tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-78716302103683022812024-03-13T11:31:04.066-05:00Barbie's Forecasts & Faithwww.barbiebassett.comBarbie Bassetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12150101761958412998noreply@blogger.comBlogger829125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7871630210368302281.post-13537596885104852942019-10-11T17:53:00.000-05:002019-10-11T18:27:45.556-05:00Holding On to the Plank<div class="MsoNormal">
The Fall season is our second severe weather season in Mississippi. (The first severe weather season is Spring) While we NEED the rain, the storms that bring the rain are rarely welcome.</div>
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My mind went back to a famous storm in the Bible, but I looked at it from a different perspective: a perspective I can relate to.</div>
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Acts 27 tells the story of Paul and 275 other prisoners on a stable ship in a storm on the Adriatic Sea. On the 14<sup>th</sup> night, the storm
was so fierce, utterly destructive, the once strong ship was coming apart at the seams.<br />
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Literally.<br />
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The Bible says the storm was so bad coupled with their fear, they “<i>prayed for daylight.</i>” (verse 29) The men tied ropes together trying to hold the ship together because it was falling to pieces. By morning they saw land ahead,
but ran aground into a sandbar which pulled apart whatever was left of the ship. It must've been dire, because the scriptures say they grabbed planks that were initially attached to the formerly strong ship to help them swim to shallow water.<o:p></o:p></div>
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What Paul doesn't realize is God was using the ship that was falling apart to get him to his destiny. But when you're in the middle of a storm, it's hard to understand. The one thing Paul was counting on, riding on, protected by...his security...fell apart. Demolished. </div>
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What do you do when what God gave you falls apart? Do you give up hope? Do you throw up your hands? Do you scrabble to try and save it? Do you walk away and mourn the loss?</div>
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In Isaiah 41:10, God made a promise: <i>"Fear not; 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."</i></div>
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God didn’t promise the ship that He
was going to be with the boat. He said He is going to be with you. </div>
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In the above scripture, God promised to get you there, but He didn’t say <b><u>how.</u></b> God
promised to get you through, but He didn’t say thru <b><u>whom.</u></b> If we're not
careful, we’ll put all of our energy into trying to salvage the battered boat not
understanding success is not defined by preserving the boat. The boat is
temporary. We can get so caught up into preserving something God
only gave us for a season. </div>
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Every blessing isn’t meant to last the journey.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uD5tNrUdWpo/XaEHPwGhgJI/AAAAAAAAA-E/0iSPBS3xiig2SIwFu3VaKhnR2XFUVtqCQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/73375510_782195052223892_5104900099692036096_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="432" data-original-width="647" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uD5tNrUdWpo/XaEHPwGhgJI/AAAAAAAAA-E/0iSPBS3xiig2SIwFu3VaKhnR2XFUVtqCQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/73375510_782195052223892_5104900099692036096_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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God
brings some people into your life to get you from point A to point B. And if you’re
not careful, you’ll get to point B and not get to point C because you’ll
stop and try to preserve what you had before, not understanding God has something else that will carry you the rest of the way. Just because the ship
comes apart doesn’t mean you have to.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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Can you imagine being on the boat bound and tied, stressed
and weary? Perhaps you're there now. The one thing you were counting on to get you to the other side, the
job you thought you'd retire with to get you to the other side, the friends you thought would be life long or the house you thought you’d
have for the rest of your life would to get you to the other side. </div>
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But the storm got
it. </div>
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If you’ve ever lost some relationships in the
storm or in the devastation of your ship, it can make you feel like a failure. Rest assured, the relationships were a temporary blessing. If it
was meant to stay, it couldn’t leave. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The destruction of the boat could be an announcement
that you have arrived at your next destination. <o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<i>Barbie will be the guest speaker at Friendship Baptist Church in Brookhaven, MS this Sunday. She'll be speaking at the ladies tea and bringing the message that evening for the church's revival service.</i></div>
Barbie Bassetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12150101761958412998noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7871630210368302281.post-15751152424590599102019-08-21T17:40:00.000-05:002019-08-21T17:40:01.296-05:00Torn Down & Rebuilt<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Fixer-upper shows fascinate me. A house is picked that badly needs a do-over, a vision is cast for the final product and viola! Whatever needs to be done, it's fixed, cleaned and ready to move back in within minutes, typically in a 1 hour tv show. Sounds like a great idea, right?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Nah.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">While preparing our cabin on the grounds of the Neshoba County Fair, William threw out an idea: He would replace our tiny shower with a much larger one *IF* we would all help to replace some foundation piers under the cabin.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">At his suggestion, I took one look at the kids and said, "Let's do it together!"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Our cabin was built in the mid 1950s by William's dad and grandfather. It's stood tall and secure for over half a century, entertained and slept many each summer. But we began to notice the cabin shaking a bit each Fair season as people would walk on the floor, take the stairs, or even step foot on the front porch. Something was wrong.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As we began to assess where to begin with removing the foundation piers, we used jacks to lift the cabin. A root ball along with the trunk of the tree had grown so much over the years, it had lifted one corner of the cabin and caused the center portion of the cabin to sink. The building wasn't level. Nothing was plumb or square. We surmised doing the work ourselves would take a couple of weeks. All of that changed when we got further into the renovation and discovered many of the foundation piers were rotten. Most of them were missing portions due to years of flooding rains underneath the cabin. As we pulled each pier out, we marveled at how strong it used to be, only to be splinters now. And the deeper we got into the project, the heavier the replacement piers became, the darker it was under the cabin, the more cuts, bruises and dings we acquired and the worse we smelled!</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4MJLIttHx7g/XVh4qPFVSOI/AAAAAAAAAAM/gpY2hWs14BwCA5t3WAmcVGRtQqJLCV5FQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_0994.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="594" data-original-width="640" height="297" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4MJLIttHx7g/XVh4qPFVSOI/AAAAAAAAAAM/gpY2hWs14BwCA5t3WAmcVGRtQqJLCV5FQCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_0994.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0kff0NAlP2U/XVxl82PI4wI/AAAAAAAAA9w/uLNoDquPPZw4stw3DhojPGVYQn-MjZ29ACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_1095.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0kff0NAlP2U/XVxl82PI4wI/AAAAAAAAA9w/uLNoDquPPZw4stw3DhojPGVYQn-MjZ29ACLcBGAs/s320/IMG_1095.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Countless fair cabin residents drove by our family every day gawking at the mess we had made. Piles of lumber, old wood strewn about, dirt for days, an exposed cabin, all sprawled out for people to see. Some would stop and wish us well in our endeavors. Others were surprised we were doing most of the work by ourselves. But a few would ask out of curiosity, "Do you think you'll have it finished and ready for the Fair?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I wondered a few times why we couldn't just saw the worn, torn and rotten spots off the old piers and use the good pieces of wood? I believe some would call that "wood restoration", yet it wasn't an option because those piers were already weakened. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">What God doesn't restore, He replaces.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">When we begin to see issues creep up on the surface of our lives, they catch our attention. It's not until we begin to peel back the layers and go deeper in our walk with the Lord that we begin to see just how broken we truly are. Reconstruction can't begin until demolition is complete. The tough part about deconstruction phase is that it's ugly, messy, and no one wants to be around it, much less offer to help.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Yet this is the phase of the project where God steps in! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Psalm 121:1-2 says, <i>"<span style="background-color: white;">I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the </span><span class="sc" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: small-caps; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal;">Lord</span></i><span style="background-color: white;"><i>, who made heaven and earth."</i> Facing those sins and dark spots in our life isn't pretty (that's the demolition part), but thanks be to God that He makes all things new by His grace, mercy and forgiveness of our past (that's the reconstruction part). </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">2 Corinthians 12:9-10 proves it: <i>"</i></span><i><span class="text 2Cor-12-9" id="en-ESV-29015" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px;">But he said to me, '<span class="woj" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;">My grace is sufficient for you, for <span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-ESV-29015B" data-link="(<a href="#cen-ESV-29015B" title="See cross-reference B">B</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 0.625em; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span>my power is made perfect in weakness.'</span> Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that <span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-ESV-29015C" data-link="(<a href="#cen-ESV-29015C" title="See cross-reference C">C</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 0.625em; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span>the power of Christ may rest upon me.