Children, Animals, NLO, and Babies!

I have so missed blogging and promise to get back to it! 

It has been a whirlwind around here the last four weeks!

Kayla was home visiting for two weeks, kids had therapy appointments, and we started our THIRD set of rescue pups!   SouthBARK has been FANTASTIC at providing financially for these pups and continue to take care of Momma Dog's expenses as well.  She had to have emergency surgery for a rotten uterus while Kayla was here also!  Then we had another pup with a hernia the size of a golf ball that had to have emergency surgery this last week and NOW, we have two precious puppies with the dreaded Parvo.  I am praying the other five do not catch it. 

I hated to see Kayla go, but I know she will come back when she can.  She calls regularly and texting is always a plus!  She has an interview tomorrow for a job; please pray for her that the Lord would have His way.

Christopher developed full body tics last week; horrible to see it.  We believe they were triggered by a very bad emotional and embarrassing experience that morning; won't get in to it, but it was devastating for my little guy.  Because of Christopher's aggression issues, we are weaning him off of several of his meds.  The number one side effect on all of his meds is aggression.  We are weaning him because they are unfortunately addictive drugs.  We are trying some natural oil supplements that I purchased last year and never did anything with; I will share more about that later, but am trusting the Lord will provide for them.  Insurance doesn't cover them, and lets face it, we are below the poverty level with no income for 19 months now.

Several people have asked me about my involvement, or lack of recently, in Nothing Lost Outreach.  For months God allowed me to be an active part of providing clothing for the homeless.  When my daughter's sensory and anxiety problems became more and more of an issue, I had to make some cuts.  My prayer began that God would show me what to cut and what to keep and grace to walk through the tough choices.  Not only did He make it clear that I needed to reduce my AVON customer load, but that my time at home was what was needed.  My first thought, well, argument with God was, "I am home SIX days a week, what's the BIG DEAL about Sunday afternoons!"  So I went in disobedience.  My heart wanted to be there so bad, that I disobeyed God and put others before my family.  My heart still yearns to be involved; and while I don't have a huge room full of clothes for the homeless anymore, I do still have items on hand to distribute when I can, and still play an active roll in praying for this phenomenal ministry.  I do not know why God put this ministry on my heart, just to yank it out from under me, but what I do know, is that God gives us scriptural references that our priorities are to be Him, family, and then others.  My family needs me more than anything right now, so my hope, my prayer, is that God would honor this momma's heart in trying to be obedient to the calling He has given me, my family.

Thanks for stopping by today, and will add lots of pics soon!

OH!  OH!  OH!   My sister had her babies also!  She had them while Kayla was here!  They were four weeks EARLY, but are wonderful and are ALL HOME NOW!  I am adding a picture of her with both babies!

Congratulations to my beautiful, beautiful sister, Michelle, and brother in law, Ron on the birth of these beautiful baby girls!



Christmas Day Serving Opportunity

I need help on Christmas Day to serve and clean the kitchen at Nothing Lost Outreach.
We will be serving a meal that has been prepared by Waterfront Mission beginning at 2:30.

If you are available to serve, I need you there at 1:30. The food will arrive at 2:00; so there might be some standing around time but I need hands available for me to delegate so I can be with our guests. From 2 to 2:30 we will be scrambling to keep the food warm and serve.

We need food servers and meal servers. At NLO we have servants that serve our guests their meal. They do not go through the line.

The clean up should be minimal which brings me to the next need, clean up crew!

IF you are available, please respond so I can see where the needs lie.

There will be NO showers, haircuts or clothing distribution on Christmas Day. We will have a worship and devotion time beginning at 3:30.

I will have minimal clothing for emergency situations, ie blankets, sleeping bags, shoes, and jackets. Please begin praying the Lord would quicken my spirit for particular needs as He did on Thanksgiving!

Thank you for being the hands and feet of Jesus.

Please email me at thepadens@cox.net if you are interested in serving. 

Thank you!

There is Gonna Be A PARTAY!

A dear friend of mine came to serve at Nothing Lost Outreach on Thanksgiving Day.  After one visit, just like so many others, she saw the very Hand of God and she knew she wanted to be a part.

Please read the following invitation she has made to each and every one of you.  It is lengthy, but it is important you read every word.

IF you have a blog, I ask you to please share this post.  Lets take this nation wide, and provide for the men and women on the streets.

On Thanksgiving Day, the City of Pensacola Police Department went through all the camps (in the City), giving them 24 hours to get out or have their belongings burned. 

