Kind Words Do Wonders: A Devotion

And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.

Ephesians 4:32

Oh, my, what's better than a kind word spoken or a gentle act of love to cheer the heart?

I was in the checkout line at Wal-mart the other day, and when I got ready to leave, I looked at the clerk and said, "You have a nice day."

She glanced at me, a bit of surprise on her face. Her lips widened in a smile and she said something like this: "Thank you. You are always so nice."

I'm not totally sure how it affected her, if she cared, or even if she needed the words of kindness. But, oh, they affected me. My own words. And her answer. From a drab day to a day that's like:

a fire sparkler sky,

An anchor is a storm-driven sea,

A ride on an old bicycle on a summer day,

Sunshine on a forest path after a week of rain,

Mustard seeds at the local grocery, reminding us to have faith.

Faith in ourselves, our kind words, our fellowman, our God.

We sure won't go wrong with those! 

Happy day! 

***

Book Three in the Appleton, WV Romantic Mystery series

It wouldn't hurt for Caroline to learn a little more kindness...

What's It About?

Co-owner of Undiscovered Treasures, Caroline Gibson particularly relates to the ballerina music box: forever spinning and never going anywhere. But when her dream prince appears, she's sure her prayers have been answered. Trouble is, even though family and friends hint that the local artist is the guy for her, Caroline takes matters into her own hands.

Andrew Carrington has loved Caroline since they were kids. But when contracts suddenly arrive begging for his signature, Andy thinks this just might be the way to win the only woman he can ever love.

And then there's the hitch in both their plans. Someone is stealing Andy's paintings, and why would they when he's an unknown so far? Is something deeper going on neither understand? Caroline must put aside her on-going battle to avoid Andy and his art so they can discover the art thief in Appleton.

BUY THE BOOK:

Amazon

About Carole:

Besides being an active participant in many writing groups, Carole is an award-winning author and enjoys mentoring beginning writers. She loves to weave suspense, tough topics, romance, and whimsy into her books and is always on the lookout for outstanding titles and catchy ideas. She and her husband reside in SE Ohio but have ministered and counseled nationally and internationally. Together, they enjoy their grandsons, traveling, gardening, good food, the simple life, and did she mention their grandsons? 

Personal blog: http://sunnebnkwrtr.blogspot.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CaroleBrown.author

Amazon Author Page:  http://www.amazon.com/Carole-Brown/e/B00EZV4RFY/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1427898838&sr=8-1

BookBub:  https://www.bookbub.com/authors/carole-brown

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/browncarole212

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/sunnywrtr/boards/

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/5237997-carole-brown

Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/carole-brown-79b6951a?trk=nav_responsive_tab_profile

Stitches in Time:  http://stitchesthrutime.blogspot.com

Devotion: Resting in Him

When All Else Fails:

God Doesn't!

When We Don't Understand

God Does!

When the path is dark before us,

God sends the light!

God is Good

All the Time!

Truly my soul finds rest in God.

Psalm 62:1

Blessings!

***

The Redemption of Caralynne Hayman

Caralynne Hayman is angry and bitter over the abuse and death of her eleven-year-old daughter from the hands of her religious group, The Children of Righteous Cain. When her husband suffers a sudden heart attack, she does nothing to help him. In her eyes, someone needs to pay, and if that means all of the men in the group, then so be it.

Dayne MacFarland is sent away to college by the senior elder of the group to learn ministry. When he returns after finding salvation, determined to bring the truth to the people he’s known all his life, he rediscovers Cara and realizes the love he once felt for her is still deeply embedded within his heart.

Dayne faces men unwilling to turn their backs on the cult training he despises. Cara faces men who follow their leader in abuse toward their wives and the young girls of the group. Cara is considered rebellious and inappropriate to befriend. Dayne is the apple of Elder Simmons’ eye—until he takes a stand against their teachings.

Can Dayne's love for Caralynne bridge the gulf of anger and bitterness that divides the community? Or will Caralynne's deadly secrets prove too high a price for her redemption?

Purchase here:

https://www.amazon.com/Redemption-Caralynne-Hayman-Carole-Brown-ebook/dp/B01H2TUCZE/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8

Devotion: When Troubles Surround You

So do not fear, for I am with you

do not be dismayed, for I am your God,

I will strengthen you and help you,

I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Isaiah 41:10

Do you ever feel overwhelmed by the problems in your life?