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"> </span><span class="text 2Cor-12-10" id="en-ESV-29016" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px;">For the sake of Christ, then, <span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-ESV-29016E" data-link="(<a href="#cen-ESV-29016E" title="See cross-reference E">E</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 0.625em; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span>I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For <span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-ESV-29016F" data-link="(<a href="#cen-ESV-29016F" title="See cross-reference F">F</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 0.625em; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span>when I am weak, then I am strong." </span></i></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Even after we raised the foundation piers higher so they couldn't be affected anymore by the erosion of future rains, I was quickly reminded: </span></span>W</span>ith elevation comes separation from all things that cause contamination.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In the Bible, God used no one until He put them through the university of adversity. Only then did He allow them to become a leader in the Kingdom of God. So while the task of dealing with our short comings, sin, and shaky past isn't always joy-filled during the process, allow God to be the foreman of the reconstruction project to build something more glorifying of Him.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">So put your tool belt on, friend. Sometimes you must be torn down so that you can be built back up again. It's not a loss. It's just God helping you clean house.</span><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">(Barbie will be emceeing the Ovarian Cancer Lunch & Learn with St. Dominic and Newk's this Thursday at the Mississippi Ag Museum)</span></i>Barbie Bassetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12150101761958412998noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7871630210368302281.post-6956317257865966602019-07-05T20:50:00.002-05:002019-07-05T20:52:28.494-05:00The Proof is in the Fruit<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This time of year, the blueberry bushes in our backyard are bursting with fruit. They typically produce more than enough berries to last my sweet tooth for weeks, but something changed this year that's taken me a while to ponder.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Our blueberry bushes are strategically placed in our flower beds. They are not close to each other, but are mixed next to other varieties of shrubs. My favorite blueberry bush has always been the largest one. It towers four times higher than the others. This bush typically grows plenty of berries for several weeks. Its lush, green foliage makes it the prettiest of them all. Something changed this year: it only produced berries for one week. Although it's the most attractive, I was sorely disappointed in its lack of fruit.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The blueberry bush next to our bedroom porch produced large bowls of berries for several weeks, but this bush is one of the scrawniest bushes I've even seen! It's not loaded with leaves, but it's filled with sweetness.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In comparing the two bushes and trying to figure out what changed this season, I quickly noticed the differences. While one bush is the largest, it is surrounded by towering crepe myrtles and bay magnolia trees. It's protected from the thunderstorms, the winds, and the scorching hot sunshine. Indeed, it's beautiful on the outside, but lacks what it was designed to produce--fruit.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Meantime, the bush exposed to the rays of sunshine and severe winds, brought on by storms and hungry birds, has continued to make fruit for weeks.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I've read Mark 11:12-14 multiple times over the years, but seeing this scripture play out before my eyes in the backyard was something I couldn't ignore.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Jesus entered Jerusalem amid exultation from the masses gathered for Passover. In the morning, as he traveled from Bethany, he saw a fig tree “in leaf.” This particular tree draws Jesus’ attention because it has a full covering of leaves. Its foliage signals that it should have figs.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i><span class="verse" data-last-offset="17" data-ref="41011012" style="color: #514d47; letter-spacing: 0.25px; text-indent: 20px;"><span data-offset="6"><span style="font-family: "gotham a" , "gotham b" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">"</span><span style="font-family: "sentinel a" , "sentinel b" , "gentiumplus" , "ezra_silregular" , "georgia" , "times" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;">On</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "sentinel a" , "sentinel b" , "gentiumplus" , "ezra_silregular" , "georgia" , "times" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;"> </span></span><span data-offset="7" style="font-size: 17px;">the</span><span style="font-family: "sentinel a" , "sentinel b" , "gentiumplus" , "ezra_silregular" , "georgia" , "times" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;"> </span></span><span data-offset="8" style="font-size: 17px;">following</span><span style="font-family: "sentinel a" , "sentinel b" , "gentiumplus" , "ezra_silregular" , "georgia" , "times" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;"> </span></span><span data-offset="9" style="font-size: 17px;">day</span><span style="font-family: "sentinel a" , "sentinel b" , "gentiumplus" , "ezra_silregular" , "georgia" , "times" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;">, </span></span><span data-offset="10" style="font-size: 17px;">when</span><span style="font-family: "sentinel a" , "sentinel b" , "gentiumplus" , "ezra_silregular" , "georgia" , "times" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;"> </span></span><span data-offset="11" style="font-size: 17px;">they</span><span style="font-family: "sentinel a" , "sentinel b" , "gentiumplus" , "ezra_silregular" , "georgia" , "times" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;"> </span></span><span data-offset="12" style="font-size: 17px;">came</span><span style="font-family: "sentinel a" , "sentinel b" , "gentiumplus" , "ezra_silregular" , "georgia" , "times" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;"> </span></span><span data-offset="13" style="font-size: 17px;">from</span><span style="font-family: "sentinel a" , "sentinel b" , "gentiumplus" , "ezra_silregular" , "georgia" , "times" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;"> </span></span><span data-offset="14" style="font-size: 17px;">Bethany</span><span style="font-family: "sentinel a" , "sentinel b" , "gentiumplus" , "ezra_silregular" , "georgia" , "times" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;">, </span></span><span data-offset="15" style="font-size: 17px;">he</span><span style="font-family: "sentinel a" , "sentinel b" , "gentiumplus" , "ezra_silregular" , "georgia" , "times" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;"> </span></span><span data-offset="16" style="font-size: 17px;">was</span><span style="font-family: "sentinel a" , "sentinel b" , "gentiumplus" , "ezra_silregular" , "georgia" , "times" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;"> </span></span><span data-offset="17" style="font-size: 17px;">hungry</span><span style="font-family: "sentinel a" , "sentinel b" , "gentiumplus" , "ezra_silregular" , "georgia" , "times" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;">.</span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #514d47; letter-spacing: 0.25px; text-indent: 20px;"> </span><span class="verse" data-last-offset="39" data-ref="41011013" style="color: #514d47; letter-spacing: 0.25px; text-indent: 20px;"><span data-offset="1">And </span><span data-offset="2">seeing</span> <span data-offset="3">in</span> <span data-offset="4">the</span> <span data-offset="5">distance</span> <span data-offset="6">a</span> <span data-offset="7">fig</span> <span data-offset="8">tree</span> <span data-offset="9">in</span> <span data-offset="10">leaf</span>, <span data-offset="11">he</span> <span data-offset="12">went</span> <span data-offset="13">to</span> <span data-offset="14">see</span> <span data-offset="15">if</span> <span data-offset="16">he</span> <span data-offset="17">could</span> <span data-offset="18">find</span> <span data-offset="19">anything</span> <span data-offset="20">on</span> <span data-offset="21">it</span>. <span data-offset="22">When </span><span data-offset="23">he</span> <span data-offset="24">came</span> <span data-offset="25">to</span> <span data-offset="26">it</span>, <span data-offset="27">he</span> <span data-offset="28">found</span> <span data-offset="29">nothing</span> <span data-offset="30">but</span> <span data-offset="31">leaves</span>, <span data-offset="32">for</span> <span data-offset="33">it</span> <span data-offset="34">was</span> <span data-offset="35">not</span> <span data-offset="36">the</span> <span data-offset="37">season</span> <span data-offset="38">for</span> <span data-offset="39">figs</span>.</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #514d47; letter-spacing: 0.25px; text-indent: 20px;"> </span></i><span class="verse" data-last-offset="19" data-ref="41011014" style="color: #514d47; letter-spacing: 0.25px; text-indent: 20px;"><i><span data-offset="1">And</span> <span data-offset="2">he</span> <span data-offset="3">said </span><span data-offset="4">to</span> <span data-offset="5">it</span>, <span class="woc">“<span data-offset="6">May</span> <span data-offset="7">no</span> <span data-offset="8">one</span> <span data-offset="9">ever</span> <span data-offset="10">eat</span> <span data-offset="11">fruit</span> <span data-offset="12">from</span> <span data-offset="13">you</span> <span data-offset="14">again</span>.”</span></i> (Mark 11:12-14)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">With that expectation, Jesus inspected the tree. He was immediately disappointed. All leaves, no fruit. All expectation, no satisfaction.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In a shocking turn, Jesus cursed the tree and made it wither from the roots, never to yield fruit again. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #222325;">I've spoken to several hurting people over the last year, and their stories are the same: there's nothing worse than being hungry for prayers from fellow Christians and not receiving them, or wanting a Christian sister or brother to help "bear your burden", but your load is overbearing instead. It hurts deeply when the card-carrying church friends avoid you based on what they've heard, instead of coming to your side and saying, "I'm with you regardless of what happened."</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Our personal lives can look like they're “in leaf.” Our leaves may look like those of a supermom, a winner, a perfect family, an A-team Christian with an overstuffed schedule of ministry activities, but the roots may be withered. There may be no fruit of service and no intimacy with God. What’s worse—our leaves may even fool <i><u>us.</u></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I found it interesting the blueberry bush that's weathered the harshest conditions produced the most berries, while the covered, green bush made the least. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If your YES becomes a NO when tested, it was always a NO. Every YES will be tested for authenticity; it's the testing of your faith that will produce fruit that lasts. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Show up even when it hurts your reputation in the Christian world. Show up for someone just as much when they are at rock bottom as you would when they're on top of the world. It's the people who show up and walk through the fire with you who actually make a difference. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It's the showing up that matters. This is how you know if you're producing fruit or being fooled by your own leaves. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #222325; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Barbie will be the guest speaker this Sunday at Agricola Baptist Church in Lucedale, MS.</i></span></div>