There are hundreds and hundreds with nothing. 

Here is your invitation and a list of gifts she would like to have . . . .

I will be 50 years old in 50 days! How exciting! 

This time, I'd like to do something different. 

I want presents!!! 

Lots of them!!! 

Since Christmas is coming, I'm sure many of you would like to upgrade some things at your home. If so, I'd like your old bicycles, tents, blankets and clothes. 

Don't forget shoes - work boots are great! 

I'd also like some socks and new underwear - ladies and men's sizes small - large.  NEW PLEASE!

Adult medium size Depends would be cool! 

Jackets and coats would be on my list too.  

I'd also like a few dog kennels - 2 large ones and 2 small ones. 

I would like your paper bags from the grocery store and some storage tubs.

Do you have any shelves that I can have??? 

I would like to have some chain link and posts to build a kennel or two or three.  I'll probably need a few bags of quickcrete for that too. And I'll need whatever it is that you use to connect the chain link to the posts! 

I know that I'm asking a for a lot, but I'm asking for a good reason. 

You may have a lot of this stuff just laying around. 

If you would like to bless me with a few birthday presents, you could drop them by the church where I work - Robin Pitsenbarger, C/O Pine Summit Baptist Church, 2920 Bellview Ave., Pensacola, FL, 32526. 

If you had stuff to mail, you could use the same address. I'm so flexible (call me Gumby!) that I'll come pick it up!

Now let me tell you about my Thanksgiving Day.

I went to Nothing Lost Outreach to serve Thanksgiving dinner to some homeless folks. I met Gunny and Walt there. Gunny needed some new pants, socks and some Depends. He has some health issues and hospice was able to give him a walker. Walt was there looking out for Gunny. I heard later from my friend Stacey that when everything was over and she was going home, she saw Gunny going down the road and he gave his extra food we had given him to another homeless guy on the side of the road.

I also met Jay. He needed some boots and God had let Stacey know she needed to bring them that day even though she didn't know anyone needed them (the exact size).

I went back over there today. I wanted to make sure that Jay got a tent. I had found only 2 at Wal-Mart the other day for $16.88 each.

There was another guy that needed a tent so I decided to run over to the Wal-Mart on 29, which is right around the corner. They didn't have any 2-man tents. The next size up was $34.88.

Did I mention that it's raining outside today? 

My heart was broken. 

I picked up a tarp for $20 and headed to the cashier. 

She had on those silly reindeer antlers. I told her that she was the first thing that made me smile in that store and I needed one. She asked me if I found everything I needed and I told her no, I hadn't found anything that I needed. She asked what I was looking for and I told her. She called over another lady who had them check in the back of the store. She then called the manager over. He went in the back and then called up front for me to go back to the sports section. 

He asked me if the 4-man tents would do - for $16.88! 

He gave me 2 of them for that price!!!!!

I was in tears by that time. You see, it's not just about being able to help someone else out, it's about how often I see Jesus in the people that selflessly help out a stranger. 

I know some of the things on my list sound strange, like the kennels; BUT, folks can't bring their dogs in. I really don't want them to miss out on hearing the gospel just because they can't bring their dogs. 

Will I be back next Sunday? Yes, my van already has another tent, some blankets, clothes and shoes in it. I can hardly wait!

Now, I know this is a pretty long note but I hope you have taken the time to read it. 

If, by chance, you have some cash left over, I wish that you would keep KlaasKIDS Search Center for Missing & Trafficked Children  on your mind and send them a donation. I have recently gone through some training with them and have more coming up. What a great group of people! You can send donations to: KlaasKIDS, 9260 Cove Ave,Pensacola, FL 32534.

Thank you for making this my best birthday ever! I've learned that it's not all about me, it's all about God!

Love each and every one of you!

NOW!  How is THAT for a life that has been changed by the very HAND OF GOD!

Let's make this the best birthday ever for Robin!

Give Them Jesus

A friend sent this song to me.  As I listened to the words, I thought, "She is singing my heart's prayer!"  Then I realized, she is singing about what Nothing Lost Outreach IS doing!

Praise God!

Give Them Jesus!

A Thanksgiving To Remember

Before I left this morning to head to Nothing Lost Outreach, the Lord sent me back into the house to get a pair of boots.  I continued to argue with the Lord because I have an order for a size 10 boot for someone that needs to be filled for Sunday; but the Lord insisted. 