Do you ever get that sinking feeling that you'll not make it through 

the troubles you're going through?

Have your friends forsaken you or turned their backs on you?

Are you disappointed at other people's reactions?

Don't fret!

God has our back. 

Hold your head high.

Lift your hands in praise.

Sing!

Shout!

Rejoice!

Today, I was disappointed in friends actions when one person 

asked them to share.

I wanted to correct them, rebuke them,

argue with them.

Sometimes we do get disappointed

or hurt or upset.

But I've purposed in my heart to:

not allow that disappointment in others to keep me down.

I will lift up my head and rejoice.

I will sing when the tears come.

I will shout a hallelujah to heaven!

Because...

I know God will strengthen me

He'll uphold my with his hand.

For he is my God!

Rejoice!

The Older Versus the Younger

Our boys were just tots--little things. 

We'd moved to a new location, 

with my husband beginning a new pastorate in a nice little community with a good church. 

There was a sweet park with plenty of children activities provided,

including swings, slides and a fun-looking fire truck.

Stepping onto the park grounds, 

we set the boys on their feet to toddle toward

whatever toy activity that caught their eye,

their dad and me on their heels for protection and guard duty.

Our youngest son, barely over one year,

moseyed away,

but the three-year-old--

hesitated,

then cried,

refusing to take a step,

refusing the fun ahead of him,

refusing to enjoy what we'd offered.

Why?

We still have no clue.

Son #1 has always been confident in his own decisions.

He's always seemed to be friendly and outgoing, smart and discerning.

Was it the newness of the place?

Had he sensed something wrong, out of place, different

that perhaps we, adults, had not?

We'll never know.

But as a lesson,

it tells me, that we are sometimes afraid 

of new things,

different things,

unknown people,

and paths we've not trod.

But...

with certainty and faith

we can trust God,

the all-seeing,

all-knowing God.

Who always has our backs!

What strange thing has your child done in the past that makes you wonder 

why he showed such out of character action?


***

Starli Cameron gave up her career plans to be a concert pianist to marry the man of her dreams. He turned out to be a nightmare. When he dies in a car accident, Starli takes the insurance money and builds a successful and upscale restaurant: Apple Blossoms in rural West Virginia. Threats from someone determined to ruin her life and the suspicious romantic advances from her new chef force Starli to search her heart and finally turn to God for real healing.

Sir Joel Peterman-Blair, top notch chef from England, is roped by his uncle, into filling in as head Chef at Apple Blossoms. Joel, with his sanguine-personality, has always laughed and flirted his way through life. But now, confronted with and attracted to the most beautiful woman he’s ever met, Joel has to prove his sincerity and depth of character to his icy-cold employer. Can his love for God and for this woman reach out far enough to rescue her from her own mistrust and bitterness? Will he learn that life is not all play?

And can they both work together to find the source of threats that seem to be coming from Starli’s past?

Buy the book:

https://www.amazon.com/Carole-Brown/e/B00EZV4RFY/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1492661357&sr=1-1

***

About Carole:

Besides being an active participant in many writing groups, Carole is an award-winning author and enjoys mentoring beginning writers. She loves to weave suspense, tough topics, romance, and whimsy into her books and is always on the lookout for outstanding titles and catchy ideas. She and her husband reside in SE Ohio but have ministered and counseled nationally and internationally. Together, they enjoy their grandsons, traveling, gardening, good food, the simple life, and did she mention their grandsons? 

Personal blog: http://sunnebnkwrtr.blogspot.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CaroleBrown.author

Amazon Author Page:  http://www.amazon.com/Carole-Brown/e/B00EZV4RFY/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1427898838&sr=8-1

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/browncarole212

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/sunnywrtr/boards/

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/5237997-carole-brown

Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/carole-brown-79b6951a?trk=nav_responsive_tab_profile

Google+:    https://plus.google.com/u/0/113068871986311965415/posts

Word Sharpeners: https://wordsharpeners.wordpress.com/

Stitches in Time:  http://stitchesthrutime.blogspot.com/

Embrace the Process by Jamin Baldwin

During a conversation, my sister and I had a discussion about the shameful disrepair of our road. 