Barbie Bassetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12150101761958412998noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7871630210368302281.post-9949838454839079072019-06-11T16:03:00.003-05:002019-06-11T16:08:42.181-05:00The Wheel of PainClicking through the channels on tv, I happened upon the Arnold Classic, a strongman competition. Just when I was about to change the channel, I heard the commentator mention the "wheel of pain" was coming up next. Curious, I had to see what it was and why in the world would someone want to compete on something called the "wheel of pain"?<br />
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The contraption looks like an old fashioned merry-go-round with one exception--it weighs 20,000 pounds. To win the event, the competitors had to make as many revolutions as possible.<br />
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Each strongman had their own unique strategy of pushing the 20,000 pounds around in a circle. Some used one shoulder to push it around. Some used both arms. But the one who took the prize maneuvered himself under one of the poles and used the back of his neck and his powerful legs to push the wheel around in a circle.<br />
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The winner of the "pain" contraption was the smallest of the competitors weighing in at 331 pounds. (Yes, you read that right). Most would assume the athlete with the most massive, bulging muscles would win. But the strongest people are not those who show strength in front of us, but those who win battles we know nothing about.<br />
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Isaiah 43:1-3 says, "<i>Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through the fire you shall not be burned and the flame shall not consume you. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior."</i><br />
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There comes a point at which strength alone won't win the battle. It's the will to fight the battle ahead that determines the outcome. God is reminding us that our faith in Him is enough to get us through the rough moments that feel as if they're going to crush us. He didn't promise our difficult days or years will be easy, but He said they won't consume us. In fact, God says we are His. He called us to go through this hardship.<br />
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No one enjoys the pain and suffering of pressing through. Pain in the process is not a sign God is absent. It is a sign that God is doing something so divine, so marvelous, it's crushing the flesh because humanity has never been able to stand up under the weight of divinity. Just hold on! You're about to see God's Hand in your situation. In fact, God is always preparing you for the thing He has prepared for you. God has given you the strength and the weaponry to do what you've been anointed and called to do.<br />
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God is a restorer. The enemy will regret messing with you when you come out of what you are going through all while glorifying God, even if it's a wheel of pain. Our assignment isn't to show others how good we are. Our assignment is to show others how good God is.<br />
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<i>(Barbie will be the guest speaker at the Grit & Grace Women's Conference on June 21 in Wesson, MS. For information, www.colin.edu/grit-grace )</i>Barbie Bassetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12150101761958412998noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7871630210368302281.post-21449235919813807662019-05-06T14:35:00.001-05:002019-05-06T14:35:21.667-05:00Growing in the Dirt<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I've been watching them for several weeks now. First the cold of winter, then the seemingly endless spring rains we've had. And don't forget those dramatic swings in temperatures from 35 degrees one day to 79 degrees the following day! My rose bushes have seen it all.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The bushes have been loaded with buds. Hundreds of them. The tight buds of each rose is so perfect, so intricate. And while my rose bushes are almost to the size of small trees, I checked out the bottom of each of the stems to see if there was any evidence damage from the weather extremes. Then it hit me: growth happens IN the dirt.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Have you found yourself in the "dirt" of life? Some challenges come and go. Others seem to linger for months or years on end. Hurt from friendships you once thought were solid, emotional turmoil, financial stress, unresolved sin and feeling defeated can all make us feel like we're swimming in the dirt. The hot sun lingers a little too long. The cold snap catch us off guard. The lack of rain leave us parched and wilted. And when it rains, it pours! You wonder if a better day is coming? But the dirt is where the REAL growth happens. It's not above ground. Sure, we all see the beautiful petals on display once the bud opens, but the growth happened in the deepest, darkest place for the flower. It's what you don't see...what's going on in the dirt.... that determines the strength and the color of the bloom.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This is how God often works His miracles in our lives. Some of the most spirit-filled, mature Christians I know are the ones who stayed in the dark places of hurt, mistreatment, addiction, lies, marital problems, betrayal, and everything in between. So much was going on underneath the surface and much of it was unknown to those around them. Yet through seeking God's face, His will and contending in prayer, they grew to glorify God through the mess. They may have some petals missing or a leaf or two out of place, but the growth they endured underground is what gave them a testimony no one can pluck.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 Chronicles 16:11 says, "<i>Seek the LORD and his strength; seek his presence continually." </i>Isaiah 30:15 goes a step farther: "<i>In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength."</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My friend, Perry Sorey, is a tomato growing expert. Anyone who has ever tasted Perry's tomatoes agrees. I asked him what is his secret? I was shocked when he told me. It's the dirt he plants his tomatoes in. He uses a mixture of dirt, some fertilizer and even adds manure. (Talk about dirty DIRT!)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Rest assured friend, if you find yourself in the dirt right now when it seems like God is silent, He is going to show out not only to take you into your destiny but to prove to those around you that the Lord is on your side. What He's about to do in your life publicly is not going to leave any doubt. God allows the dirt so you will be spiritually developed. If God doesn't take you OUT of the dirt, He's equipping you to grow while IN the dirt. And what was assigned to take you out and block your blooms will end up blessing you because you've weathered it all while getting a little dirty.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Spiritual growth occurs in the dirt; not in the comfort of a vase on display.</span><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">(Barbie will be the guest speaker at the Senior Adult Mothers Day Luncheon in Richland on May 9)</span></i><br />
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<br />Barbie Bassetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12150101761958412998noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7871630210368302281.post-47558828801894846312019-04-22T17:26:00.003-05:002019-04-23T15:05:02.882-05:00Your Comeback Story is Being Written<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Sitting on the plane with a window seat, I couldn't help but notice the big, burly man being squeezed in the middle seat next to me. The arm rest we were to share quickly became HIS as the muscles in his arms were larger than my thigh. He was enthralled as he watched the Masters golf tournament on the small tv screen on the seat in front of him. My seat mate had a hand towel draped over his lap which made me wonder if he anticipated sweating during our three-and-a half hour flight. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As Tiger Woods' golf ball went into the hole to seal his 5th Masters championship, the man with a United States Air Force ring on his pinky finger collapsed next to me crying. He laid his face in his towel and wept alligator tears. Granted, I know nothing about golf, but I had to wonder why he was so crazy emotional about Tiger Woods' win? It was obvious Tiger's road to victory struck an all too familiar chord with him. It was a come back he could relate to.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After we landed, I began to read the commentaries regarding Tiger's win and what made it so special. Most of the articles explained his bouts with drunk driving<span style="color: #4b4b4b;"> which began when he crashed his car on Thanksgiving in 2009, leading to revelations of serial infidelity, the breakup of his marriage and years of struggling to overcome sex addiction and debilitating back pain. Tiger had been going through these challenges for 10 years and said as recently as two years ago at the Masters dinner for champions, "I'm done." </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #4b4b4b;"><br /></span></span><span style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If we were standing at the foot of the cross when Jesus was crucified, we would've thought he was "done", too. How could he save himself? How could his broken, bloodied, beat up body ever be put together again even though he told his disciples he would die and rise again? (Mark 9:31) I can tell you how: But God. There are numerous 'But God' verses in the Bible, but one of my favorites is Genesis 50:20 when Joseph tells his brothers, <i>"You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done.." </i></span><br />
<span style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Reading the negative press about Woods got me thinking how I would feel if I were in his shoes? A crisis may have changed his life, but Tiger didn't let it <b><u>ruin</u></b> his life. If people can't kill your dreams, they will attempt to assassinate your character with the mistakes and choices you've made in the past. Don't even worry about it. God has you covered on all sides. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>"Do not gloat over me, my enemy! Though I have fallen, I will rise. Though I sit in darkness, the LORD will be my light." Micah 7:8</i></span></span></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If we focus on the hurt, we will continue to suffer. Yet if we focus on the lessons learned, we continue to grow. Don't waste your suffering. Allow God to make you rise above it as He intends it for good. Yes, even your failed, good intentions and decisions. Failure in your past doesn't negate the purpose in your future.</span></div>
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Barbie Bassetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12150101761958412998noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7871630210368302281.post-13353052421010335222019-04-06T12:48:00.000-05:002019-04-06T15:25:18.453-05:00The Power of Thank YouLast week I was asked to speak at the President's Inaugural Delegate Luncheon at Mississippi College as they installed their 20th President, Dr. Blake Thompson. Being an MC alum, of course I said YES to the invitation!<br />
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While lunch was being served, I told my friend Beth that I wanted to walk around the banquet room and speak to people I once knew in my years as a student there. One of the people I spotted at a table was Dr. Bettye Coward.<br />
