Oct 26, 2022·edited Oct 26, 2022Liked by Donny Mac
I don't know if it's that you speak to universal truths that impact all of us, or if God's timing has a way of bringing these prayer walks home to me at just the right times. In the last two weeks I have found myself publicly making the claim twice that relationship is my #1 priority: first with God, then others and myself. Last night I was convicted about making sure that claim was true and that I was living it and not just saying it. Through my writing I have had the chance to get to know a LOT of people. As my reader audience has grown it occurs to me that it's easier for someone to fall through the cracks and I might not notice I haven't heard from them in awhile. So last night I prayed that God would bring those people to mind so I could reach out to them. Needless to say, I had a very "busy" morning because as I touched base with the people God put on my heart, I had so many amazing conversations and opportunities to pray for people and let them know I cared. By 10:30am I still was not dressed and my daily to-do list had not a single thing checked off. But I knew I was doing what should have been at the top of the list all along. People. I have time. I have flexibility of schedule. I want to be available to people. My favorite saying is, "how can I help?". When I say it, I want to mean it and not be too busy to help if I can. Thanks for another thought provoking walk, Don - the park was beautiful, too. Glad you're not too busy to keep these weekly "appointments" with all of us - they are much appreciated!
Oct 27, 2022·edited Oct 27, 2022Liked by Donny Mac
Donny, I listened to the prayer walk coming home from choir practice just now. I had the speakers in the car up real loud so I could truly hear and take in every word that was spoken. It was dark of course, but I knew God was providing the light for me to listen. He does that. If we're all honest with ourselves, we've all been guilty of this at one time or another. I know I have, and I have to be honest right now, I've felt I've may have done it recently. This and many other things, God has really brought to my attention the last eight months or so. Do I want to sit around alone in this house and retreat, or do I want to be there for others, love them, listen to their needs, and just let them know someone cares for them. When I've truly opened my heart up to God, that's when God has provided such opportunities. It's not every day, but I try to remain open to it.
Working full time and remotely from home has it's disadvantages when it comes to being able to be available in the physical sense for someone, but there are many useful ways we can reach out and connect. The internet, social media, text, email, etc., are good ways, if we use them correctly and within the will of God to do so. To be honest, I much prefer a phone call or meet in person, but I understand that's not always possible and it depends on the circumstances of course. But what I'm trying to say is, I totally agree we each need to evaluate where we are, what are we doing, and serve GOD first and foremost with the gifts and talents he has provided each of us to serve others and their needs. There are many ways we can be there to encourage others. Use whatever means we have available within the circumstances or what that need may be.
I will say last week was a very challenging week for me as many of you know. Last Wednesday, I have to admit I pretty much hit rock bottom. I'm glad I did not listen to the Devil on the not reaching out for prayer from this community. I listened to the Lord, and he said to share. I can't tell you how humble and blessed I feel right now by the messages I've received and the love from this community. It has meant the world to me. Am I in a better place this week? The answer is yes and Praise the Lord I am. I will let God guide me in the next steps to take. I want to say thank you so much for the prayers. They were definitely felt, and I would not be feeling more like myself again if that didn't happen. If you have a prayer request, reach out and let us know. We're a family here, and we care about one another. I've been a recipient, and I cannot tell you how much they were felt and needed.
Donny, thank you again for challenging me to see if I'm too "busy" for others. I will take all this in and pray and hopefully let God open those opportunities but also help me to always be open and aware of those when they occur.
Take care and God bless each of you, and thank you again for all the prayers.
This walk brought to my mind a study that, initially, may seem to go in the opposite direction of what is being proposed in its message, but in the end they converge.
The reflection proposed in the study was based on just one line from 1 Timothy 4:16 when Paul gives advice to Timothy to “take care of yourself”, the first part of the phrase “be careful” is a warning to have the habit of pay constant attention to ourselves. The second part deals with what we are and what we do - it is not a narcissistic look at the self - but that taking care of yourself requires combining “gift with motivation”, there is no point in having motivation if you don't have aptitude, you waste energy and reap frustration.