I asked Him to show me specifically who the shoes were to be for; and that they would say, "I wear a size 10." 

We were not having showers, hair cuts or clothing distributed today; but sensed the need to take a few blankets, clothing, shoes and socks . . . . . just in case.  My thoughts were that the temps were dropping and "you never know."

But God knew.

A man walked up to me today that attended the first time last Sunday.  I figured he was looking for a tent I had told him we'd have for him; but he wasn't.  He asked me, "Do you have any shoes?"  I looked down, he was wearing sandals with socks.  I asked him, "What size do you wear?" (Knowing what he was about to tell me . . . )  "Size 10." 

It only took minutes to retrieve the boots from my car.

"Jay, do they fit?"  (which was a STUPID question!)  "They are a perfect fit.  I can't believe it."  "Jay, God knew you were going to need these shoes.  He had me go back in to the house and get them.  That is how special you are."

With that, he simply nodded in appreciation. 

Jay needs a tent.  I have a big five person tent, but Jay is by himself and needs a small one.  He wouldn't take the bigger one because he didn't want to take from someone else that would need the bigger one.  They are about $20 at Wal-Mart.  If you have one or would like to contribute, please email me at thepadenfamily@gmail.com.

I mentioned to one of the men (Bill) that participate in NLO regularly and that actually goes into the camps and shares the gospel with the homeless, that I brought a few blankets and coats if anyone approached him with a need.

Bill approached me later and asked if I had two blankets and possibly a sleeping bag for a guy he knows had what "stuff" stolen from him.  I told him I didn't remember bringing a sleeping bag, but I knew I had blankets.

When I opened the trunk of my car to get the two blankets, there was a blue sleeping bag.  I remember putting my hand on it at the house; remember pulling my hand away from it, but have no memory of putting it in the car.  When I got home, I asked Chris and he said it was on the box with the duffle bags, so he assumed I wanted it to go with me.

God knew Jay was going to need those size 10 boots; God knew Bill's friend needed a sleeping bag, blanket, a duffle bag, a pair of socks and a flashlight . . . God knew.

I was in awe today that God allowed me to see His hand.  He could have met those needs a million different way; yet He allowed me to be a part of it, so witness it.  Whew.  It's overwhelming.

God knows the numbers of hair on your head.  He knows what you are dealing with right now.  your grocery list needs and  He knows when your power bill is due.  He knows when where your next meal is coming from.  He knows . . . . your name!

I don't know what your need is; but I know the Lord will provide. 

Matthew 6: 25-34, "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?  Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life? And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own."  

Happy Thanksgiving!

Servants

When the Lord put a clothing ministry on my heart; I had no idea all the "wow" moments He would give me.

As clothing items are donated, there are some that need minor repairs; patches, hem pants, etc.

Only one problem.

I can't sew.

Sure, I can put a button on here and there; but anything else; not gonna happen. While it has been my hearts desire for years to learn, it hasn't been until this new season that the desire became a fire.

I took a sewing machine my mom had given me many, many years ago, to a friends house. She worked and worked and worked until finally all the "goo" (and it was nasty "goo") was gone and the machine was working . . . . well, sorta. One of the bobble thing-a-ma-gigs wasn't winding up something (see, I REALLY have no clue!).  After further investigation, the piece couldn't be repaired.

While I was disappointed that the machine wasn't going to work, I was still excited to watch and learn.

My friend spent several hours on her only day off working on the machine and then teaching me how to make stitches by hand in order to hem pants and make minor repairs.

While sitting at her dining room table, the Lord showed me just what was really happening.

Nothing Lost Outreach was happening.

This woman, took time from her family to help me, in order that I might help someone else through NLO. She didn't have to go to Ensley Baptist and serve; she didn't have to make bags, she didn't have to donate; she was simply serving and doing in the area she has been called to do.

God wants our obedience, not our sacrifice.  :)

With the clothing donations increasing, and my time becoming less and less; God showed me I was going to need help.

If you read a few days back, you know the phobia I have of people coming in my house.

Two days after posting that, I had three different people "pop in."  (Yes, God is definitely taking me to new areas of trust, love, and vulnerability (oh I don't like that word . . . )

So, today, a new friend (just met today) and an old friend came together to help me with all the donations.  I was able to do Christopher's schooling while they worked and worked!  They sorted enough that I will be fill many orders for this Sunday!



