comfortzonebooks.com
---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~

TODAY'S TALKBACK:

If someone with a chronic illness asked you to recommend a
"must-read" book to offer comfort or information, which book
would you recommend?

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

---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~

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

God is My Help

Surely God is my help; the Lord is the one who
sustains me" (Psalm 54:4, NIV).

We've all seen the TV commercials about the
drum-carrying pink bunny that claims to keep going
and going because of the special batteries in its
power pack. The advertisers make a point of saying
that this particular brand of batteries works better
than any other to keep the bunny marching and
pounding his drum longer than the competitors'
brands.

We live in a world filled with gimmicks to keep us
younger, healthier, or more glamorous. The media
bombards us with ideas and images of ways to cope
with our families, jobs, and the world at large. It
is easy to get caught up in thinking that we can't
get by without owning the latest gadget.

Last month, God showed me something new about
myself. In the midst of a writing assignment with a
tight deadline, my body waged a war with
weather-related migraine headaches. Because of this
deadline, I needed to keep on working even through
the pain and nausea of these migraines. Instead of
lying down in a dark room for the several hours it
takes until the migraine episode is finished, I
turned to the only one who could possibly help me.
My mind and heart were filled with prayers
throughout the duration of this project, and God
sustained me the entire time, enabling me to
complete the assignment with time to spare.

Beloved, God is the only one who can keep us going.
Those of us who cope with chronic pain can often be
filled with frustration about what we can no longer
do. We wake up each day with little or no energy and
long for something to enliven us like those
batteries in that bunny. Rather than thinking about
your declining health, remember the words of the
Psalmist: "the Lord is the one who sustains me."

God is the lover of our souls and our ultimate
Helper!

Copyright © 2005 Anna M. Popescu

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Anna Popescu seeks to write as the Lord leads and
sustains her. She and her husband, Rick, share their
northern Arizona home with their Sheltie named Bleu.
Trusting in God as her stronghold, Anna lives with
several chronic illnesses, including fibromyalgia
and chronic fatigue syndrome. Please visit her Web
site at  http://www.annapopescu.com .

TODAY'S TIDBIT:
50% off a hardcover book about Michelle Aker's story;
World-famous soccer player who lives with chronic
fatigue syndrome founded a ministry to spread the Christian
message through soccer. Just $10, reg $20.
http://www.restministries.org/comfortzone/item162.htm

---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~

TODAY'S TALKBACK:
Tell us! If your church leadership asked you, "what can we
do better to reach out to the chronically ill?" what would
you say?
Send your response to: rest@...
or just hit 'reply.' Please include your name, illness,
& city/state.

---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~

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

God is My Help

Surely God is my help; the Lord is the one who
sustains me" (Psalm 54:4, NIV).

We've all seen the TV commercials about the
drum-carrying pink bunny that claims to keep going
and going because of the special batteries in its
power pack. The advertisers make a point of saying
that this particular brand of batteries works better
than any other to keep the bunny marching and
pounding his drum longer than the competitors'
brands.

We live in a world filled with gimmicks to keep us
younger, healthier, or more glamorous. The media
bombards us with ideas and images of ways to cope
with our families, jobs, and the world at large. It
is easy to get caught up in thinking that we can't
get by without owning the latest gadget.

Last month, God showed me something new about
myself. In the midst of a writing assignment with a
tight deadline, my body waged a war with
weather-related migraine headaches. Because of this
deadline, I needed to keep on working even through
the pain and nausea of these migraines. Instead of
lying down in a dark room for the several hours it
takes until the migraine episode is finished, I
turned to the only one who could possibly help me.
My mind and heart were filled with prayers
throughout the duration of this project, and God
sustained me the entire time, enabling me to
complete the assignment with time to spare.

Beloved, God is the only one who can keep us going.
Those of us who cope with chronic pain can often be
filled with frustration about what we can no longer
do. We wake up each day with little or no energy and
long for something to enliven us like those
batteries in that bunny. Rather than thinking about
your declining health, remember the words of the
Psalmist: "the Lord is the one who sustains me."