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Most MC students had Dr. Coward for Child Psychology. It was one of the "core" classes that nearly everyone HAD to take no matter their major. I pulled a chair next to her and sat down. I introduced myself to Dr. Coward and told her I wasn't sure if she remembered me, but I took two classes from her in my years at MC: Child Psychology and Family Life. She put her fork down and smiled back at me.<br />
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"Of course I remember you, Barbie!" she said.<br />
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"Well, I just want to say thank you for being such a powerful voice in my life years ago," I told her. "You made those classes interesting and you were always so very, very kind. I've never forgotten that about you."<br />
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She smiled and we exchanged a few more pleasantries as to where she's living now and how wonderful retirement has been for her.<br />
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I left to go back to my seat to be ready for my part in the program. Afterwards, I was standing around talking with several college friends when Dr. Coward walked up to me. She grabbed my hand and looked me in the eye.<br />
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"I just wanted to say thank you for coming to speak to me," she said. "Those my age and at this stage in their life could use some acknowledgement in knowing we made a difference in someone else's life."<br />
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Proverbs 25:11 says, "<i>A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver.</i>" Another translation says, <i>"Like golden apples in silver settings, so is a word spoken at the right time."</i><br />
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As I sat in my car driving away from campus, it made me think about her words. How many times have I been guilty of assuming someone knows how much they mean to me or the influence they've had on my life? The answer is too many times I'm afraid. What encouragement we could be to someone today if we just took one minute out of our schedule to send them a note, a call, or a spoken word of thanks for how they treated us in the past or a sweet memory we have of them. Telling those who have influenced you NOW brings a sense of fulfillment to their heart and may spur them on to continue blessing others in the same way they blessed you. The right words may refresh, but no words are as effective as thank you.<br />
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I may never see Dr. Coward again this side of heaven, but I could tell she still wanted to feel like she "mattered" to someone else, even in retirement.<br />
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Excuse me now as I have my marching orders for today!Barbie Bassetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12150101761958412998noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7871630210368302281.post-64977704847689352872019-03-28T17:27:00.000-05:002019-03-28T18:15:05.507-05:00Grace WinsOne of Gracie's teachers in youth group at church caught me in the hallway after the service.<br />
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"I just HAVE to share this with you," she said. "The girls were talking about different challenges they're going through at school and one girl mentioned someone who's being very ugly to her. She went on to share how hurtful it is and she's having a hard time being nice to her," she explained. With her eyes watering, she explained. "Gracie said, 'Look at her as a child of God, too, just like you. That changes everything,'" </div>
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Momma brag alert: My heart smiled.</div>
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We almost always see what's wrong with other people and not what's wrong with us. And while it may be human nature to do so, the Bible said it's still sin (Matthew 6:14-15).</div>
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Colossians 4:6 says, "Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person." Luke 6:36 says, "Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful."</div>
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God's grace is forgiving. Grace is also for giving. And we always have a choice to give it to others or hold back in judgment of them instead.</div>
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Be the person who makes others feel special. Be known for your kindness and grace. Do you have enough Jesus in your heart to show grace and share grace with other?</div>
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<i>(Barbie will be the guest speaker Friday, March 29, at Mississippi College's Delegate Luncheon for the instillation of MC's 20th President, Dr. Blake Thompson)</i></div>
Barbie Bassetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12150101761958412998noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7871630210368302281.post-3177789960132307912019-03-18T13:15:00.001-05:002019-03-18T13:15:39.875-05:00When You've Had Your Bell Rung<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I was sitting on my bed reading when I heard a loud THUD. I looked thru the glass doors on the bedroom porch to see if the dog was playing in my rose bushes, but he wasn't there. Curiosity got the best of me. I got up to look out the windows when I saw it--a beautiful warbler (yellow bird) lying on the porch, beak up. My heart melted. The bird must've flown into our second story window only to fall flat on the concrete. I noticed it's eyes were closed half way and it's wings were slightly fluttering; almost pulsing. There was no way I was going to let it lie on the concrete by itself so I put my shoes on and went outside.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It looked so helpless lying there. I cupped it in my hands and began gently petting it's head and speaking softly to it, but the blessed bird was limp as could be. It's eyes still closed slightly. I couldn't feel it breathing at all. When all of a sudden, I stopped talking to it and noticed sounds coming from all around me. My ears were filled with chirping sounds of other birds as if they were in stereo, surround sound. I looked in the bay magnolia tree and in the crepe myrtle to see a few birds sitting on the branches chattering about. I looked down at the lifeless bird and said, "Not today, birdie."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I kept petting the top of it's head, then I'd pet it on either side of it's beak. A couple of small, down feathers fell out. (Must've been some kind of hard knock against the window!)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">"Do you hear that?" I spoke. "That's your friends talking. They're waiting on you to come back." I began to feel the claws on it's feet move. I moved my hands from a lying position to holding the bird upright. No blood, nothing looked broken and all of it's flight feathers were still in tact. <i>There's still hope. </i>I slowly moved my right hand away that was holding it down to keep it from falling, and it lifted it's head. I don't know if the THUD "rang it's bell" or knocked it out, but the bird started to come to itself. While cupping it with my left hand and stroking it's head with my right hand, the bird chirping all around began to intensify as a few birds around us flew from one tree to another bush. "They're waiting on you," I said petting it. "You've got to get up and fly again."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">By this time, William and the kids noticed me through the windows holding the bird and came out to watch. Everyone got a chance to pet it's soft, feathered head as the bird became more aware of it's surroundings. (It was almost as if it was enjoying the attention by this point.) The claws moved on the palm of my hand and I could feel it's confidence coming back. After a few more strokes and pep talk, it was wide awake and flew to the nearby rose bush. Mission accomplished!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">I began to think: How in the world could the bird NOT see the window? Not paying attention, not looking forward, careless maybe? When the blows of life hit, we begin to rationalize what just happened or even point fingers with "what were you thinking?!"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; white-space: pre-wrap;">Matthew 6:26-27 says, <i>"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? </i></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i>Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?"</i></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></i></span><span style="color: #111111; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">In those moments, I noted several observations.</span></span></span><br />
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<li><span style="color: #111111; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The other birds knew this bird had fallen and seemed to stay close by.</span></span></li>
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<span style="color: #111111; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Isn't that how our Heavenly Father approaches us? He provides everything we need according to Matthew 6:26-27, stays close by even if we don't feel Him, and speaks affirming words to us softly.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #111111; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Rest in knowing God will provide when you've had your "bell rung". And may we all be as those birds sticking close by in the trees above our fallen birds to encourage them so they can get up to fly another day. </span></span><span style="color: #111111; font-family: verdana, sans-serif; white-space: pre-wrap;">Most people don't need reminded of how much they screwed up. They need to be reminded of how much we still care.</span></div>
Barbie Bassetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12150101761958412998noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7871630210368302281.post-21336913484934626362019-03-08T13:48:00.001-06:002019-03-11T14:36:55.422-05:00Thankful Thru The ChaosA massive EF-4 tornado left death and destruction across portions of Alabama and Georgia last week. Hardest hit was Lee County, Alabama with 23 fatalities. One family lost 7 family members.<br />
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As a meteorologist studying weather patterns and forecast models, seeing the devastation from these storms cut like a knife every time. My family went through our own version of this in 2001 when our neighborhood was struck by an EF-4 tornado. It completely changed my perspective on covering severe weather, but it also made me more sensitive to the experiences faced in the aftermath.</div>
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In looking over the photos and path of the Lee County tornado, I came across video of Ernestine Reese. Just 20 minutes after her home was obliterated from the tornado, someone helped her FaceTime with relatives to let them know she was alive after being pulled from the debris. She suffered a broken hip, has since had surgery and recovering. But before leaving for the hospital, she told her relatives on the FaceTime, "I thank the Lord." She goes on to tell them, "Tell God 'thank ya'. Tell God 'thank ya'!" Ernestine said it with such enthusiasm, excitement, and gave a hardy belly laugh!</div>
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<i>Ernestine Reese talks to her relatives via FaceTime while someone holds the iPhone for her.</i></div>