Indeed, what He has called us to do, He will equip us to do :)







100 Homeless Bags

Nothing Lost Outreach has set a goal for 100 bags to be distributed to the homeless on Christmas Day.

Each person/family can take us one step closer to our goal!

Items needed for homeless bags:

*Bag (My family is using a Wal-Mart Reusable Bag).
*Fleece Blanket (they go on sale throughout the Thanksgiving and Christmas Season!)
*1 Roll of T.P.
*Baby Wipes (Dollar Tree has a 3 pack for $1.00)
*Gloves
*Bottle of Water
*Snack Bag (chips, fruit cups with pop top lid, etc)
*Flashlight (Dollar Tree)
*Batteries (Dollar Tree)
*Hand warmer pack (I saw them at Wal-Mart for $1.47 each at the check out lane.)

Please contact me on fb or via email at thepadens@cox.net if you would like to contribute.

Thank you!

Stacey

Something I want to share real quick.  Throughout scripture we are told to take care of the poor, the down in out.  In Matthew 25:31-46, we are taught the judgement that will come to those that do not clothe, feed, and give drink to those in need.  What the Lord is revealing to me day in and day out is that the hungry and thirsty, those in need, are you and me.  While society definitely will not agree with me on this, many of the richest people in the world are poorest. 

We are all in need of food, clothing, and drink.

Maybe the Lord doesn't want you serving the homeless. 

Maybe you have been called to serve single mom's; or single dad's; senior citizens . . .  or maybe your family is where God has you serving right now. 

Make a difference in someone's life. 

We are all, every single one of us, are called to clothe, feed and give drink. 

Watching Life Unfold

I left this morning in a foul mood. 

The kids are singing in "big church" tomorrow night.  The only type pants Christopher wears are pants with elastic in them.  I hadn't been able to find ANY pants with elastic except for jogging suits; so that is what his wardrobe consists of; and shorts (with elastic) of course.  Kaitlyn's shoes are stained and wearing thin and with her sensory problems increasing; finding shoes and socks she can wear without an emotional break down is a miracle!  She's needed shoes desperately but I was hoping to stretch them out till Christmas . . . no such luck.

After running into Target and finding no pants or shoes in our price range; we made the dreaded run to Wal-Mart.  My frustration was mounting and the "Why's" and "Woe is me's" began to fill my mind.  Discontentment set it.

But . . . . God.

It was then, as I was driving west on Nine Mile Road, heading to Wal-Mart on Hwy 29 that I thought, "Why am I going to Wal-Mart on Hwy 29?  I always go to the Wal-Mart on Creighton?"  Instantly and out of the blue, the Lord reminded me of my prayer in my journal this morning.  It read, "Lord, please let me see Paula today.  It's cold, and you told me to give her (a particular coat that had been donated to Nothing Lost Outreach through a friend) that coat.  Please let me see her.  Please." 

I told Kayla (she was with me) about it and said, "Kayla, I have to find her today.  I don't know where she is and I've only seen her outside of NLO one time.  Lord, please let me see her." 

As you can imagine, my heart leapt with joy as I pulled into the turning lane on Nine Mile Road to turn left on Old Palafox as the thin, frail woman I know as Paula, began walking towards my car wearing only a thin coat with a beanie hat.

Once again, God had nailed it.  He had Paula on my heart this morning, strong enough to journal about it; then used my running around (in the flesh) to bring me back to the Cross . . . to show His mighty hand!  He provided for Paula, through a friend that gave in obedience.  Hallelujah! 

God showed me I was getting all worked up about something that doesn't matter.  ". . . . . . stop trying to be what everyone else wants you to be.  Those children are singing to Me and they could care less what they are wearing; so you shouldn't either." 

I am reminded of my reading this morning in Sarah Young's, "Jesus Calling" devotional.  It reads:

LINGER IN MY PRESENCE A WHILE.  Rein in your impulses to plunge into the day's activities.  Beginning your day along with Me is essential preparation for success.  A great athlete takes time to prepare himself mentally for the feat ahead of him before he moves a muscle.  Similarly, your time of being still in My Presence equips you for the day ahead of you.  Only I know what will happen to you this day.  I have arranged the events you will encounter as you go along your way.  If you are not adequately equipped for the journey, you will grow weary and lose heart.  Relax with Me while I ready you for action.

Ephesians 2:30, "For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."

Hebrews 12:3, "Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart."

