I guess I'd rather not have to say this, but our potential buyer called today to tell us the deal was off, out of reach for them at this time. So for all you curious folks, I guess we'll just have to let it rest.
Disappointment? Yes, a little, but not surprising. We had begun to sense that this would be too big a stretch for them.
When I first took the call, he asked to speak with Ken. Then when the call was brief and I heard why it was brief, I was just thankful that Ken had been the one to field that call and take the brunt for me, I'm thankful he is my protector.
So, tomorrow we've been listed two weeks and no one has come by to see the place.
Ken told me that just yesterday he'd heard of some folks northwest of here just a few miles had sold within a week for considerably more that they thought they would list for, but their realtor suggested the higher listing price. That's encouraging to hear of such a quick sale & their sale price affirming our listing price is assuring as well.
Above & beyond all those details is the assurance I've/we've felt all along that God is leading us in this venture. The peace beyond all understanding. The circumstances that have not happened by chance, but by God's design. It is good to have Ken's folks here affirming verbally to us that all these little (& big) details could not "just happen". God's peace fills my heart when I'm tempted to doubt. Yet, with only 2 weeks remaining until the deadline, the doubts do come ... regularly...
The final and most poignant encouragement for me today came through God's Word during our daily evening devotions as we read from Isaiah 26. Verse 3 says "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on Thee, because he trusteth in Thee."
I know that verse in song, do you?
Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on Thee, O Lord!
Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on Thee,
Because he trusteth in Thee, O Lord, because he trusteth in Thee.
Thou will keep him in perfect peace because he trusteth in Thee.
I sang it for the family when it came my turn to suggest a special verse from the passage we read together.
Please pray for us that we will continue to put our trust in God. Each day is a further stretch of our faith. We want to be found faithful.
An email from the MB seller today made us realize that our stretching faith is also impacting him ...
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Encouragement on April 29
Ken's folks arrived today to spend some time with us. We always enjoy having them. They make it easy for themselves & us by bringing their fifth wheel camper to park on the yard. This time we have much to talk about that is new and exciting - our pending move to MB...
As Ken & I spent time talking this evening, I asked him what the encouragement was for today ... both of us had to think a bit, then he brightened and said, "Oh, I know what is very encouraging - Mom telling us about the sandy soil at the MB place. That it would be very good for gardening, allowing at least a two week earlier planting than even where they live at Morden."
You see, Ken grew up just a little east of the place we've offered to buy, where the soil is similar. His Mother knows all about gardening in sandy soil and she's a great gardener. Yes, it was encouraging to hear such rave reviews about the possibilities in gardening should we make that move.
In general, it is encouraging to have positive support from both our parents.
Of course Ken's folks like the idea about our move bringing us closer to the Klassen family, but they also endorse the ideas we've shared & affirm the benefits of the location we've chosen.
My parents, on the other hand, are losing us to the geographical distance, yet very graciously, even joyfully, they do not wish to stand in our way if God should indeed lead us to "greener pastures" in Manitoba. I can not even put into words the blessing that is to me/us. Can you imagine it with me?
We cherish the close relationship we have with my parents and our boys with their grandparents. The spontaneous visits and quick trips to see them, the days & weekends spent fishing with them at their "cottage" will be sorely missed. Yet even in this, if God is in it, we trust He will sustain & provide everything we need ... and everything they need as they enter their twilight years.
As Ken & I spent time talking this evening, I asked him what the encouragement was for today ... both of us had to think a bit, then he brightened and said, "Oh, I know what is very encouraging - Mom telling us about the sandy soil at the MB place. That it would be very good for gardening, allowing at least a two week earlier planting than even where they live at Morden."
You see, Ken grew up just a little east of the place we've offered to buy, where the soil is similar. His Mother knows all about gardening in sandy soil and she's a great gardener. Yes, it was encouraging to hear such rave reviews about the possibilities in gardening should we make that move.
In general, it is encouraging to have positive support from both our parents.
Of course Ken's folks like the idea about our move bringing us closer to the Klassen family, but they also endorse the ideas we've shared & affirm the benefits of the location we've chosen.
My parents, on the other hand, are losing us to the geographical distance, yet very graciously, even joyfully, they do not wish to stand in our way if God should indeed lead us to "greener pastures" in Manitoba. I can not even put into words the blessing that is to me/us. Can you imagine it with me?
We cherish the close relationship we have with my parents and our boys with their grandparents. The spontaneous visits and quick trips to see them, the days & weekends spent fishing with them at their "cottage" will be sorely missed. Yet even in this, if God is in it, we trust He will sustain & provide everything we need ... and everything they need as they enter their twilight years.
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Daily Encouragement
On Sunday I mentioned that I've asked the Lord for encouragement for each day regarding our Journey to the Future. It has been interesting to watch how God is leading even in that. It causes us be alert for His action.
