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September 2009

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Thrive - an e-zine of spiritual encouragement with Poppy Smith

Life Changes, But God Remains the Same

Dear Friends,

September is a time of change for most of us. My two granddaughters, almost three, and barely four years-old, are excited to begin school, their little backpacks at the ready and shoes and clothes carefully chosen. Anticipating cool weather before too long, I spent an hour this morning putting summer clothes away (only until February when I’ll be gone for three weeks to Hong Kong, Singapore, and probably Bangladesh) and getting out some warmer tops.

Another change is buying an iPhone and trying to set it up—everyone says it’s so easy but for a non-techie person, simple isn’t always so simple! But the biggest change this September involves the loss of my web designer and helper, Joanne Sampl.

I had no idea Joanne battled cancer in the past, nor did I know that it recurred in July. I was shocked and saddened to receive an email last month telling me that she had passed away. Joanne was younger than me, a vibrant Christian, and someone I will miss greatly. I know God put her in my life for that specific time and I am very grateful for all she helped me with.

Because of losing Joanne, this month’s THRIVE is delayed. I know you understand. Other changes are also in the wings for my website. I am hoping that my blog, (which you can read and sign up for at www.poppysmith.blogspot.com ) will be posted on my website each time I write—which I try to do about twice a week. My purpose isn’t to tell you what I ate for dinner (which seems to be some of the content on Facebook and Twitter!) but to be a source of spiritual and emotional encouragement.

I hope what I write touches your life, challenges you to grow closer to Christ, and causes you to reflect on your relationship with God. Check out Espresso for the Soul and read what I said in a recent blog about the fact that even though our lives constantly change, God remains the same.

Love in Christ,

Poppy Smith

Espresso - Perk-Ups for Your Faith

What Is God Like?

by Poppy Smith

: : : : :

This morning I began reading Hebrews Ch.1 and was struck by verse 12: But you remain the same and your years will never end. As a spiritual director, you learn to ask questions—and I do that to myself. Here's the question I asked myself today:

What qualities, attributes, and characteristics of God have I seen in Scripture and in my life?

Here are some of my answers: He is...

  1. A hearing God—He has answered many prayers in ways that leave me amazed.
  2. A compassionate God—when my circumstances have left me in acute pain, He comforted me.
  3. A faithful God—when I grow dry and distant, the Holy Spirit draws me back with love.
  4. A forgiving God—when I sin with my tongue or hold ugly stuff in my heart, He cleanses.
  5. A restoring God—when I waver, He inspires me inwardly to trust, believe, persevere.
  6. A patient God—when I struggle with the same old stuff, He keeps working in me.

What is God to you? When has He been any of the above, or more, in your experience?

Think about how you have experienced God. Let it strengthen your trust in Him. Listen to the counsel of the Psalmist and remember what He has done for you: “I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago. I will meditate on all your works and consider all your mighty deeds” (Ps.77:11-12). Remember, meditate, consider.

No matter how much change is whirling around you, anchor yourself to the never-changing truth: God remains the same! He is always good, always on your side, always working out His purposes for your life.

 

News, trends & events

Listen to my interview by Linda Goldfarb on the topic of my re-launched book, I’m Too Young to be This Old.
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/linda-goldfarb 

Scroll down and look for my photo on the left side of the page, download the interview and enjoy!

 

Want A Spiritual Coach and Companion?

If you long for someone to help you grow closer to Jesus and be your spiritual companion and confidante, I’d be delighted to meet with you. Call me at 503-367-1374 or email: poppy@poppysmith.com

in this issue

Welcome from Poppy

Espresso

Want to Grow?
Check Out Poppy's Tips

News, Trends & Events

Upcoming Events


Want to Grow?

Follow the Psalmist and reflect on your spiritual journey:

1. How did God draw you to Himself?
2. What first spiritual steps did you take?
3. What produced the most inner change in you?
4. What is God doing in your life now?
5.

What are you most grateful to Him for?


 

Upcoming Events:

Fall Class: Starting Sunday, Sept. 20, I’ll be teaching a Fall class Spiritual Disciplines for the Not-So-Disciplined. I’m looking forward to blogging on each topic beginning with the first one, Slow Down! If you want to follow along, be sure to sign up at my blogsite. I’d also love to hear your comments and ideas.

TV Interview: Live in the Portland Metro or Salem area? On Thursday, September 19, at 6 p.m. I’ll be interviewed on W2W (Women to Women), a cable TV show through Comcast or Verizon. This program is sponsored by Oregon Right to Life Educational Foundation. Check out their previous videos at www.ortl.org I’ll be speaking on overcoming the power of regrets. Hope you tune in!

Speaking in Salem: November 20—Salem First Baptist

Hong Kong: Outreach lunch, Friday Feb.5, 2010

Salem Heights Women’s Retreat, March 5-7, 2010
 

 

Ask Questions - Get Answers from Poppy:

I'm asked questions about faith, life application of Biblical principles and spiritual growth everywhere I speak.

Now, for my online friends, I'd like to give you the same opportunity to ask questions.

I'll answer your questions and share comments in coming issues of "Thrive". Just contact me and let me know what you'd like to know more about...all at the click of your mouse!

 

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