Lord forgive me of my jealous heart and "do right" attitude.  Thank you for showing yourself to me today; thank you for my friend that was obedient to what YOU put on her heart in order to provide for Paula.  Thank you for allowing me to be on the sidelines and watch it all unfold.  Lord, I thank you for opening my eyes and bringing me back to the cross.  I love you, Lord.  I trust you.  Amen.

Paula told me she'd definitely be at NLO tomorrow because it is her birthday (Sunday, October 30th).  We will be celebrating at NLO with a birthday cake (no, she has no clue).  I wonder how long it has been since her birthday was celebrated?  She will be 48.  Please pray for Paula today.

Psalm 118:24, "This is the day the LORD has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it."

Immediate Needs For Nothing Lost Outreach

I have been asked by many people over the last few weeks what needs there are at Nothing Lost Outreach. This is a lot of information; BUT, many have asked for it.

 

View this video if you are wondering what Nothing Lost Outreach is all about.

Please print this off, put it on your refrigerator or in your Bible. If you aren’t able (or if God hasn’t put this ministry on your heart to provide), then please pray for NLO. Lives are being touched and changed for eternity. I have “awe-bumps” just thinking about it!

The following are several lists of needs; from weekly, special needs, food items, paper good items . . .etc.

The following are the items used each week in the toiletry kits:
1) Wet wipes or soap
2) Toothbrush
3) Toothpaste
4) Q-tips
5) Deodorant
6) Travel size OR large shampoos & body washes
7) Razors
8) Shaving cream
9) Quart size plastic bags

Special needs (given upon request by our NLO guests):
1) Insect repellant
2) Chap stick
3) Sunscreen
4) Feminine hygiene products (pads, liners, etc.)
5) Socks
6) Underwear
7) Mouthwash
8) Toilet paper
9) Athlete’s foot spray
10) Antibiotic ointment
11) Band-aids

Items needed for Winter:
1) Blankets
2) Coats
3) Tarps
4) Tents
5) Hats
6) Gloves

Other items needed (for the shower trailer):
1) Towels (used or new)
2) Wash cloths (used or new)
3) Laundry detergent

Meals:
Food Donations
Heavy Divided Paper Plates
12 oz paper cups
Utensil Packets
Tea
Sugar
Coffee
Little Debbie Snack Cakes
Individuals Fruit Cups (Cans)
Brown Paper Bags for their 2nd meal
Sandwich Bags

Clothing Donations:ALL SIZES . . . . CHILDREN’S AND UP!
Socks
NEW Underwear for children and up!


The temps are beginning to drop. Every Sunday, our guests are putting in orders for sweat shirts and sweat pants and jackets.

ALSO, we will be serving on Thanksgiving Day! The meal will be served at 11:00. We need servers! Please let me know if you are going to help as we need to be able to plan!

God might not be calling you to come pray with our guests, or even serve; but maybe He is calling you to donate or maybe, He is calling you to the biggest honor of all . . . . to intercede in prayer!

I challenge you to be obedient in the areas in which you have been called (regardless of the ministry or outreach).

 

When you provide, you become the hands and feet of Jesus! 

 

Stacey

Surreal

It's really been an odd week; a good week, a bad week (I am referring to my Friday food week),and an odd week. Kinda surreal; yet solemn. Like I'm disconnected and without emotion; but everything is fine . . . so why?

I don't know.  What I do know is I have eaten, gorged, eaten, gorged, celebrated (by eating) . . need I go on?  NOT been a good week on discipline and focus.

Maybe it is just exhaustion from sharing my testimony at Nothing Lost Outreach on Sunday and knowing full well the spiritual battle that took place that day. It was amazing but freaky . . . but so cool to see the Hand of God!  During the middle of my testimony, one of the men started shouting and causing a distraction.  There was noone around him, so I don't know what happened . . . yes, I do.  It was satan.  He was trying to get my gander!  BUT IT DIDN'T WORK!  As the man was being escorted out, I looked at a friend that was there, we both whispered, "it's ok" to each other simultaneously.  Moments later the room broke out in applause and we glorified God!  Whew!  Covered in awe-bumps right now!

Maybe it is the joy of seeing my daughter happy and in a good, solid relationship . . . and now engaged!   ENGAGED!  I've been praying for her spouse since she was twelve years old when I learned the importance of praying for our children.  My prayer was that God would bring the best the best that He had for her.  He did good.  Her FIANCE' is currently serving in the United States Marine Corps.  He is being stationed to California.  Please pray for him.  Pray for Kayla too.  Schooling is so important; but with her heart torn in the separation; she is just having a tough time.