Sometimes the encouragement comes through the Word. Sometimes through friends - have you noticed? Sometimes through direct action as it pertains to the actual purchase & sale.
ALL cause us to be alert, watching for when, where, & how God may be working this scenario out for His glory.
Yesterday was the day we sent off the "larger" downpayment that is due April 30th. It was a blessing to see that the funds were in place when we needed it - in time to send it and get there by the 30th. And it wasn't a stretch to get those funds in place with enough left over to carry on our day to day necessities - we can see how God had it all planned long ago.
Honestly, to me, yesterday felt like there was nothing to report. Those funds had been in place for a while already...in retrospect, however, that was a major step in the process. I was a little disappointed though as I looked for further encouragement.
As each day creeps by into yesterday, we watch and wait and we're tempted to wonder how or if God's will is for this place to sell by the deadline we've been given. Yet, in my heart I believe this is God's leading and I anticipate how He will exalt Himself by making possible that which seems impossible. We've discussed as a family that God may be testing our faith. How strong is our faith? Do we believe that God can work even to the last day? He can! Will we trust Him?
As a side note, we did get a phone call yesterday from someone interested in buying only our chickens as they had heard that we were selling ... ah-h-h, no we're not selling just the chickens - it's either the whole farm/business as a package, the farm and business separately OR we stay and continue on with the business as is.
If this is where God wants us to be and He so directs, then we want to be exactly right here with contentment - "Godliness with contentment is great gain" I Timothy 6:6
Sometimes the encouragement comes through the Word. Sometimes through friends - have you noticed? Sometimes through direct action as it pertains to the actual purchase & sale.
ALL cause us to be alert, watching for when, where, & how God may be working this scenario out for His glory.
Yesterday was the day we sent off the "larger" downpayment that is due April 30th. It was a blessing to see that the funds were in place when we needed it - in time to send it and get there by the 30th. And it wasn't a stretch to get those funds in place with enough left over to carry on our day to day necessities - we can see how God had it all planned long ago.
Honestly, to me, yesterday felt like there was nothing to report. Those funds had been in place for a while already...in retrospect, however, that was a major step in the process. I was a little disappointed though as I looked for further encouragement.
As each day creeps by into yesterday, we watch and wait and we're tempted to wonder how or if God's will is for this place to sell by the deadline we've been given. Yet, in my heart I believe this is God's leading and I anticipate how He will exalt Himself by making possible that which seems impossible. We've discussed as a family that God may be testing our faith. How strong is our faith? Do we believe that God can work even to the last day? He can! Will we trust Him?
As a side note, we did get a phone call yesterday from someone interested in buying only our chickens as they had heard that we were selling ... ah-h-h, no we're not selling just the chickens - it's either the whole farm/business as a package, the farm and business separately OR we stay and continue on with the business as is.
If this is where God wants us to be and He so directs, then we want to be exactly right here with contentment - "Godliness with contentment is great gain" I Timothy 6:6
Monday, April 28, 2008
April 27th Encouragement
I am asking God for encouragement each day. Today, April 27th, I was encouraged by the verses on faith from the previous post.
... and then this evening we went to a benefit concert by "The Blue Collar Harmony Boys". We suspected it would be beautiful music because of the word "harmony" in their name.
We weren't disappointed.
For the most part, these young men sang accapella with a few instruments for accompaniment in some of their songs. Acoustic & bass guitars along with a mandolin sweetly accentuated a few of the songs.
We were so blessed, so glad we had gone.
How does this apply & encourage me regarding our potential move? These guys are from MacGregor, MB. just 20 minutes from the farm we have offered to buy. A music group of that quality from that area? We consider that a blessing.
Not only are these young men from the same area we are contemplating ... we discovered that they are also my relatives. Three of them are sons of two of my second cousins on my Dad's side of the family. Ken & I attended Millar College of the Bible with their parents wa-a-a-y back.
And - the church they attend may be a possibilty for us out there also??!!??
Finding a Church, to fellowship with, is of utmost importance to us. We did a little scouting when we were out there, but found few local churches.
BUT if God wants us there He will have a fellowship for us there also - He deems it more important than we do. He will provide, of that we are certain.
What would we do without our Omnipotent, Omniscient God? Christians are so-o-o-o blessed!!!!!!!!!
... and then this evening we went to a benefit concert by "The Blue Collar Harmony Boys". We suspected it would be beautiful music because of the word "harmony" in their name.
We weren't disappointed.
For the most part, these young men sang accapella with a few instruments for accompaniment in some of their songs. Acoustic & bass guitars along with a mandolin sweetly accentuated a few of the songs.
We were so blessed, so glad we had gone.