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When life is good, it's a breeze to tell God 'thank ya'. And while we may claim to praise Him even if we were to lose it all, we really don't know how much praising we'd do until we've lost everything we've gained. Lose your job and the security it gave, lose your home you've spent years saving for and making a home for your family, lose your reputation, or lose a loved one to a health crisis--Would you still praise God? Oh friend, it's so easy to say what you would do <b>"if"</b> that day came, but the only way to know what we would do is to have it happen. </div>
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I've been there. I know.</div>
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Psalm 9:10 says, <i>"Those who know your name will trust in you, for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you." </i>Those who trust in God's provision and in His sovereignty can praise Him through the chaos that comes. Even though Ernestine lost her home, her hard earned possessions and was injured, her faith was strong enough that she could declare a "thank ya" to God.</div>
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Sometimes God's blessings are not in what He gives; but in what He takes away. Holding on to something that is good for you now, may be the very reason why you don't have something better.</div>
Barbie Bassetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12150101761958412998noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7871630210368302281.post-18628730395580318662019-03-01T14:38:00.003-06:002019-03-03T21:01:21.261-06:00Feeling Alone? Love Them Anyway!<div style="color: #1d2129; font-size: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I was chatting with a friend recently and she shared how alone she felt. People she knew for years and had solid relationships with seemed to turn on her. Here today, gone tomorrow. "I just don't understand what I've done? I thought our friendship was stronger than that," she said. "They believed what they heard from someone else and now, BOOM. They've disappeared." I asked if she had reached out to them to try and have a conversation with her 'friends' and perhaps talk through whatever issue that caused a separation. "I've tried and all I get is one word answers," she lamented. "It's like they want nothing to do with me because of what they were told."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My heart went out to her. I think we've ALL been there before.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Don't be surprised by individuals who are close to you for a season, and then disappear for a lifetime. It’s the ebb and flow of life. Few remain for a lifetime. What may be surprising is when individuals chose to walk away because they heard “about you” from others. They walked away yet they never took the time to listen to you personally. How many times have we lost relationships with individuals because we heard the “version” rathe<span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;">r than listened to them?</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We have these discussions quite frequently with our kids to prepare them for adulthood. People will walk away without ever calling or visiting with you to listen to what is within your heart and why you made certain decisions. Yet no matter the amount of times this happens, don't become bitter toward them just because they chose to hear <b>about</b> you rather than <b>listening</b> to you or chose to believe the worst regarding your decisions. Learn to bless them, learn to respect them and learn to pray for the Lord to use them for His Glory. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ephesians 4:29-32 says, <i>"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Paul says here that those HEARING what we say about someone else should <u>benefit</u> from our conversation in a godly way.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Whoa...That hit me like a ton of bricks! While you may think a conversation about someone is occurring between you and another one privately, would a passerby eavesdropping, reading the text, listening on the phone conversation, be blessed by what you and another are saying about the other person or would they be shocked, appalled or disappointed? Would it taint their opinion of the other person? Paul said to <i>"Get rid of"</i> it (verse 31). He said those people...you know, the ones you so badly want to gossip about, share what you've heard, or believe to be true...treat them with kindness and compassion and forgive them for whatever they've done to you or whatever you <b><u>think</u></b> they've done to you. For one day when you find yourself in the same position (and if you live long enough, it WILL happen), you will want kindness, compassion and forgiveness shown to you.</span></span></span></div>
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Barbie Bassetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12150101761958412998noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7871630210368302281.post-6097844259855397602019-02-27T13:01:00.000-06:002019-02-27T13:05:07.980-06:00Pressure Produces Strength in Your Life!<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Over the weekend I traveled with Gracie and Lilly Faith to Atlanta for CheerSport Nationals. This is a massive cheerleading competition with screaming girls and guys doing flips you didn't know the human body could do! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Both girls are bases, or back spots, on their squads. This means it's their responsibility to make sure the flyer (the cheerleader in the air) doesn't fall and to make sure the flyer gets in the air. No. Matter. What. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Before each of them were released to their coaches to warm up for their performance, I looked at them in their eyes and reminded them. "YOU are the strong one. Whatever happens, don't let your flyer fall. Get her up, hold on to her, and get her feet back on the ground. If she falls, YOU fall under her." While I have these short pep talks with them before every competition, it's important to reminder them. The pressure to perform is one thing. The pressure to make sure your flyer gets up and stays up is another.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">By the second day of competition, everyone was tired but excited. Gracie's squad was performing well in the beginning of their routine, but something was slightly off with the first stunt. Her flyer went up and began to wobble slightly. I was videoing all of this and in my mind shouting at the same time, <i>"Get it together! Hold! Hold! And, YES!"</i> Her stunt group pulled it together to make sure the flyer stayed up and didn't fall. They finished their performance to our cheers and applause and landed in 5th place at the competition. Her team and coaches were thrilled!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">While making the long drive back home, we had plenty of chat time in the car. I asked Gracie what she was thinking when she saw her flyer wasn't stable and was at risk of falling. "I just kept telling myself, <i>not on my watch! Nope. Nope. Nope. She will NOT fall,</i>" Gracie said. "And then I pushed with everything I had," </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The pressure is on us every single day. And the more you live the Christ-centered life, the pressure will only intensify. It's hard pushing through the tough times when everything else around you says to give in. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Joshua 1:9 says, <i style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-size: 17.600000381469727px;">“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your Go</i><i style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 17.600000381469727px;">d will be with you wherever you go.” </i><span style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="color: rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.701961);"><span style="font-size: 17.600000381469727px;">Notice where God will be with you...<b>wherever.</b> <b>Wherever</b> could be in your workplace with an unpleasant co-worker, in the middle of a difficult discussion, when you're wondering how you're going to pay the bills, or when you're waiting on the results from the doctor.</span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 17.600000381469727px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Just like Gracie discovered how the pressure to make sure her flyer didn't fall made her more determined than ever, the pressures you and I go through can do the same once we believe and embrace that God will be with us wherever we go. </span></span><br />
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<span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 17.600000381469727px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The enemy measures your life by how many times you've fallen. The enemy measures your life by how much gossip is said about you. The enemy will say, "That's it. You're done this time." But God looks for how many times you get back up. God has the last word. </span></span><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 17.600000381469727px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If the enemy knew what God was producing in you while you're under pressure, the enemy would leave you alone!</span></span><br />
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<span style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 17.600000381469727px;"> </span><i>Gracie's squad after they performed</i></span></span>Barbie Bassetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12150101761958412998noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7871630210368302281.post-44415278527230936662019-02-18T14:07:00.001-06:002019-02-18T15:31:50.214-06:00Pursuing the Heart of God<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Valentines Day was last week. While I can always depend on my husband giving me roses and an overly, sweet card, our kids typically come up with a handmade card or a store version. Their words are kind, from the heart, and make me smile. They usually involve phrases like, "You're the best mom ever" or "You are fun to be with" and even the obligatory "I love you". Those make any mother's heart smile, but I believe my favorite happened this year.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Right there at the end, it struck me: "..you always love your enemies". My children are watching how I react to unkind people. Matthew 4:44 says, <i>"I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you."</i></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I'd like to think I don't have any enemies, but I know I'm not everyone's "cup of tea" for whatever reason. That doesn't bother me as I don't care for tea either, but I'm friends with many who enjoy tea!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Praying blessings and mercy on those who may see themselves as your adversary is a choice. (I didn't say it was fun and it doesn't make sense in the natural) While you've probably been taught the importance of praying and loving those who make it difficult to love, there is supernatural, God-sized power when we do. </span>When our faith in doing what's right combines with the Word of God, that's where the power comes from.<span style="background-color: white;"> If you do something just a do it, it becomes a religious ritual that has no power. Always move with the Holy Spirit and the heart of God.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">So when you find yourself tempted to speak negatively about the person who gets on your ever-lasting nerve or to make a passive aggressive comment...or as our society likes to do now, post on social media hoping the person who offends you the most will read it...pursue God's heart. When you do, it will make loving that person so freeing!</span></span>Barbie Bassetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12150101761958412998noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7871630210368302281.post-86892711132614403772019-02-15T15:27:00.001-06:002019-02-15T15:27:10.308-06:00Thank You, Mississippi!Just when you think your problems are too overwhelming, you read about someone else's battle. I received this email yesterday while on my way to Mississippi Blood Services to get ready for my LIVE shot for WLBT.<br />