Maybe it was the news that Christopher's psychiatrist has diagnosed him with encephalopathy with mood disorder and while he does have Asperger's, OCD/Sensory, Anxiety Disorders, based on the DSM manual, if a person/child has a diagnosis of encephalopathy, then it takes precedence over all other diagnosis'. How does this affect Christopher, I have no clue. The psychiatrist described it at a form of brain damage.  How did he get it?  Have no clue.  The thought is it's a birth defect, maybe heredity, who knows.  It would explain; however, why the medications we have tried and changed over and over don't work for long, or at all. But,what I do know, as I have said before, is I don't know God's plan, but I trust it. He created Christopher, and as much as I love him, He loves him even more.

Maybe it is the fact my youngest daughter is so nervous she chews on her hands and has pulled all the skin off her hands.

Maybe it's the fact that God showed Himself faithful yet again not only giving me confirmation in an area, BUT, He also provided! 

Let me explain in that He may be glorified! 

After receiving the diagnosis for Christopher, and being told there is no treatment; I began praying.  I began praying that if God wanted me to have Christopher seen an alternative medicine specialist, that He would confirm it..  I have been praying about a person I heard about named Dr. Jimmie Hill in Pace, FL.  He does Iridology.  I know what you are thinking; but here is the deal.  Nothing else is really working.  So why not?  What else do we have to lose?  (It has also worked out to have Christopher seen by a friend that do biofeedback studies of the brain; not based on the blood pressure and breathing, but reading the brain!  That is another story . . . so I'll move on.)  Well, what has kept me from pursuing it is money.  Alternative Medicine Specialist are not covered by insurance. Now follow me here . . .   Out of the blue, I received an email from a friend that new about Christopher's change in diagnosis and issues.  She told how her daughter had been ill and the doctor's couldn't figure out what was going on, so she went to see "Dr. Hill"in Pace to have her daughter's eyes read!  She was my confirmation to take Christopher!  BUT!  Here is the even COOLER thing!  That same morning, before even getting the email about Dr. Hill from a friend; I received a notification that we had made a mistake on our FAFSA Pell Grant paperwork for Chris and Kayla's schooling.  Even though their school tuition was covered, and because of our unfortunate poverty level, the extra money was put in to our spending account.  No kidding!  Go ahead, SHOUT AND REJOICE!  Guess what else!?!  (YES; there is MORE!)  It is enough to pay the mortgage of the house through Christmas (keeping us in our home through the holiday's ~ hello!  What a blessing THAT is!), pay the property taxes that will be due AND pay for a visit to see Dr. Hill!  Can you say "ONLY GOD CAN GET THE GLORY!"  I even hesitated in sharing this because it's one of those, "what if something breaks and we have to spend that money to fix something; but you know what I know; "My God will supply ALL our needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus!"  Philippians 4:19. 

I am just in awe.

It's surreal.

Its majestic.

All I can do is sigh and bask in His faithfulness.

Glorifying Him . . . . . because I have not walked in victory over my eating :(

Stacey

He Knows My Name . . .

First of all, I have taken off the music player on my blog.  I post too much music on here to have it playing; so it's off. 

Have had a strange week . .  struggled with anger, jealously, envy, anger (yes, that is on here twice for a reason), bad attitude . .  fear, anxiety . . . . . its all been here. 

Through it all, what keeps coming to my mind and the only thing giving comfort to my heart is knowing, "He Knows My Name." 

He knows every hair on my head (Luke 12:7). 

He knew me before the womb (Psalm 139).

He knows my thoughts before I even speak them (Psalm 139).

He knows . . .  it all!

I've been praying all week and preparing for sharing my testimony on Sunday at Nothing Lost Outreach.  While my heart seems to be at peace,  my mind is a fog.  Scriptures are racing and my thoughts are jumping from one to another . . .

My prayer, as well as many others for me this week, have been that I would speak only the words the Lord would have me to speak and that He alone would be glorified!

I have only lost one pound the last two weigh ins.  Really struggling with commitment.  While even one pound loss in nothing gained, it just seems like it should be more.  I have incorporated exercising more; not the six days a week like my doctor would like, but working up towards that.  I was able to put on my grandmother's wedding band that she gave to Chris to propose with.  I haven't been able to wear it in two years.  It is still tighter than I like my rings to be, but getting close, and that excites me!  Just a few more pounds and I'll be at the halfway mark!

