In The Secret of His Presence

I have been enjoying my break from blogging for a while but I do have this one jewel to share. As part of my morning Quiet Time I have been compiling a notebook/journal of sorts that includes scripture excerpts, songs of praise, hymns, and worthy poetry. My notebook serves as a great source of help for me as I attempt to come before my Father. Many times I need some prompting to get my meditations started and this particular poem that I wish to share has become one that I refer to at least weekly as I ask the Saviour to search my heart.
~ In The Secret of His Presence~
In the secret of His presence
How my soul delights to hide!
Oh, how precious are the lessons
Which I learn at Jesus' side!

Earthly cares can never vex me,
Neither trials lay me low;
For when Satan comes to tempt me,
To the secret place I go.

I tell Him all my doubts, my griefs,
And fears; Oh, how patiently He listens,
And my drooping soul He cheers.

Do you think He ne'er reproves me?
What a false friend He would be
If He never, never told me
Of the sins which He must see.

Would you like to know the sweetness
Of the secret of the Lord?
Go and rest beneath His shadow-
This shall then be your reward!

And when e'er you leave the silence of
That happy meeting place,
You will surely bear the image of the
Master in your face!
-Ellen Lakshmi Goreh
Next time you need a little prompting for your heart's devotion, I hope that you will consider this work by Ellen Goreh a great aid as you ponder your Saviour.

Enjoy Dixie Living,
Homespun HoneyBee

Bring on the Sizzle

Although not officially, summer has definitely come to Hotlanta. Today we are enjoying some Sesame Ginger Marinated Pork with Grilled Pineapple Slices. I got most of the strawberries put up into freezer jam from the 18 gallons of berries we picked this week and after tonight's outing we will enjoy some fresh Strawberry Sorbet. The kids just love watching the ice cream maker spin them up a delicious treat! As the countdown to camp draws closer I am happy to be on schedule with the culottes that I am making for Tender Heart. As with most of Mommy's Creations, she can hardly wait to wear them...am I mean for making her wait?

It was nice to get the rest of our summer garden put out this week. With the exception of the beans it looks like everything is off to a good start. As soon as the plants are a little bigger we will get them in the ground. I would definitely have to say this is the beginning of one of the best summers we have had together in a while. We are all enjoying to longer and more playful days and the time together our more relaxed summer schedule affords. Daily I am grateful to God for the privilege of homeschooling and the precious gift of time with my children that it brings.

While reading my Bible this morning it occurred to me that I had been impatient with my "helpers" earlier this week as we planted and they spilled soil as we potted some of our container plants. As I recalled my earlier frustrations I was painfully aware of my shortcomings as I attempt to lead a Christ-like life. As a parent, what right do I have to become impatient with my children when God has always been longsuffering with me? When I am frustrated by the shortcomings of others, why do I think I have any right to feel that way when daily I know I fail the One who matters most? Praise God for His longsuffering!

Tonight for Family Fun Night we will be attending the graduation recital of one of the young men at our church. He is the eldest brother of Freckles' violin teacher and we are all looking forward to a lovely evening together enjoying his artistry. As many of you know Fine Arts education has always been high on the list of priorities for our family but I suspect the promise of cake at the reception has most of my brood looking forward to tonight with greater anticipation than that of lovely Viola tunes! Hey, a Mama can always hope.

In constant pursuit...

The Homestylemom