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<i>I have multiple myeloma blood cancer. I had a stem cell transplant on February 8, 2018. I'm now receiving IGIV infusions due to a very low immune system. This is created from blood plasma from thousands of donors. This is a 5 hour infusion once a month during the winter months. I just want to thank you for what you do for Mississippi Blood Services and other organizations. I stand to live a longer, healthier quality life from the knowledge of doctors at UMMC and Christian people who give and support me. -Sandra</i><br />
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I can tell you other stories of donors who came in and shared how they had received blood products to help them recover from an illness, a surgery or knew of someone who had received blood. One young lady told me she came to donate in memory of her grandfather who passed away earlier this month from leukemia. He had received blood transfusions throughout his treatments. With tears in her eyes she said, "I'll donate from here on out" because others gave him an extra day to live so she could have her grandfather.<br />
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Yesterday was the most blood donated in one day in 10 years for Mississippi Blood Services on Valentines! Sure, Marshall Ramsey and I were thrilled to lend a hand in getting people through the doors, but it's a fact Mississippians have a heart for others. Because 302 people showed up on Valentines, more people will have the opportunity to live. All of the credit goes to you, Mississippi!<br />
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<i>Barbie with Marshall Ramsey</i></div>
<br />Barbie Bassetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12150101761958412998noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7871630210368302281.post-83605429813706266192015-03-12T12:34:00.000-05:002015-03-12T12:34:14.435-05:00The Story Behind The PictureThis photo has been shared thousands of times last week when it was posted on social media, but there's quite a story behind the picture many don't know.<br />
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Almost 2 years ago, I received an email from Shirley Walker. Shirley told me how her best friend, Kim Stribling, was a big fan, had been diagnosed with cancer and was going to have to fight for her life. It was stage 4. Shirley thought it would be encouraging for her to read one of my books and she wanted to know where to purchase one. <br />
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<em>Purchase one?</em> I thought. <em>Why not just give her one, in person?</em> I arranged with Shirley a time when I could surprise Kim in the hospital. Gently knocking on the door, I walked in and said "I heard someone needed some sunshine today!" The expression on Kim's face was priceless and worth the secret Shirley had kept to arrange this meeting. I gave Kim a signed copy of my devotional and we became fast friends and even discovered that our children shared the same names.<br />
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Over the year, I'd visit with Kim and her husband in the hospital. I anoint her with oil many times and prayed for healing, grace and mercy. We prayed for wisdom for the doctors treating her and ministering angels for her family which included her 4 children. We laughed, we cried, and we talked a LOT about faith and God's goodness. When you find yourself wanting so bad to live on Earth, but yet knowing you may not and the questions surrounding those you'll leave behind, reality sets in.<br />
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With every good report, Kim would feel a glimmer of hope. And with each negative report, she prepared a bit more for eternity, looking forward to what was to come.<br />
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When Kim received her eternal healing, it was clear I needed to grow and donate my hair once more. I had spear headed the Great Lengths program at WLBT for almost 10 years, encouraging viewers to grow and donate their hair with me every 2 years. Our hair donations are sent to Pantene which makes the human hair wigs and sends them back here to Mississippi. Those wigs are placed in a wig room at St. Dominic hospital and are given to women for free. We also work with the American Cancer Society in Jackson to provide the same for those women not being treated at St. Dominic. No matter where the patient is being treated in Mississippi, the human hair wig is free for her. <br />
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Just last week, the Great Lengths event took place in Clinton at our host location, the Mississippi Institute of Aesthetics, Nails and Cosmetology. Our 2 daughters, Gracie and Lilly Faith, grew their hair with me and donated as well. But it was only fitting that I ask Kim's 2 younger daughters to cut my hair in memory of their mother.<br />
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The time I spent with their mother was sweet, but the minutes spent with them was even sweeter. They may not fully understand right now what it all means, but as they get older, they'll understand Who their mother served.<br />
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Romans 12:12 says, "Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer." We rejoice in Kim's ultimate healing, but we stay patient with this current life God has given us. We stay in constant prayer for discernment in what the Holy Spirit wants us to do next. This, after all, is what thanks living is all about.<br />
Barbie Bassetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12150101761958412998noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7871630210368302281.post-71610714937482131362013-12-25T11:16:00.001-06:002013-12-25T11:16:44.410-06:00A Christmas PerspectiveI've always been a bit hesitant with letting my children "help" with decorating the Christmas tree. While my method of decorating is like that of a Type A personality in that I want structure and perfection, my children's' method of decorating the tree is most like a throw-it-up-there-and-let's-see-where-it-lands method.<br />
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It wasn't until one morning when I noticed one of the glass balls had fallen on the floor and shattered into pieces. I grabbed a broom and dust pan, got on the floor, and commenced to cleaning up the shards, hoping to get every sliver. While on the floor, I found myself eye level with the bottom of the tree. What did I find but a plethora of Christmas balls hanging on the lower limbs of the tree, all in a row. From my height location, I had not seen where our youngest Lilly Faith had put many of her decorations.<br />
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Everyone's perspective is different. Our perspective on our life is often different than God's. Romans 11:33 says,<em> "O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out!" </em>The fundamental difference between someone who has faith in God and the unbeliever is revealed by the way they judge things. The unbeliever judges things by worldly standards, by his senses, and by time. The person learning to think like God brings God into everything, viewing things from His perspective, by His values. He seriously meditates on God's sovereignty over all things. Faith holds a person steady.<br />
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Because we often do not think like God, and because we do not have His perfect perspective, we often do not exactly know what God is doing. Only in hindsight do we understand what God is allowing in our life.<br />
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When I stood up from cleaning the floor, I took a step back to look at the tree once more. My perspective had changed. No longer was I on the floor staring at the imperfections of Lilly Faith's placement of ornaments, but I was seeing the beauty of the tree in all of its glittering glory. That's exactly the way God sees you. While you have some scattered parts of your life that can be chaotic, He sees your full potential and your purpose. <br />
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Instead of focusing on the areas of your life that aren't perfect, remember how God sees you--perfectly put together for a mission that He has created you for and only He can direct.<br />
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Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!Barbie Bassetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12150101761958412998noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7871630210368302281.post-18703874773792077432013-10-29T17:48:00.002-05:002013-10-29T17:48:28.751-05:00Retreat In Order To AdvanceIt was an opportunity to speak to a group of women who GET me.<br />
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When my publicist told me that a representative from the Mississippi Baptist Convention contacted her about my being the guest speaker at the Ministers Wives Conference at the Convention, I was elated. While I am not the daughter or the wife of a pastor, I've watched closely those who are over the years and witnessed the hurt many church going folk have lobbed at the preacher's wife. When parishioners are mad, they have a tendency to complain to the wife of the pastor. Not only does she hurt for her husband, but in some cases, she protects his feelings and keeps the critical comments to herself.<br />
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Being in the media is similar. The forecast isn't the target. The target is everything superficial. And everyone has an opinion, including the well intentioned viewers, I'm sure. In sharing some of the emails and anonymous letters I've received recently with the group, they GET why I have taken a step back from the camera lights for a while so that I can focus on more important aspects of my life. With each one I read, you could see it on their faces: they had heard similar criticisms from their church members.<br />
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While sharing with the wives, I encouraged them not to focus on the "constructive criticism" they don't solicit, but to shut the door on the negativity shown to them. For some this means shutting the door on the negative people who feel the need to share their opinion. Retreating and taking a step back is the first movement forward in walking in your anointing. You must retreat in order to advance.<br />
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Isaiah 30:15 says, "<em>In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength</em>." Silence away from the nay-sayers is the place where God does the greatest works in your life and in your walk of faith. But faith isn't faith until you DO something. I've discovered finding those quiet seasons when you can concentrate on what God has called you to do opens up a wellspring of God-ordained appointments.<br />
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When I returned, I received numerous messages including this email from one of the ladies in the audience:<br />
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<em>"Thank you for your words of encouragement today at the Minister's Wives gathering. Having been in this role now for 35 years, I resonated with many of your emails from "sisters in Christ." I appreciated your willingness to be personal. My husband and I are currently in a time of "retreat" and had to "shut the door" in order to regain our perspective. Today was a light rain on my parched heart, and I thank God for using you in my life today."</em><br />
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Perhaps God is calling you to take a step back and to walk by faith in a certain area so that He can pull up alongside of you and show you what He has next for you. Your trust in God is your strength.<br />