God is the lover of our souls and our ultimate
Helper!

Copyright © 2005 Anna M. Popescu

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Anna Popescu seeks to write as the Lord leads and
sustains her. She and her husband, Rick, share their
northern Arizona home with their Sheltie named Bleu.
Trusting in God as her stronghold, Anna lives with
several chronic illnesses, including fibromyalgia
and chronic fatigue syndrome. Please visit her Web
site at  http://www.annapopescu.com .

TODAY'S TIDBIT:
50% off a hardcover book about Michelle Aker's story;
World-famous soccer player who lives with chronic
fatigue syndrome founded a ministry to spread the Christian
message through soccer. Just $10, reg $20.
http://www.restministries.org/comfortzone/item162.htm

---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~

TODAY'S TALKBACK:
Tell us! If your church leadership asked you, "what can we
do better to reach out to the chronically ill?" what would
you say?
Send your response to: rest@...
or just hit 'reply.' Please include your name, illness,
& city/state.

---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~

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

"I want to know Christ and the power of His
resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in His
sufferings, becoming like Him in His death."
(Philippians 3:10 NIV)

I think most believers would nod their heads at
the first part of this verse. Of course we want to
know Christ better and you bet, we get excited
about His resurrection. What many of us don't want
to think about is the "sharing in His sufferings"
part of the verse!

Unfortunately for many of us enduring chronic
illness, we are living in this part of the verse.
Except in the case of religious persecution, our
sufferings are most likely not related to our faith,
however, the way we deal with them definitely is a
reflection of what we believe. There are times when
the most courageous thing we can do is to open our
eyes in the morning. How we respond to the
adversities that come our way speaks volumes.

Are we annoyed that the rest of the world seems so
blind to the gift of health?

Beloved, know that what you are going through
matters to God. Jesus loves you so much. He is
placing a lot of trust in you - that when you hurt,
you will still look to Him for deliverance. After
all, His power is made perfect in our weakness! (2
Cor. 12:9)

******************************************

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Christy Brewster lives
on the Oregon Coast with her husband, Dan. They
have two adult children and a huge male cat named
Ms. Kitty. Christy lives with MS and Diabetes.

---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~

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

---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~

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.

---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~

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 the LORD takes delight in His people; He crowns
the humble with salvation. Let the saints rejoice in
this honor and sing for joy on their beds." Psalm
149: 4-5  NIV

"On my bed I remember You; I think of You through
the watches of the night. Because You are my help, I
sing in the shadow of Your wings. My soul clings to
You; Your right hand upholds me." Psalm 63: 6-8  NIV


While recovering from the flu one time, all I could
do was lie down and try to rest. This time my body
was having a difficult time handling this illness.
With being so weak and needing encouragement I
turned to the LORD in prayer.

"Father I come to You and thank You for being here
when I need You. I don't understand this time of
illness and I am so weak. Father I hold onto Your
promises that You see me, and know all that is
happening at this very moment. Please surround me
with Your healing care and give me the strength I
need at this time. I believe Father that You can
help me and will bring the comfort I need. In Jesus
name. Amen."

I realized after I had prayed that many times I find
that I need to rest during the day from the chronic
illness' I have been diagnosed with. This will stop
me from doing a lot of things - all but one - I can
still go to the LORD and praise Him and always lift
up my prayers to Him for He is always here with me.
________________________________________

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Bonnie Hall lives in Indiana. She seeks the Lord's
help daily as she manages Celiac Sprue,
Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue, and Arthritis. You
are welcome to visit her web page:
http://www.geocities.com/moments_of_hope/ministry.html


TODAY'S TIDBIT:
Get a F-R-E-E book with $10 purchase! Visit Rest Ministries'
Bookstore and with any $10 purchase (magazine subscription and
postage excluded) you will automatically receive the book,
"The Way to the Rainbow." See more at
http://www.comfortzonebooks.com

---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~

TODAY'S TALKBACK:
Finish this sentence and then send us your response: I'm proud
of the way I have handled my illness in the following way_______.
Send your response to: rest@...
or just hit 'reply.' Please include your name, illness,
& city/state.