On a side note, I sure am missing my Kayla. She is visiting her boyfriend's family in Georgia this weekend. Please pray for her. She will be home on Monday and then has class Monday night.  I know she is 19; but she is still my baby (I know, I'm a sap).  She is struggling with College Chemistry right now and College Algebra.  She has to have majors in both of these fields if she wants to major in Meteorology. 

Christopher has had a horrible cough and green for one week now.  When Christopher doesn't feel good, it makes everything else worse; his emotions, the melt downs, the anger . . . . just exhausting.  BUT, as a sweet friend reminded me, God chose us to raise this special, special young boy!  I can't wait to see what God does through his life!

Kaitlyn has been chewing the skin off the tips of her fingers and thumbs.  The speculation is the Ritalin she was started on for the ADHD has increased her anxiety and heightened her sensory issues; which would explain the fight we are having with tags, clothing, shoes and socks again.  She is constantly digging on her finger nails and toe nails as well.  She stays nervous, not knowing when Christopher will react next.  Breaks my heart.

Thanks for stopping by today.  I have to get off here so I can finish my scripture references. 

Continuing, to Walk in Victory,

Stacey

Psalm 139:13

Nothing Lost Outreach Video

Several weeks ago I blogged about a ministry that gives hope to the homeless.  The name of the ministry is called Nothing Lost Outreach.

While words on paper may be fine, seeing it on video will send you a shoutin'! 

Please take a few minutes and watch this clip.  You will need to scroll down and mute the music player!   Nothing Lost Outreach

The woman interviewed at the end of the piece came to know Jesus through NLO.  She told me, "I would never go into a church if not for NLO." 

I remember the first time I ever held the hand of a homeless man.  As tears ran down his face, we prayed for restoration of his family that he hadn't seen or spoken to in two years.

The most glorious sound I've ever heard is during worship service, when the voices of the men and women in the room rise above the instruments! 

The men and women at NLO are not perfect.  They are homeless or in extreme poverty.  They are being introduced to Jesus every Sunday and being accepted where they are.  Many come drunk or high; but the scriptures tell us that His word will not return void!  Amen!  Amen!

Please bring this ministry before the Father as He brings it to your mind.  IF you feel led to serve, please come!  IF you feel led to give, please give.  God will honor your obedience and bless the fruits of your labor and/or offering.

A Little Good News . . . . Nothing Lost Outreach

While driving home one day a few weeks ago, the Lord spoke to my heart after hearing over and over all the bad news from the day.  He impressed it on my heart to write about stories of Hope. 

{As I type this I am reminded of the old Anne Murray song, (take a few seconds and scroll down to turn off the music player)  A Little Good News.  I just listened to it again . . . . doesn't it get discouraging hearing negative after negative all day long?!}

I put a plea out on facebook that if anyone knew of any local stories of hope, to please let me know. 

One person spoke up, "Nothing Lost Outreach."

After doing some research to see exactly what this ministry does, I made a call.  I felt awkward explaining what the Lord had put on my heart to do, but it was received graciously!

I spent this past Sunday afternoon talking, asking questions, watching, listening and taking pictures of the homeless in Escambia County and the ones that have been called to serve them.

As I drove to Ensley Baptist Church, anxiety filled my every being.  I had butterflies.  I was nervous and unsure of how I would be received.  My prayer all the way there was, "Why am I so nervous?  Why am I so nervous?  Why am I so nervous?!"

THE VERY SECOND I OPENED THE DOORS, my anxiety was gone.  God put a friend from Pine Summit Baptist Church right there in my path!  I had no idea he would be there, in fact, it was his wife that told me of he ministry!  He quickly took me around, introducing me to the many (and I mean many) volunteers.  Can you imagine my surprise, when God put someone else there I know . . . and from Olive!  Tony Olesky with the Baptist Collegiate Ministry walks in!  I could not believe it! God gave me not just one, but two familiar faces to help me walk in obedience!  I was simply in awe.

Let me give you a little history about "Nothing Lost Outreach."  The name of this ministry comes from the feeding of five thousand Matthew 14:13-21 when Jesus tells his disciples to collect what is left over . . . leave nothing (no one) behind.  It started as a burden and vision to feed the homeless once a month (February 2011) and after the first feeding, went to every week.

