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PastorThomas
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Name: David
Country: United States
State: Florida
Metro: Fort Myers
Birthday: 7/14/1949
Gender: Male
Interests: music, ministry, family, football
Expertise: music arranging, music education, counseling, pastoral care
Occupation: Other
Industry: Other
Message: message me
Member Since:
5/24/2005
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| If anyone is reading this that does not know me, you probably should be aware that I went through an ordeal last week that included days of medical testing and finally gall bladder surgery. It was a challenging week. Physically and spiritually. I learned a great deal as this was my first stay of any length (five days) in a hospital and first surgical experience. I have personally visited many people in a hospital over the years as a part of my ministry as a pastor. I have not looked at this as drudgery as it has given me a chance to minister in many situations where God's intervention was needed. Last week I was at the other end of this situation . I was visited and I was ministered to. My family was amazing in giving me their love and support and I could not have made the week without each of them, including a daughter who is far away. They love me and prayed that I would made the right decision concerning surgery. Of the four doctors I was consulting with, only one seemed to make sense but my family helped me keep the right perspective through the decision process. and post surgery reports proved that I made the right decision. I also asked specific friends to pray for me to make the right decision. It was interesting to watch the reaction of friends. I had many visits in the hospital from people that I work with and work for. Their concern and attention amazed me. Some amazed me more than others in that they went far beyond who one would expect a friendship to provide. I have come through this with a strong feeling of appreciation for those around me. They are friends. And they proved it. I cannot remember a time when I have been treated more royally than through this past week. I am grateful. To God, first of all, family is second, and last but not least, my friends. | | |
| How is this accomplished? First of all, by saturating one's self with the Word of God. Then, a strong prayer focus, going beyond the daily list of wants or desires. Then evaluate your spare time in the light of His presence. Does it offend His presence? Hmmm. This one needs work in most of us. Maintaining means that when difficulties arise you are better prepared spiritually to handle them. The old song says, "and the things of earth will grow strangly dim in the light of His glory and grace." Very true. Keep working on it. It's worth it. | | |
| Last night I applied for membership to Idiots, Inc. and was accepted. My acceptance in this illustrious organization was confirmed last night as I attempted to make a plumbing repair at our house. After about three hours of sweat and frustration it became apparent that I did not possess the ability to complete the monumental task that could be so easily completed by someone who probably does not possess a Master's Degree. That is my problem. I am simply too educated to do this job and must never attempt a plumbing repair myself. After having wasted about 50 gallons of water and purchasing $20 of parts that I now can't use, I have now fulfilled all the requirements for admission into this group. Do not congratulate me. | | |
| It is finally here. Vacation. I thought it would never arrive but I am presently in the middle of it. I must say that I am enjoying myself immensely. I can tell that I am beginning to relax as I have begun to sleep more hours than usual and I am not obsessed with my Blackberry. Actually, my wonderful, georgeous wife, Chris, has hidden it from me and I am allowed to check it twice a day - at noon, and in the evening. But I am finding that being away from it is not a problem and am enjoying life preBlackberry. We are with friends in the Sevierville, Tennessee, and are laughing, playing cards, eating, sleeping and relaxing at their beautiful timeshare. And on Saturday we move to a beautiful home that has been provided for us. We are especially enjoying dialogue with our friends as we can discuss just about any subject with them and they are informed and interesting to converse with. Enough now, and back to vacation. We return to Florida the end of next week. Eat your heart out!!!
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| I read (with great interest) the comments of Pickwick12 and her experience with what was supposed to have been Christian Counseling. I completed a lengthy counseling session yesterday that was very challenging for me personally and had the Holy Spirit not been present to prompt me I don't think the outcome would have been anywhere near what it was. I presently want to seek more on the educational side of training, but the fact that my present approach to counseling, utilizing a total realization that God must be present to heal and to provide insight, seems to be working. I have seen God do amazing things in moments of counselling and mentoring. But it must remain Christ-centered, for Christ is The Healer. I am not the healer. | | |
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