---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~

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

"But God said to him, 'You fool! This very night
your life will be demanded from you. Then who will
get what you have prepared for yourself?'" (Luke
12:20 NIV)

In my younger days, I had big plans for my husband
and me. I was going to live the good life, and be
carefree and happy, retiring when old age came upon
us.

I figured when Bill and I reached "that time" we
would sell our business and move to Florida. I would
be one of those bronze "grannies" you see walking
the beach, in my bathing suit and wrinkled skin, not
caring what the world thought about me,.

But my life took a different path when at
twenty-nine I found myself diagnosed with a disease
I had never heard of before.

I found, as time passed, I was unable to walk, let
alone maneuver on the white sandy beaches of the
gulf coast that I loved.

I soon learned that many of the plans I had
foreseen in my younger days were not to be
realized. Not only retirement in Florida was
scratched from my things-to-do-list, but many of the
dreams I had for the future were to be unfulfilled.

Yet, as I have reached retirement age, I am busier
and happier than ever, despite being on unable to
walk and riding on a three-wheel scooter. God has
opened up many doors for me, and has given me words
to write.

We can prepare for our future, but if our future
doesn't work out, because of health problems or
other circumstances, then what?

God, I have found, always opens a window for us
when a door has been closed. If we go through, even
if we have to crawl, trusting Him, our life can be
better than anything we had ever planned or
envisioned.

Entrust your future, your health and your life and
happiness, to God; let Him make something exquisite
out of all the broken pieces.

**************************************************
Betty King is an author of two books, It Takes Two
Mountains to Make a Valley, and But - It Was in the
Valleys I Grew. She has lived with MS for thirty-seven years.
Visit her website at www.bettyking.net or email her at
baking2@... .
---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~

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

---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---

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.

---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~

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

"Trust in Him at all times, O people; pour out your
hearts to Him, for God is our refuge." (Psalm 62: 8, NIV)

We sang the hymn "Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus" a few
weeks ago.  The words of this song always touch my heart.
Lately, I have not been feeling well and just hearing
the words renewed my spirit.  It reminded me that I need
to put my trust in Jesus, not in myself, or in
medications, or in doctors.  Even though God may use
those things in my life – my trust needs to be in Him
first.

I did a little research and learned that the writer of
this hymn, Louisa Stead (1850-1917), wrote the words to
this piece after watching her husband die while trying
\to save a drowning boy. She was left to raise her four
year old alone (her daughter also saw the drowning).

Later in life, Louisa moved to South Africa, remarried
and led a missionary life.  I was astounded to learn
the circumstances this song was written from.  I can't
imagine writing such beautiful words after such a
terrible event.  Louisa has truly inspired me in my own
life – to truly learn to trust in Jesus no matter what
the circumstances, whether good or bad.  God deserves
our praise for everything, all the time.  Enjoy the
words of "Tis So Sweet To Trust in Jesus" and be
renewed.


Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus,
Just to take Him at his word,
Just to rest upon His promise,
Just to know, "Thus saith the Lord."

I'm so glad I learned to trust thee,
Precious Jesus, Savior, Friend;
And I know that thou art with me.
Wilt be with me to the end.

Jesus, Jesus, how I trust Him!
How I've proved Him o'er and o'er.
Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus!
O' for grace to trust Him more!
- Louisa Stead

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Author, missionary, craftswoman, teacher, Administrative
Assistant, and now-Aunt, Bridget Gazlay keeps very busy
in Michigan!  She likes to write during her quiet-time
with God.  She lives with Fibromyalgia, Endometriosis
and migraines.  Bridget looks to God as her hope and
strength. Feel free to check out her website
(http://home.ccci.org/gazlay) or send her an email,
b4fabric-devotional@.... Bridget's first craft
book came out in June!