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<em>(Barbie will be speaking in Columbus, Ohio next week and will be the guest speaker at the Mississippi Conference of Medial Assistants the following week.)</em>Barbie Bassetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12150101761958412998noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7871630210368302281.post-1388306486782652992013-08-30T12:48:00.002-05:002013-08-30T12:48:26.300-05:00Redefine Your Future ArticleA special thank you to those who have commented, sent me texts and emails about the "Redefine Your Future" blog story released this week. I truly appreciate your posts over the last few days on my Facebook pages.<br />
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In case you didn't see it, here it is:<br />
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<a href="http://redefine.rodanandfields.com/blog/barbie-bassett-no-rain-in-the-forecast/">http://redefine.rodanandfields.com/blog/barbie-bassett-no-rain-in-the-forecast/</a><br />
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Happy Labor Day weekend!Barbie Bassetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12150101761958412998noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7871630210368302281.post-76139564314560356772013-07-08T10:45:00.000-05:002019-02-15T15:35:49.636-06:00Doing Things That MatterA question I'm bombarded with lately is: "Where are you? Are you still on tv?"<br />
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For some time I've felt called away, if you will, to concentrate on things much bigger than myself. I've spent valuable time with my children and have been more inclined to hone my heart at being a better wife and help mate to my husband. While away from my television career that I've enjoyed for some 18 years, I've also spent more time fasting and writing on my next book. There's been lots of fun along the way over the last 2 months, but some of the most rewarding moments have included visiting with strangers-turned-friends battling cancer, teaching my children the importance of giving, and living my faith in a more intense fashion.<br />
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My children enjoy making things for the homeless at the local Stewpot Community Services. They mold and make things with their hands under the direction of their babysitter. Each holiday, they like to make something unique for the homeless and for the 4th of July, they gave over 150 sunglasses with red, white and blue lanyards attached to each pair. My son Will said, "They thanked ME!" and that was all he needed to feel like he had given his best.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kids with their sunglasses individually wrapped to give to the homeless.</td></tr>
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While in Bora Bora, I had the opportunity to talk and visit with one of the locals. While their culture is quite interesting, they all have the same hopes and dreams for the future. In fact, they are a very loving people.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Talking with one of the Bora Bora locals as he explains what his tattoos mean.</td></tr>
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My most recent stop included visiting with Kim Stribling. Kim is fighting breast cancer and her friend, Shirley Walker, emailed me a few months ago to ask if I would come for a surprise visit because Kim was a big fan of mine. It was one of the most inspiring visits I had made recently and I've been following her progress ever since. This last visit, I anointed Kim and her hospital room and even gave her a black pearl from my trip to Bora Bora. Kim lights up the room and lights up my heart. The "spiritual advancement" she's gone through recently has made her a beacon of light for so many in Vicksburg.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BFcYErxjzAw/UddXc7sJ4cI/AAAAAAAAAuM/Ii3vo-rczNw/s1600/KimS.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BFcYErxjzAw/UddXc7sJ4cI/AAAAAAAAAuM/Ii3vo-rczNw/s200/KimS.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Visiting with Kim in her hospital room waiting on round #6 of chemo.</td></tr>
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All of these events remind me why I've taken a break from my television career. For so long, I've reached my goals only to have them superseded by the next goal conjured in my mind. But now I've stopped setting "getting goals" and started setting "giving goals". My motivation for making more is giving more...giving more time, more resources, more encouragement. After all, you make a living by what you get, but you make a life by what you give.<br />
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I'm reminded of my visit with Robert as I talk about in this video.<br />
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<a href="http://vimeo.com/17366492">http://vimeo.com/17366492</a><br />
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So, yes, I'm still here. I'm still at WLBT. But right now, I'm doing things that matter.Barbie Bassetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12150101761958412998noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7871630210368302281.post-2589630621678426582013-06-11T13:11:00.000-05:002013-06-11T13:11:10.241-05:00The Chapel Window<span class="userContent">So many of you have asked if I'd share our last day in Bora Bora. </span><br />
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<span class="userContent">We started the day with Doctors Rodan and Fields and they shared some staggering comments with us. While I won't share it all here, one comment really stood out to me.<br /><br />Dr. Rodan said, "We WILL be a global skincare giant and YOU will have the ability to influence and affect thousands for the greater good."<br /><br /> Whoa.<br /><br /> Have you ever thought about what that looks like for you.....to influence and affect thousands for the greater good? For me personally, it's to be a Kingdom builder for the Lord and to share the love of Christ.</span><br />
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On the way back from breakfast, I made a stop at the chapel there at the Four Seasons resort. When I walked in and looked straight ahead, I saw this view. It was the mountain again that I had blogged about earlier. It was another moment in time to sit, reflect and yes, pray. What a responsibility to be called to.<br />
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<br /><br /> There are going to be some mountains you're going to have to go around: negative people, difficult situations, and friends who look at you like you're crazy because of your commitment to the Lord. You're going to have to keep the mountain into perspective and remember there's another side you haven't seen yet. But you won't get there....you won't "influence and affect thousands for the greater good" if you waste your time staying at the bottom of the mountain and giving every excuse as to why living the Christ-centered life is so hard and so tiresome. <br />
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I was reminded of Proverbs 16:20, <em>"Those who listen to instruction will prosper; those who trust the LORD will be joyful."</em><br /><br />Listen to the Lord's instruction and live in joy knowing you're being obedient!Barbie Bassetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12150101761958412998noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7871630210368302281.post-60688239243209547432013-05-29T10:36:00.001-05:002013-05-29T10:36:26.034-05:00The Mountain in Bora Bora<span class="userContent">When we arrived in Bora Bora, I was fascinated with this mountain. It's just an incredible site to see and is actually the side crater of the volcano that lies beneath the water. Who would've thought lava could pile high enough to create this peak? Every time I go outside, I look at that mountain and wondered "What's on the other side?" </span><br />
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<span class="userContent"><br /><br />We took a jeep tour on that island--yes, where that mountain is. I wasn't too thrilled with this climb in an old vehicle that looked like it hadn't had a brake inspection in 20 years. I don't care for heights, especially when rocks are sliding under our tires and we are inches away from death over a cliff.<br /><br /> When we got to the other side of this mountain and stepped out of the jeep, the view took my breath away. My eyes couldn't take it all in and were in overload. Now I knew why I've been so mesmerized by this mountain and why I needed to get to the other side!<br /><br />Your spiritual walk of faith can often look like an incredible mountain to you.You watch others have faith and walk through the storms in life and come out victorious on the other side. You wonder if or when you'll get to that point of being able to place your problems and issues into the hands of the Father. But it's so easy to get comfortable on your side of the mountain because of the fear of the steep climb and the falling rocks that may come down in front of you, not to mention the dramatic drop off the mountain just inches away. Because of fear of failure, you're simply stuck with admiring the mountain but never going to the other side.</span><br />
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Hebrews 11:1 says, "<em>Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see."</em> 2 Corinthians 5:7 says, "<em>We live by faith, not by sight."</em> 1 Corinthians 2:5 says,<em> "...so that your faith might not rest on men's wisdom but on God's power."</em><br />
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So my question to the guide on our tour was: Has anyone ever climbed this mountain? The answer is no. It's too steep so the people just go around it by going on the other side. Interesting....<br /><br /> If you knew what's on the other side of your spiritual mountain, you'd go around it. There's no need to climb it when you can go around it. Move forward, in faith, and get to the other side so you can see what's ahead in your growing relationship with the Lord. </span><br />Barbie Bassetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12150101761958412998noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7871630210368302281.post-35470810268620565172013-05-03T11:03:00.000-05:002013-05-03T11:03:15.402-05:00Thoughts on Emails & Social MediaBeing in the public eye for the last 18 years, I get my share of critiques. With the advent of the internet and social media, they come more often than they would should someone take the time to sit down and write a handwritten letter to express their disdain. I remember asking my predecessor, the late Woodie Assaf, if he received as many emails as I did when it came to critical viewers? He said, "If I did, I wouldn't care because I'd tell them where they could put it." <br />
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I received these emails just this week:<br />
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"Maybe I should get a job as a weatherman. It's the ONLY job I know of that a
person can be 100% WRONG and still keep their jobs. You and others have said,
"make your plans for there's no rain in the forecast". So, that's what I do, to
ONLY be poured on. Today is only one example of the past weather reports. What
bothers me the most, we get your forecast, make our plans, and when the weather
is TOTALLY different from the forecast, then the reporting changes to fit the
actual weather. Seems to me, a "WEATHER ROCK" would be a lot more accurate. If
what you all report is coming from some other source, such as National Weather
Service, maybe another source would be a thought. Please don't take this
personal, because it's not meant to be."<br />
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;">"You look great tonight.
