Praise

The word "Praise" is not near a big enough word! We can not express our thankfulness adequately to our Heavenly Father for answering our prayers.

Yesterday, as we sat in the doctors office waiting for test results there was a peaceful quiet. Both Doug and I sat in silent prayer as other patients came and went. The commotion of nurses, doctors, and staff hummed as they proceeded with daily tasks; Time moving forward as it most certainly does and will continue to do until the end of all time.

Dr. Morgan bounced into our room with a HUGE smile on his face and said,

"It's great news! This is what we always want to see! NO growth in cancer in a year!"

What sweet relief and excitement we both felt. Victory unlike I have ever known or felt. Today, we continue to praise GOD and thank HIM for what HE is doing in and through Doug's body.

We also thank GOD for each of you, for your love, encouragement, and prayers. We are truly blessed to have so many lifting us up in prayer. May GOD bless each of you.

By HIS mercy and in the grip of HIS grace,

Andrea Bowling Perdue

Prayer and Promise

Stumbling through this earthly life has prepared me to come here with a heart full of humility seeking prayer. Over the last few years, I've tried desperately to become "a better me!" Some days I've been successful and others I have not. Along the way, I've realized there are many facets to "becoming a better me." GOD has graciously given me a community to come along side in prayer, encouragement, and on many days to simply listen to the rambling words of a crazy lady. You, my friends are a very important part of my community and I love how GOD brought each of you into my life. You came here as readers, by the grace of GOD you stayed, and along the journey you became friends.

A few of the areas in my life that need renewal and recovery:

Spiritual: Abetter heart relationship with my Heavenly Father.
Physical: Health issues
Emotional: A need for total dependance on GOD every moment of every day.

Well, did I cover everything? Probably not!

Yesterday, I joined a group at New Life UMC. It's called, "Choose 2 Lose." I've made progress on my own, but after prayer I realized the accountability and encouragement of others could be a great asset.

Then the thoughts of  defeat and failure came:

"what if you fail"
"now you have to chart your progress or failure"
"you know you don't want to answer to other humans"
"you know you have health issues and they will not understand them"
"you know this is horrible timing"

You get the picture. The enemy just wants me to fall short of my goal.

NO WAY am I going to give in this easily. So, here I am today confessing to the entire world my desires as well as my fears. GOD knows my heart and HE has promised to be with me every step of the way. I may not be able to do this on my own, but I can do this and anything else my GOD calls me to do through HIS strength. 

By HIS mercy and in the grip of HIS grace,

Andrea Bowling Perdue

~An added prayer request for my best friend and husband, Doug. He will have a biopsy tomorrow.

Life Lessons from The Perdue Zoo

As we stumble through this life, we think we are training our dogs and children. Instead, GOD is molding and training us through them. Through every jerk of the leash and exuberant defiance of the child, we become more pliable. With each challenge comes opportunity to grow and learn. We rise to the occasion on most days, yet on other days we crumble falling head first into a heap of laundry or a large pile of dog poop. As we gather our last ounce of strength, we stand a little smelly, but taller, stronger, and even a bit wiser.

By HIS mercy and in the grip of HIS grace,

Andrea Bowling Perdue

Beginning 2013 With Purpose

As we begin 2013, let us focus our lives on making a positive difference in the lives of others. Lets be found walking away from negativity and embracing the love of Christ. Most of the time it is just that simple. The hard part is often keeping our mouth shut when walking away. It may not be hard for all of you, but it is for me.

~Praying GOD will use the craziness of our lives to make a positive difference in the lives of others!

~Keep loving, keep writing, keep being all God created you to be!

~Keep your purpose focused on HIS purpose! 

By HIS mercy and in the grip of HIS grace,

Andrea Bowling Perdue