---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~

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

---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~

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

---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~

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

"I will put my trust in Him."(Hebrews 2:13 NIV)
Have you ever had one of those experiences in life
where you know the Lord is speaking directly to you
and you had better take heed! I have spent most of
today on the telephone, trying to fill one of
my husband's most expensive medications for his
Parkinsons Disease. After talking to this person
and that person, then calling another number and
talking to this person and that person, we finally
arrived at the conclusion that the refill script
did not make it to their destination through the
mail yet and we will have to buy two more weeks of
this med before any arrives from the pharmaceutical
company.

Well, they might as well have told me to shoot myself
in the leg.....we do not have the funds for filling
anymore meds right now. Here we thought we were
finally getting caught up on payments and have enough
groceries and medicine for the month. Then this happens!
I was so angry, and in a huff drove to a local store
where I could buy two weeks of this med to make it
until the other arrives by mail. I spoke with the
pharmacist and turned to leave. Leaning heavily on my
cart, I tried to push through the throng of customers
coming in as I was going out. In front of me was a
determined elderly woman with a stack of boxes on
her cart, also trying to maneuver her way outside.
I walked up behind her and ask if I could help.

Following her to her car, I ask if she were moving.
Thirty minutes and one sunburned face later, I drove
away thanking the Lord for my life and saying over
and over,"I do not want to be like that!" What a
terrible negative attitude she had....why, I had not
heard most of the obscenities she used to describe
her family! I could hear the Lord saying to me over
and over....you have a choice....you can be "grumpy"
like this woman or you can trust in Me to find a way
to pay for this needed medication. I chose trusting
in God! What a wakup call about how life should
be and how we need to give our troubles to the LORD.

I treated myself to a popsicle as I unloaded my tension

filled day on to my husband. He smiled and took my
hand. We prayed together to let Christ fill our hearts
and to not let our stress get the better of us.
Thank you LORD for today and for showing me the way.

*****************************************************
About the author: Nancy Carr lives in western Kansas.
She has had to retire from teaching elementary music
because of Degenerative Disc Disease. She is learning
life's lessons from a very loving husband and family
and friends and thanks the LORD for all He has done
for her each day.

---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~

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

---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~

TODAY'S TALKBACK:
   If money was no object I would. . . Tell us what you
   would do, buy, etc.  Send your response to:
rest@...
   or just hit 'reply.' Please include your name, illness,
   & city/state.

---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~

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

"Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and
certain of what we do not see. This is what the
ancients were commended for." ~ Hebrews 11:1 NIV

I watched a truly inspirational movie one evening
with my boys. It is called "Rudy", the story of a
young man who dreamed of playing football with the
fighting Irish of Notre Dame, only to be told by
his family he would never make it. Even his father
threw cold water on his ambition to follow his dream.
Undeterred however, he went to South Bend, giving up
his fiancé' and steady job at his father's steel mill.
He chose to chase his dream.

I was in awe of the many people outside his circle of
influence who were just watching from a distance. They
saw rugged determination and heart and that Rudy's
positive stay-in-there-ed-ness would never say die!
Lives were changed for the better as a result! Rudy's
five younger brothers even went on to get degrees from
Notre Dame after him. The dreary chain of mediocrity
in his family was broken!

I don't know what awaits me around the corner, but God
has placed within me dreams of accomplishment. What
steps am I taking now that will help me reach the goal?
Am I merely coasting in neutral, believing life has
passed me by? Wait a minute,I am still breathing! I am
alive and just because my body hurts all the time, does
not mean I cannot achieve a greater good in this life!

I am a light to this world, not only to my immediate
circle of influence, but also to others who only observe
from a distance. What are my life passions and pursuits
telling them? One never knows who may be guided into a
miraculous relationship with Jesus Christ because of
the choices I make today as I chase my God-given dreams!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
About the Author:

Pastor Greg Harvey lives in Kansas City with his wife and
two teen sons. He manages the pain of DDD and his wife
deals with chronic RA. Both are disabled but refuse to
give up. Greg's book entitled, "Finding God Faithful in
Turbulent Times" is now available and my be obtained by
requesting a copy at gaharvey@...

---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~

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

---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~

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.

---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~---~


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