I understand when you say "we must always be available to the other", but it is necessary to consider that not everyone has this gift, for some God gave the gift of being in the rear, see the example of Paul who was always ahead - Acts 17:14 – Paul was sent, but Silas and Timothy stayed in the rear.
“From yourself” teaches us that we need to seek in God “who we are and what we can do”, that is, what our gift is, which can be “stay” or “go”; “speak” or “listen”; "give" or "receive"...
In my view, the most important thing is not whether we are too busy, working too much or too idle, but being attentive to do God's will, letting God use us for what He wants to do with us.
Once again, Donny, the prayer walk today has challenged me to think about what does being “busy “ really mean in my life. Recently a very dear friend of mine was seriously ill and away from home, at first I told myself I’m busy can’t go to help her if needed. As I thought and prayed about it, my heart told me that I wasn’t too busy to take the trip to my friend if she needed my assistance. My friend has recovered and is doing well,still going to plan a trip to visit. The whole situation reminded me not to be “too busy” to cherish time together. Just today had another are you busy moment. My daughter called me very early this morning with question “ Are you busy today.” At first I thought yes I am, but then said not really ( knew my “busy” plans could be changed), my grandson was running a high fever causing him to be confused and incoherent. She needed me to come be with him for day, she had to work. I was busy today, taking him to urgent care, making him food, and just staying there in case he needed something. Oh, he’s doing better, fever is down but still not quite himself. As I get older, the saying“ Life happens when you’re busy making other plans.” is so true. We need to remember to take time to appreciate, enjoy each day we are given and to cherish moments with family and friends.
But know I know that I need to stop and take time with her 🙏🙏 it's amazing how we just work or what ever to take time for someone but I think Alot of mine is when I work it keeps my mind off other things that are bothering me 🙏🙏 please keep praying for me and my son the good Lord knows all about our needs 🙏🙏 Thank you again for what you do cause it has made a difference in my life 🙏🙏🙏
Donny it's so funny how the past couple prayer walks you had an brought up things that I need to stop and look at my self 🙏🙏 I have a good friend and I helped her move but sense then I haven't been to see her and she keeps asking me when I am going back to see her and when she asks me the only thing I tell her is I have been working 🙏🙏
Love your Prayer Walks! So weird though ~ this was the main point from my blog entry about retirement this week: "I love this change of pace because I actually have more quality time to spend with people." From reading the comments God must be sending the same message out to a lot of us right now. I did spend the entire weekend with my older daughter -- who is a stressed teacher. We did a float tank and took several long walks out in Nature. It was good to have the time with her. xoxo
I'm not sure how to even comment on this. I have felt "busy", overwhelmed "busy" in the last few weeks. I have the cookie business and I currently am doing so many orders. I'm trying to pack and get ready to move. But I have also spent time with my friends. I will be leaving them soon on my new journey. Our little group is always there for each other. I like to think that I wouldn't be too busy for one of them, but I'm sure that I have been in the past. Its like a wake up call to pay closer attention to that. Thanks Donny.
With my chemo brain I forgot to post this as I started writing Thursday morning with my PC. Donny I have listen to the prayer walk a few times. I take heart that as long as I serve God, we are doing exactly as we are supposed to. Even if you lack work, he has assignments for you to accomplish.Someday soon, he will restore your dreams in a powerful way. God allows situations in your work and life that will make no sense to your dreams-aspirations that you thought had come from him. Nevertheless, God instructs you to carry on as if working for him, rather than dwelling on your circumstances. That is because it is through those situations that he becomes your central focus and you learn to cling to him above all other things- including your ambitions. I have serve to others pretty much my whole life since I can remember. At 10 years old our parents will bring us to the orphanage and help the nuns tend the gardens and to date still have no clue about garden and we help clean up the kitchen. Now I serve my community I volunteer few places and serve sweet also 🤣😂🤣I have to throw this in. Thank you for this week prayer walk can’t wait for next week .🙏
Can I ever relate to being overwhelmed. For the past two weeks I have been trying to learn a new job. So much information is coming at me and I am trying to get comfortable with the work environment, a very busy downtown commute, etc. I hope that things settle down soon so I can attend to things that I have been neglecting. It’s especially important that I learn how to prioritize things in my life and that what I do “adds value,” as you have put it. The verse that comes to mind is Ephesians 5:16 – “Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” It’s more important than ever for me to really apply this verse! Let me echo Cathey Cone – glad that you aren’t too busy to have these prayer walks!