How does this apply & encourage me regarding our potential move? These guys are from MacGregor, MB. just 20 minutes from the farm we have offered to buy. A music group of that quality from that area? We consider that a blessing.
Not only are these young men from the same area we are contemplating ... we discovered that they are also my relatives. Three of them are sons of two of my second cousins on my Dad's side of the family. Ken & I attended Millar College of the Bible with their parents wa-a-a-y back.
And - the church they attend may be a possibilty for us out there also??!!??
Finding a Church, to fellowship with, is of utmost importance to us. We did a little scouting when we were out there, but found few local churches.
BUT if God wants us there He will have a fellowship for us there also - He deems it more important than we do. He will provide, of that we are certain.
What would we do without our Omnipotent, Omniscient God? Christians are so-o-o-o blessed!!!!!!!!!
Sunday, April 27, 2008
"Trust will bring Triumph"
I like quotes. I like this quote!
And God's Words are the best words of all:
"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 that diligently seek Him." Hebrews 11:6
"...for whatsoever is not of faith is sin." Romans 14:23
And God's Words are the best words of all:
"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 that diligently seek Him." Hebrews 11:6
"...for whatsoever is not of faith is sin." Romans 14:23
Friday, April 25, 2008
Journey to the Future - Selling?!
We're selling this place as a package - the acreage with a viable farm operation including the 80 acres that is a mere mile from the new development of the soon to be city of Warman. Part of the reason for our move is to build up a farm that will carry our family into the future. A farm here is not a long term vision. Within 15-20 years it will likely be town lots...and farming next to a town is fraught with frustrations.
As we consider our family, with the ages of our sons ... If we're going to move the farm, now is the best time to pull up roots and venture elsewhere before they put down roots here permanently.
It is not a decision made lightly. Much prayer and seeking the Lord has gone into this already - and we continue to seek God's will. He can yet and may well close this door of opportunity, but we have to try this door.
God has made such amazing indications already that we find ourselves looking with expectation for His next direction.
And yes, we do vaccilate emotionally between excitement and dismay.
Excitement because:
- it's something new - new adventures are often exciting for those in on the action.
- it is a long anticipated move
- seeing God lead & excerising faith in Him
- going through this faith building exercise with our sons
- that place in MB has so much potential
- ministry opportunities that we could carry out based on the ranch in MB.
- the opportunity to live debt-free
Dismay because:
- moving away from my family
- moving away from dear friends
- moving away from family fellowship
- finding a righteous Church with which to fellowship
- leaving behind a great business that we started from grass roots - which is also our established income and going into a new life where we will need to re-establish an income/market
- leaving business clients that have become faithful friends, we wouldn't want them to be hurt in the process of the changes in our lives.
- leaving the home we've built, made comfortable for our family's needs.
- not to mention finding new contacts like Doctors, Dentists ... etc.
It's a big move, but all will fit into place if God is in it. We know that beyond the shadow of a doubt.
As we consider our family, with the ages of our sons ... If we're going to move the farm, now is the best time to pull up roots and venture elsewhere before they put down roots here permanently.
It is not a decision made lightly. Much prayer and seeking the Lord has gone into this already - and we continue to seek God's will. He can yet and may well close this door of opportunity, but we have to try this door.
God has made such amazing indications already that we find ourselves looking with expectation for His next direction.
And yes, we do vaccilate emotionally between excitement and dismay.
Excitement because:
- it's something new - new adventures are often exciting for those in on the action.
- it is a long anticipated move
- seeing God lead & excerising faith in Him
- going through this faith building exercise with our sons
- that place in MB has so much potential
- ministry opportunities that we could carry out based on the ranch in MB.
- the opportunity to live debt-free
Dismay because:
- moving away from my family
- moving away from dear friends
- moving away from family fellowship
- finding a righteous Church with which to fellowship
- leaving behind a great business that we started from grass roots - which is also our established income and going into a new life where we will need to re-establish an income/market
- leaving business clients that have become faithful friends, we wouldn't want them to be hurt in the process of the changes in our lives.
- leaving the home we've built, made comfortable for our family's needs.
- not to mention finding new contacts like Doctors, Dentists ... etc.
It's a big move, but all will fit into place if God is in it. We know that beyond the shadow of a doubt.
Another Added Blessing
... came through a faithful friend who helped me to finally sew up some new curtains that I had started wa-a-ay back for my bedroom. And she even quickly stitched up some toss cushions to match for on my bed.
All in less than a day!!!!!
Simply amazing to this fumbling seamstress ... or is it my stubborn machine? Either way it wasn't getting done by me.
I count it a blessing!
Here's a peek:
All in less than a day!!!!!
Simply amazing to this fumbling seamstress ... or is it my stubborn machine? Either way it wasn't getting done by me.
I count it a blessing!