Complaining about the potholes large enough to swallow the front end of your vehicle, 

littering miles and miles of roadways. 

   As, much as we want it to be fixed, 

I commented, that as soon as the road crews start blocking off streets 

in order to make the necessary repairs, 

someone will start bellyaching about being delayed,

or whine because their day was interrupted by a vested worker holding a 'stop' sign.

    Fast forward: 

Two days later, driving to an appointment, my sister and I encounter a "road work ahead" sign. 

Groaning, we drove a little further and saw another sign that read, 'flagger ahead'. 

   After an initial sigh and an exclamation of frustration, we began to laugh. 

We were the people we had been talking about, two days previously.

   Thinking about that, this morning, I saw a pattern in my life. 

I do the same to God. I complain about a situation, complain about a circumstance, 

and then grouse and grump because God begins the process of fixing it. 

    I pray for God to use me and then complain when people keep calling to ask for my help. 

I pray for doors to open and whine because I feel overwhelmed.

   Embarking on a personal journey of my own,  several years ago.

 I found myself becoming impatient. 

In my frustration, 

God spoke to me and told me, 'Don't despise the process.'

   Maybe, you're taking steps toward recovery. 

Don't despise the process.

   Maybe, you're trying to better yourself physically or spiritually. 

Don't despise the process.

   Nothing goes from disrepair to mended, without a little effort.

   Don't despise the process. 

Embrace the progress. 

About Jamin:

I have many writing passions, Historical romance and poetry topping my list of favorites. I also enjoy brainstorming and critiquing with other writers.

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/jaminchristianbaldwin/

Be Careful What You Wish For from Jamin Baldwin

'Be careful what you wish for'.

 We've all heard it before. 

But, what about, Be careful what you pray for? 

Now, that's not a phrase commonly heard.

    I know, in my own life, I've plowed down a road, I wholeheartedly believed to be God ordained. 

But, once I see the monumental task before me, 

I start to wonder if this was truly His plan for me, or merely one of my own.

   I recently began to wonder if Abraham and Sarah ever wondered- 

What in the world were we thinking?

   At 105 years old, chasing around a lively toddler, 

I wonder if in their weariness they ever asked themselves if this had been God's plan for their life. 

The fact that they may have become weary, didn't mean God wasn't in it.

   Remember this: Isaac was a cornerstone in the lineage of Jesus, 

Our Savior. A patriarch of the Israelites. 

I believe this is why the Bible tells us not to be weary in well doing.

    Let's face it, there are going to be days when you are tired. 

When you want to throw in the proverbial towel and question your own sanity.

    But, in those moments, remember...

    You may just be building a foundation on which Christ will one day stand. 

Take courage, Dear Heart, and stay the course. 

    God lit this flame inside you because He knew you wouldn't quit.

    Don't let it flicker out.

About Jamin:

I have many writing passions, Historical romance and poetry topping my list of favorites. I also enjoy brainstorming and critiquing with other writers.

God's Plans by Carole Brown

For I know the plans I have for you, 

declares the Lord, 

plans to prosper you and not to harm you, 

plans to give you hope and a future.

Jeremiah 29:11

When I doubt, 

God assures me through his Word

He loves me.

When I'm in trouble

God says he has this.

He stills the storms

and soothes my heart.

When I feel alone,

God says, "I'm all you need."

Or he sends someone with

a smile,

A word of encouragement,

a hug.

He's showing his love through others.

When I feel discouraged

He sends small, tiny and insignificant blessings to cheer me:

hardy Spring flowers that shed a bit of sunshine:

a towel elephant that made me smile:

Memories with Grandson:

I'm so happy that I can rest in peace,

knowing he has PLANS for me.

plans to PROSPER me:

in his time and in his will,

Plans for a future and hope!

Wonderful words of love. 

Rest assured, he loves us!

***

Starli Cameron gave up her career plans to be a concert pianist to marry the man of her dreams. He turned out to be a nightmare. When he dies in a car accident, Starli takes the insurance money and builds a successful and upscale restaurant: Apple Blossoms in rural West Virginia. Threats from someone determined to ruin her life and the suspicious romantic advances from her new chef force Starli to search her heart and finally turn to God for real healing.