I have a friend that would say she was busy and too busy to give me a ride to church. I’ve had others tell me they were too busy when really hanging out with me was the last thing on their mind. They were all professing Christians. I got to where I just didn’t ask. When the shoe was on the other foot I would always try to be there for them. Many, many years ago I was with a few people who said they were concerned about someone who needed prayer. We stayed up past 2am. I needed to work the next day and I indeed went to work. The others there stayed home and called in sick. I must say being retired helps me be there for others much better. I have an older friend I want to make myself more available to. You are much like her. When it comes to prayer she just prays right in the moment. This is why God is openly using you. Like you said Be Available for God.
Anyone who knows me any at all knows I’m a people pleaser, always wanted to make my parents proud,never got in trouble, in my daddy’s words the 1 of 7 kids that he knew he’d never have any trouble out of. But One of my greatest regrets in life was using the “busy” excuse to my mom when I was 19, because I was in a hurry to go on a date. The simplest thing she wanted me to stop by a store to pick up something for her. So when I finally agreed to go because I felt guilty she wouldn’t let me she just sent me on my date... I have carried that guilt in my heart and still do 18 years later.... currently crying while typing this... I realized that day in the very second my heart was burdened that you NEVER put off anything for your own selfish wants ... 🙏
As usual your guided walk spoke to me as it was directed right at my heart. How many friends have just slipped away with the phase, maybe later, I’m busy or don’t have time right now? How many times have I been “busy” with a family member? I’m working on balance and setting new goals. Thank you for reminding me to put people first. Love ya❤️❤️
I walked this morning listening for the second time. (Hey, I must be a slow learner.) This walk hit home with me. I have been “busy” more than I like. Thank you for sharing your walk. Hugs 🤗
I don't know if it's that you speak to universal truths that impact all of us, or if God's timing has a way of bringing these prayer walks home to me at just the right times. In the last two weeks I have found myself publicly making the claim twice that relationship is my #1 priority: first with God, then others and myself. Last night I was convicted about making sure that claim was true and that I was living it and not just saying it. Through my writing I have had the chance to get to know a LOT of people. As my reader audience has grown it occurs to me that it's easier for someone to fall through the cracks and I might not notice I haven't heard from them in awhile. So last night I prayed that God would bring those people to mind so I could reach out to them. Needless to say, I had a very "busy" morning because as I touched base with the people God put on my heart, I had so many amazing conversations and opportunities to pray for people and let them know I cared. By 10:30am I still was not dressed and my daily to-do list had not a single thing checked off. But I knew I was doing what should have been at the top of the list all along. People. I have time. I have flexibility of schedule. I want to be available to people. My favorite saying is, "how can I help?". When I say it, I want to mean it and not be too busy to help if I can. Thanks for another thought provoking walk, Don - the park was beautiful, too. Glad you're not too busy to keep these weekly "appointments" with all of us - they are much appreciated!
Donny, I listened to the prayer walk coming home from choir practice just now. I had the speakers in the car up real loud so I could truly hear and take in every word that was spoken. It was dark of course, but I knew God was providing the light for me to listen. He does that. If we're all honest with ourselves, we've all been guilty of this at one time or another. I know I have, and I have to be honest right now, I've felt I've may have done it recently. This and many other things, God has really brought to my attention the last eight months or so. Do I want to sit around alone in this house and retreat, or do I want to be there for others, love them, listen to their needs, and just let them know someone cares for them. When I've truly opened my heart up to God, that's when God has provided such opportunities. It's not every day, but I try to remain open to it.
Working full time and remotely from home has it's disadvantages when it comes to being able to be available in the physical sense for someone, but there are many useful ways we can reach out and connect. The internet, social media, text, email, etc., are good ways, if we use them correctly and within the will of God to do so. To be honest, I much prefer a phone call or meet in person, but I understand that's not always possible and it depends on the circumstances of course. But what I'm trying to say is, I totally agree we each need to evaluate where we are, what are we doing, and serve GOD first and foremost with the gifts and talents he has provided each of us to serve others and their needs. There are many ways we can be there to encourage others. Use whatever means we have available within the circumstances or what that need may be.