There are about 50+ of us women watching from all different walks of
life.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;">You look very professional. But can
we get you to cut you hair?" Anonymous</span><br />
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I had even posted one of these emails on my public Facebook page this week. While many were shocked that viewers take the time to email their critiques, one viewer sent me this suggestion:<br />
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"As with many jobs in dealing with the public and being such a public figure being in tv as you are I'm sure there are many trying times. I would greatly appreciate it if you would just ignore the comments from negative thoughts and negative persons comments to you and please don't share on Facebook. As one adult to another we have to look over these comments and move forward. Thank you and have a blessed day. PS-- whining gets nothing accomplished." <br />
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A few people have asked why I share some of my emails? My reasoning is simple: to expose how superficially critical we can sometimes be. It's amazing the freedom we feel when we can hide behind a computer keyboard, throw stones and hide. And let's face it, emails and social media have made us more susceptible to everyone else's opinion, barbs, jabs and yes, even the "constructive criticism" (is there really such a thing?) <br />
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I began to think how I would be taken if I were to walk into my local bank and tell the bank teller, "I don't like how you're doing your job. My first grader can count money faster than you. And honey child, that outfit you have on is a hot mess. I hope you don't mind that I'm giving you constructive criticism because you know I love you. I just want to help you do your job better since so many people come in here every day and look up to you." I believe I'd be sucker punched and then thrown OUT of the bank. So why do we think it's perfectly permissible to tell others what we think of them?<br />
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Psalm 19:14 says, <em>"Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer."</em><br />
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Tapping out your thoughts on a keyboard is easy to do. Before you do, think about the implications of what you're about to share. Would it be considered acceptable in the Lord's sight? If not, hit the backspace key and try again.<br />
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Barbie Bassetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12150101761958412998noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7871630210368302281.post-47227987458702194312013-04-15T10:36:00.001-05:002013-04-15T10:36:19.995-05:00Don't Put Him in a BoxUntil last weekend, we haven't moved in 16 years. One thing I've learned about moving: the boxes multiply like bunnies. Just when you think you've emptied all of the boxes and put things into their proper place, you find more boxes waiting to be unloaded. It's a never-ending pile it seems.<br />
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While I stared at the pile of empty boxes, I felt the Holy Spirit remind me of the many times I've placed God in a box. While I may have prayed for an answer to a complex situation and begged for God to move on my behalf, I've spiritually limited Him by not believing He would REALLY answer my prayer or perhaps I believed I hadn't been good enough for Him to be concerned about my worries. So, without knowing it, I've put God in a box.<br />
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Hebrews 11:6 says, <em>"But without faith, it is impossible to please him; for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them who diligently seek him."</em> <br />
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If God has no limits, then neither should our prayers. God exists and operates outside of the four space-time dimensions of boxes and the world He created. Therefore, we should pray that way. Even our hardest prayers are easy for the One who created, sees and knows all. And it doesn't matter how long or how loud you pray. It all boils down to if you believe there is no limit to God's power to answer your prayer.<br />
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God can answer your prayers. Because He can, you can pray with fervor, ferocity, focus, and see His favor on your circumstance. God is not going to stay in the little box I've put Him in.<br />
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<em>(Barbie will be the guest speaker this Thursday at First Baptist Church of Madison's ladies dinner.)</em>Barbie Bassetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12150101761958412998noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7871630210368302281.post-91352514377504044462013-03-15T10:20:00.001-05:002013-03-15T10:23:27.499-05:00The Writing on the FloorsOur new home is almost ready for the Bassett family to take up residence. It's been 16 years since we last moved. It was at that time in 1996 that I have left my television job in Chattanooga to move back home to Mississippi and marry my husband. Now 3 kids later and lots of acquisitions, it's a bigger project and it takes much longer, too.<br />
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While the floors were in transition in the new house, I asked the children to come up with their favorite Bible verses, handed them a jumbo black Sharpie marker, and gave them the instructions: write on the floors. Will, our 7 year old, had a look on his face that read <em>'Last time I did this, I got in trouble'</em> and asked, "You mean we can write on the floor and <strong>not </strong>get in trouble?" After asking why I was allowing them to write on the floors their scriptures, I explained how nice it would be to be surrounded by God's Word all of the time, especially when they're having difficult days. So, they commenced to writing first in the children's den.<br />
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Afterwards, they went to their bedrooms to write another favorite verse along with the verse I chose to pray over each of them while I was expecting them and still pray over them to this day which I shared in my first book "<em>Forecasts & Faith: 5 Keys to Weathering the Storms of Life".</em><br />
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Did you know the act of writing scripture is dotted all throughout the Bible? God wrote on stone tablets for Moses (Deuteronomy 10:1-2), the Israelites wrote scriptures on their door frames (Deuteronomy 6:4-9), the Israelites wrote on the stones taken from the Jordan River (Deuteronomy 27:1-8), and writing would be a witness against Israel (Isaiah 30:8). John even stated in John 21:25, <em>"Jesus did many other things as well. If every one of them were written down, I suppose that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written."</em><br />
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Psalm 119:11 says, "<em>I have hidden your word in my heart that I may not sin against you."</em><br />
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I want our new home to be a place of spiritual revelation, peace and loving wisdom. It was a lesson for our children that we're not only hiding God's Word in our hearts, but hiding it in our home, too.<br />
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<em>(Inquiries are being taken for the remainder of 2013. If your church or organization is wanting Barbie to speak at an upcoming conference, please visit </em><a href="http://www.barbiebassett.com/"><em>www.barbiebassett.com</em></a><em> and click "Contact Info".)</em><br />
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Barbie Bassetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12150101761958412998noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7871630210368302281.post-79133425758095133942013-02-22T08:48:00.002-06:002013-02-22T08:48:33.954-06:00Living With AccusersHave you ever been accused of saying something you didn't say, doing something you didn't do or taking something you didn't take? Here recently, a couple of people whom I dearly love have been accused of doing something they didn't do. Their names were printed in news papers, posted on pseudo-news blogs and even mentioned briefly on television news reports. It wasn't pleasant to watch, read or listen to because I knew the truth of the matter. When you've been wrongfully accused of something, it's a tough road to travel.<br />
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The word "satan" in Hebrew means "adversary, one who plots against another". In the Greek translation, "satan" is <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">diabolos</span> which means <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">"slanderer, </span><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">one</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">who</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">throws</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">(something)</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">across </span><span id="hotword" name="hotword">the</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">path</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">of</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">another". Also in Greek, another translation is the word</span><span id="hotword"> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">epiboulos</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">which means "plotter".</span></span><br />
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<span><span name="hotword">Are you seeing a connection here? The truth is no where near <strong><em>someone</em></strong> who is accusing another, who plots against another, who slanders or plots against another.</span></span><span> </span><br />
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<span>Chances are, you've been accused of doing something you truly did not do. When you are facing accusations, it's a natural reflex to defend yourself, your character and your integrity. But God says He will defend you. Zechariah 4:6 says, <em>"Not by might not by power, but by my Spirit, says the LORD Almighty." </em></span><br />
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<span>So what do you do when you find yourself in someone else's cross hairs? Stay strong. Press against the slandering words, the hurt and the pain which the adversary is throwing your way and look at what Psalm 34:7 says, <em>"The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear Him, and rescues them." </em></span><br />
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<span>There's no need to fear man's words when God has His angels surrounding you on all sides. Your accuser doesn't have God's blessing of angels around them.</span>Barbie Bassetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12150101761958412998noreply@blogger.com1