Sir Joel Peterman-Blair, top notch chef from England, is roped by his uncle, into filling in as head Chef at Apple Blossoms. Joel, with his sanguine-personality, has always laughed and flirted his way through life. But now, confronted with and attracted to the most beautiful woman he’s ever met, Joel has to prove his sincerity and depth of character to his icy-cold employer. Can his love for God and for this woman reach out far enough to rescue her from her own mistrust and bitterness? Will he learn that life is not all play?

And can they both work together to find the source of threats that seem to be coming from Starli’s past?

Buy the book:

https://www.amazon.com/Carole-Brown/e/B00EZV4RFY/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1492661357&sr=1-1

***

About Carole:

Besides being an active participant in many writing groups, Carole is an award-winning author and enjoys mentoring beginning writers. She loves to weave suspense, tough topics, romance, and whimsy into her books and is always on the lookout for outstanding titles and catchy ideas. She and her husband reside in SE Ohio but have ministered and counseled nationally and internationally. Together, they enjoy their grandsons, traveling, gardening, good food, the simple life, and did she mention their grandsons? 

Personal blog: http://sunnebnkwrtr.blogspot.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CaroleBrown.author

Amazon Author Page:  http://www.amazon.com/Carole-Brown/e/B00EZV4RFY/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1427898838&sr=8-1

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/browncarole212

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/sunnywrtr/boards/

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/5237997-carole-brown

Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/carole-brown-79b6951a?trk=nav_responsive_tab_profile

Google+:    https://plus.google.com/u/0/113068871986311965415/posts

Word Sharpeners: https://wordsharpeners.wordpress.com/

Stitches in Time:  http://stitchesthrutime.blogspot.com/

In Times Like These: a Devotion

Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial,

because when he has stood the test,

he will receive the crown of life

that God has promised to those who love him.

James 1:12

There's an old, old song that an elderly gentleman in our church sings now and then.

It's called:  "In Times Like These"

The last verse goes like this:

In times like these, I have a Savior 
In times like these, I have an anchor 
I'm very sure, I'm very sure 
My anchor holds and grips the Solid Rock 

One of the main things we can do when going through trials

is to keep our focus on God.

Sometimes, life on this earth is an endurance test.

We're shocked, disappointed, hurt and confused

over problems, cares and trials that come into our lives.

It's hard at those times to "count it all pleasure"

because it's not.

Yet, when we look at God's promise to us--

A CROWN OF LIFE!--

one that will last forever. 

Unlike the ancient athletes who were given, many times,

wreaths that perished,

ours will never fade nor be destroyed.

It's a guarantee.

It's a promise.

From one who never breaks a promise!

And when the Chief Shepherd appears, 

you will receive the crown of glory,

that will never fade away.

--I Peter 5:4

***

LOVE to Read?

I have a giveaway offer for you!

I'll be posting twice this month on Stitches through Time.

Just comment on both posts,

and I will choose one person to receive a Kindle copy of their choice of

one of my Appleton, WV Romantic Mysteries. 

(Sabotaged Christmas,

Knight in Shining Apron,

Undiscovered Treasures,

Toby's Troubles)

Here's the link to check them out:

https://www.amazon.com/Carole-Brown/e/B00EZV4RFY/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1492661357&sr=1-1

About Carole:

Besides being an active participant in many writing groups, Carole is an award-winning author and enjoys mentoring beginning writers. She loves to weave suspense, tough topics, romance, and whimsy into her books and is always on the lookout for outstanding titles and catchy ideas. She and her husband reside in SE Ohio but have ministered and counseled nationally and internationally. Together, they enjoy their grandsons, traveling, gardening, good food, the simple life, and did she mention their grandsons? 

Personal blog: http://sunnebnkwrtr.blogspot.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CaroleBrown.author

Amazon Author Page:  http://www.amazon.com/Carole-Brown/e/B00EZV4RFY/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1427898838&sr=8-1

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/browncarole212

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/sunnywrtr/boards/

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/5237997-carole-brown

Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/carole-brown-79b6951a?trk=nav_responsive_tab_profile

Google+:    https://plus.google.com/u/0/113068871986311965415/posts

Word Sharpeners: https://wordsharpeners.wordpress.com/

Stitches in Time:  http://stitchesthrutime.blogspot.com/