I will say last week was a very challenging week for me as many of you know. Last Wednesday, I have to admit I pretty much hit rock bottom. I'm glad I did not listen to the Devil on the not reaching out for prayer from this community. I listened to the Lord, and he said to share. I can't tell you how humble and blessed I feel right now by the messages I've received and the love from this community. It has meant the world to me. Am I in a better place this week? The answer is yes and Praise the Lord I am. I will let God guide me in the next steps to take. I want to say thank you so much for the prayers. They were definitely felt, and I would not be feeling more like myself again if that didn't happen. If you have a prayer request, reach out and let us know. We're a family here, and we care about one another. I've been a recipient, and I cannot tell you how much they were felt and needed.
Donny, thank you again for challenging me to see if I'm too "busy" for others. I will take all this in and pray and hopefully let God open those opportunities but also help me to always be open and aware of those when they occur.
Take care and God bless each of you, and thank you again for all the prayers.
This walk brought to my mind a study that, initially, may seem to go in the opposite direction of what is being proposed in its message, but in the end they converge.
The reflection proposed in the study was based on just one line from 1 Timothy 4:16 when Paul gives advice to Timothy to “take care of yourself”, the first part of the phrase “be careful” is a warning to have the habit of pay constant attention to ourselves. The second part deals with what we are and what we do - it is not a narcissistic look at the self - but that taking care of yourself requires combining “gift with motivation”, there is no point in having motivation if you don't have aptitude, you waste energy and reap frustration.
I understand when you say "we must always be available to the other", but it is necessary to consider that not everyone has this gift, for some God gave the gift of being in the rear, see the example of Paul who was always ahead - Acts 17:14 – Paul was sent, but Silas and Timothy stayed in the rear.
“From yourself” teaches us that we need to seek in God “who we are and what we can do”, that is, what our gift is, which can be “stay” or “go”; “speak” or “listen”; "give" or "receive"...
In my view, the most important thing is not whether we are too busy, working too much or too idle, but being attentive to do God's will, letting God use us for what He wants to do with us.
Once again, Donny, the prayer walk today has challenged me to think about what does being “busy “ really mean in my life. Recently a very dear friend of mine was seriously ill and away from home, at first I told myself I’m busy can’t go to help her if needed. As I thought and prayed about it, my heart told me that I wasn’t too busy to take the trip to my friend if she needed my assistance. My friend has recovered and is doing well,still going to plan a trip to visit. The whole situation reminded me not to be “too busy” to cherish time together. Just today had another are you busy moment. My daughter called me very early this morning with question “ Are you busy today.” At first I thought yes I am, but then said not really ( knew my “busy” plans could be changed), my grandson was running a high fever causing him to be confused and incoherent. She needed me to come be with him for day, she had to work. I was busy today, taking him to urgent care, making him food, and just staying there in case he needed something. Oh, he’s doing better, fever is down but still not quite himself. As I get older, the saying“ Life happens when you’re busy making other plans.” is so true. We need to remember to take time to appreciate, enjoy each day we are given and to cherish moments with family and friends.
Blessings to you as you continue your journey!
But know I know that I need to stop and take time with her 🙏🙏 it's amazing how we just work or what ever to take time for someone but I think Alot of mine is when I work it keeps my mind off other things that are bothering me 🙏🙏 please keep praying for me and my son the good Lord knows all about our needs 🙏🙏 Thank you again for what you do cause it has made a difference in my life 🙏🙏🙏
Donny it's so funny how the past couple prayer walks you had an brought up things that I need to stop and look at my self 🙏🙏 I have a good friend and I helped her move but sense then I haven't been to see her and she keeps asking me when I am going back to see her and when she asks me the only thing I tell her is I have been working 🙏🙏
Love your Prayer Walks! So weird though ~ this was the main point from my blog entry about retirement this week: "I love this change of pace because I actually have more quality time to spend with people." From reading the comments God must be sending the same message out to a lot of us right now. I did spend the entire weekend with my older daughter -- who is a stressed teacher. We did a float tank and took several long walks out in Nature. It was good to have the time with her. xoxo
I'm not sure how to even comment on this. I have felt "busy", overwhelmed "busy" in the last few weeks. I have the cookie business and I currently am doing so many orders. I'm trying to pack and get ready to move. But I have also spent time with my friends. I will be leaving them soon on my new journey. Our little group is always there for each other. I like to think that I wouldn't be too busy for one of them, but I'm sure that I have been in the past. Its like a wake up call to pay closer attention to that. Thanks Donny.