Here's a peek:
Added Blessing
One added blessing on the "Journey to the Future" is finally getting a few things finished on the house that have needed doing for a long while ... granted now there was also money in the budget for these tasks to be done.
A slightly major renovation took place in our basement when my dh and sons finished out my laundry room properly with almost 12 feet of counter space and sink, cabinets and flooring. It looks wonderful and makes doing the laundry easier and more pleasant in the bright room.
Thank you guys!
Now, I just may want to stay here to put it to good use ... but only if God directs us to stay here. (pst - the other place has a nice laundry area also, smile).
A slightly major renovation took place in our basement when my dh and sons finished out my laundry room properly with almost 12 feet of counter space and sink, cabinets and flooring. It looks wonderful and makes doing the laundry easier and more pleasant in the bright room.
Thank you guys!
Now, I just may want to stay here to put it to good use ... but only if God directs us to stay here. (pst - the other place has a nice laundry area also, smile).
II Chronicles 20 = Encouragement
3 ... And Jehoshaphat feared,and set himself to seek the LORD, and proclaimed a fast ...
4 ... And Judah gathered themselves together, to ask help of the LORD: ... to seek the LORD ...
12 ... neither know we what to do: but our eyes are upon thee.
13 ... And all Judah stood before the LORD, with their little ones, their wives and their children ...
15 ... Thus saith the LORD unto you, Be not afraid nor dismayed by reason ... for the battle is not yours, but God's ...
17 Ye shall not need to fight in this battle: set yourselves, stand ye still, and see the salvation of the LORD with you, ... : fear not, nor be dismayed; ... for the LORD will be with you.
18 ... and the inhabitants ... fell before the LORD, worshipping the LORD ...
20 And they rose early in the morning and went forth ...Believe on the LORD your God, so shall ye be established; believe his prophets, so shall ye prosper.
21 ... Praise the LORD; for his mercy endureth for ever.
The Word of the Lord is alive, applying to every time and place. It was encouraging to me when I read this portion with our "Journey to the Future" on my mind and in my heart before the Lord.
This is the portion noted to me by a friend. It had spoken to her heart in her/their situation as well as to ours.
II Chronicles 20 spoke to my heart as well ... Encouragement from the Lord through a friend.
Just one of the blessings of a Christian's life.
Thank you, GOD!
4 ... And Judah gathered themselves together, to ask help of the LORD: ... to seek the LORD ...
12 ... neither know we what to do: but our eyes are upon thee.
13 ... And all Judah stood before the LORD, with their little ones, their wives and their children ...
15 ... Thus saith the LORD unto you, Be not afraid nor dismayed by reason ... for the battle is not yours, but God's ...
17 Ye shall not need to fight in this battle: set yourselves, stand ye still, and see the salvation of the LORD with you, ... : fear not, nor be dismayed; ... for the LORD will be with you.
18 ... and the inhabitants ... fell before the LORD, worshipping the LORD ...
20 And they rose early in the morning and went forth ...Believe on the LORD your God, so shall ye be established; believe his prophets, so shall ye prosper.
21 ... Praise the LORD; for his mercy endureth for ever.
The Word of the Lord is alive, applying to every time and place. It was encouraging to me when I read this portion with our "Journey to the Future" on my mind and in my heart before the Lord.
This is the portion noted to me by a friend. It had spoken to her heart in her/their situation as well as to ours.
II Chronicles 20 spoke to my heart as well ... Encouragement from the Lord through a friend.
Just one of the blessings of a Christian's life.
Thank you, GOD!
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Journey - More Encouragment
Today Ken got another phone call from our potential buyer, the husband. These people see the opportunity for what it really is - a viable farming operation that pays it's way. An opportunity for them to achieve a long held dream to get back onto a farm.
They want to carry on with the business we've established. They're asking LOTS of questions and they're very willing to learn.
Every dream of theirs is a fit for this place ... like today when she called me, she mentioned that they'd like to have some sheep sometime. Well, guess what, we've had sheep here too - it's all set up for sheep...and right now sheep are low ...
She saw that right away for what it was - another opportunity to diversify into another income stream.
They are believers also - they are praying about this opportunity for them - talking to the same God that we are.
Oh, we serve an awesome God. No matter where this goes, we've seen the Lord and that is worth more than all the rest of this whole experience.
They want to carry on with the business we've established. They're asking LOTS of questions and they're very willing to learn.
Every dream of theirs is a fit for this place ... like today when she called me, she mentioned that they'd like to have some sheep sometime. Well, guess what, we've had sheep here too - it's all set up for sheep...and right now sheep are low ...
She saw that right away for what it was - another opportunity to diversify into another income stream.
They are believers also - they are praying about this opportunity for them - talking to the same God that we are.
Oh, we serve an awesome God. No matter where this goes, we've seen the Lord and that is worth more than all the rest of this whole experience.
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