Between 60 to 100 homeless people are fed every Sunday.  They are not only fed a hot meal, but SERVED a hot meal.  That's right, they don't go through the line like a buffet style, they are SERVED their meal by the volunteers.  These meals are served on heavy duty paper plates and eaten with plastic utensils.  Not only are they fead the delicious hot meal, but each person is given a sack lunch to take with them.  The sack lunch includes a sandwich, fruit cup, and some sort of Little Debbie snack cakes.



The Pensacola Bay Baptist Association allows them to use their portable shower trailer that is used in Disaster Relief Situations.  Approximately 25 to 40 people take showers weekly.  One long term goal is to have a building with ten (10) shower stalls built on the property of Ensley First Baptist Church because when a disaster arrives the trailer will not be available.

Point Baptist Church plays a major role, and if I have my facts correct, partners with Ensley First Baptist Church to make this happen.  In fact, there are several partners with this great ministry! You can view the list of partners on Nothing Lost Outreach's web site.  Point Baptist Church takes clothing orders for those in need of clothes, shoes, socks, underwear.  The orders are filled and returned two weeks later in a brown bag with a first name and last name initial.

One thing that sets this ministry apart is the transportation.  Vans are taken into the homeless camps and the homeless are brought in.  They don't sit back and wait for them to show up, they go get them.  Does every one come, no.  But their numbers are growing.

Every week 40 to 50 toiletry kits are given out.  These kits include toothbrushes, razors, deodorants, toothpaste, wipes, mini lotions, mini shampoo bottles, and sometimes wash clothes.

Since this ministry started in February of 2011, they have come to see ten (10) people come to know the Lord!

Between the hour of 4 and 5, Jesus is praised by song and by word!  This past week, Tony Olesky had approximately 30 young adults there to praise Jesus by scripture readings, skits, and song.  Tony then lead us in a devotional on prayer.  My heart was blessed as just an hour before the time of worship, one of the team leaders shared that they need "pray-ers."  People to come and pray one on one with people.  When Tony stood up and said, "We are going to talk about prayer today," I was covered in "awe-bumps!"  I knew right then and there that I was in the ministry I was supposed to be in.  I will be at Ensley First Baptist Church, again, this Sunday, praying.  I will pray for whoever wants prayer.  PLEASE, if God has burdened your heart for the homeless, we need your help to come take prayer request, and to pray.

I know I have given you much information, but all ministries have a need.  I could not believe the amount of donations given and yet the needs are so many.  The Lord has been faithful in providing for them!  Some of the needs I am about to list are sold through AVON.  IF you are willing to help provide, then I will sell the items I have access to at my cost.  I will not benefit from one single penny if you will help.  I will put an asterik (*) next to the items I have access to. 

Kitchen Needs:

Chinette Divided Plates

10oz cups

Salad Bowls

Plastic Utensil Kits

Napkins

Brown Paper Bags

Fruit Cups

Little Debbie Snacks

Non-Perishable Food Items

Monetary Gifts

Gift Cards to Wal-Mart/Sams

Toiletry Kits:

Wash clothes

Toothbrushes

Razors

Deodorants*

Toothpaste

Wipes

Mini Shampoo's*

Mini Lotions*

Chapstick*

Shower Soap*

Care Packages:

Bug Spray*

Ponchos

Tarps

Tents

Blankets

Coats

Sleeping Bags

Clothing Donations (as needed)

Bicycles

Men's Socks

Men's Underwear

T-Shirts (Men & Women)

Band-Aids

Peroxide

Foot Spray*

Jeans

Toys for Young Children

Ministry Needs:

Church van broke down; need mechanics or help with repair

A Medical Team is needed!  Someone to check feet, cuts, blood pressure, basic medical attention!  If you are a doctor, or nurse or know someone in the medical field that could come out please contact

Paul at 850-375-7396 or Pastor Jeff at 850-530-2429

Laundry Detergent (for towels and washclothes that are cleaned weekly)
Ziploc Bags for the Toiletry Kits

BIBLES!!!

As you can see the needs are many; but God has provided for this ministry in unbelievable ways.

If you are available to join me in praying on Sunday, please let me know.

I have added a few pictures throughout, but am adding more below.  These faces . . . . these people, are some one's son, or daughter, mommy or daddy, or even grandparent; but more important, they are valuable and important to my King. 

 

PLEASE, if you are available to come serve, to pray, donate items, or provide monetarily, please contact Pastor Jeff at 850-530-2429 or Paul at 850-375-7396 and spread a little good news, today!

Continuing,to Walk in Victory,

Stacey