With my chemo brain I forgot to post this as I started writing Thursday morning with my PC. Donny I have listen to the prayer walk a few times. I take heart that as long as I serve God, we are doing exactly as we are supposed to. Even if you lack work, he has assignments for you to accomplish.Someday soon, he will restore your dreams in a powerful way. God allows situations in your work and life that will make no sense to your dreams-aspirations that you thought had come from him. Nevertheless, God instructs you to carry on as if working for him, rather than dwelling on your circumstances. That is because it is through those situations that he becomes your central focus and you learn to cling to him above all other things- including your ambitions. I have serve to others pretty much my whole life since I can remember. At 10 years old our parents will bring us to the orphanage and help the nuns tend the gardens and to date still have no clue about garden and we help clean up the kitchen. Now I serve my community I volunteer few places and serve sweet also 🤣😂🤣I have to throw this in. Thank you for this week prayer walk can’t wait for next week .🙏
Can I ever relate to being overwhelmed. For the past two weeks I have been trying to learn a new job. So much information is coming at me and I am trying to get comfortable with the work environment, a very busy downtown commute, etc. I hope that things settle down soon so I can attend to things that I have been neglecting. It’s especially important that I learn how to prioritize things in my life and that what I do “adds value,” as you have put it. The verse that comes to mind is Ephesians 5:16 – “Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” It’s more important than ever for me to really apply this verse! Let me echo Cathey Cone – glad that you aren’t too busy to have these prayer walks!
Enjoyed your prayer walk today. It makes you stop and think. Am I too busy! Maybe or maybe not. It is up to me to decide if I am too busy!
I have a friend that would say she was busy and too busy to give me a ride to church. I’ve had others tell me they were too busy when really hanging out with me was the last thing on their mind. They were all professing Christians. I got to where I just didn’t ask. When the shoe was on the other foot I would always try to be there for them. Many, many years ago I was with a few people who said they were concerned about someone who needed prayer. We stayed up past 2am. I needed to work the next day and I indeed went to work. The others there stayed home and called in sick. I must say being retired helps me be there for others much better. I have an older friend I want to make myself more available to. You are much like her. When it comes to prayer she just prays right in the moment. This is why God is openly using you. Like you said Be Available for God.
Anyone who knows me any at all knows I’m a people pleaser, always wanted to make my parents proud,never got in trouble, in my daddy’s words the 1 of 7 kids that he knew he’d never have any trouble out of. But One of my greatest regrets in life was using the “busy” excuse to my mom when I was 19, because I was in a hurry to go on a date. The simplest thing she wanted me to stop by a store to pick up something for her. So when I finally agreed to go because I felt guilty she wouldn’t let me she just sent me on my date... I have carried that guilt in my heart and still do 18 years later.... currently crying while typing this... I realized that day in the very second my heart was burdened that you NEVER put off anything for your own selfish wants ... 🙏
Another great prayer walk, beautiful scenery. I work way to much but if I’m asked to help I will rearrange my schedule.
As usual your guided walk spoke to me as it was directed right at my heart. How many friends have just slipped away with the phase, maybe later, I’m busy or don’t have time right now? How many times have I been “busy” with a family member? I’m working on balance and setting new goals. Thank you for reminding me to put people first. Love ya❤️❤️
I walked this morning listening for the second time. (Hey, I must be a slow learner.) This walk hit home with me. I have been “busy” more than I like. Thank you for sharing your walk. Hugs 🤗