“Death and life are in the power of the tongue, And those who love it and indulge it will eat its fruit and bear the consequences of their words.” (Pro 18:21 AMP)
The heart of the godly thinks carefully before speaking; the mouth of the wicked overflows with evil words. (Pro 15:28 NLT)
Words are powerful.
Words inspire love. Words fuel hate.
Words create. Words destroy.
Words encourage. Words discourage.
Words comfort. Words distress.
Words cover. Words root out.
Words build up. Words knock down.
Words raise up. Words throw down.
Words plant. Words reap.
Words direct. Words deter.
Words heal. Words harm.
Words are life. Words are death.
Words are powerful.
I enCOURAGE you to guard your words because “he who guards his mouth and his tongue guards himself from troubles.” (Pro 21:23 AMP) Our words have creative power, positively or negatively. Jesus said in Matthew 12:37, ““But I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment. For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.”
Friends: I have been working on this encouragement in NOTES on my phone since last Wednesday. It was a word from the Lord that came to me after I had heard some really bad news, again. Very early today, I was working on the NOTE and fell asleep. Evidently, I did not turn off the phone and when I went to paste the NOTE into a word document to finalize it, the letter “M,” was all that was left of it. I started to spiral and be in awe of what was lost. However, I stopped, breathed, and laughed. If God gave me the word before, He would return it to me.
Here is where I am going to get painfully honest. Satan has been trying to steal my voice since the end of July, but definitively since, August 15. I had some upper respiratory, crazy, unrelenting cough. It became difficult for me to breathe. A fan could not run in the room because it would choke me. I could not drink cool liquids. I went to the doctor three times. I would get better and then worse. It was a horrible roller coaster ride. I battled because I 100% believe the word of God in Isaiah 53:5 and 1 Peter 2:24 which states by His stripe you are and were healed.
I stand and believe for healing for my best friend ‘s daughter who has been losing her sight. I believe for my uncle and cousin who are both battling cancer. I believe for my husband who just had hip replacement surgery. God is faithful! I believed healing was for me, but the battle was long. It became hard to walk, breathe, or even speak. Once, my husband was out of town and I had to let my dog out. I struggled with every step. I remember reciting, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” It was my tearful battle cry to just take make it through.
I was tested for flu and for the first time, covid. NEGATIVE. It was a “virus” that stuck its tentacles in me. At times I felt my very life was trying to be choked out. I have not been this sick before. At one point my husband was diagnosed with pneumonia, but I never was.
On August 31st as I watched from the couch, I joined the prayer of Tim Sheets for a breakthrough! Something had to change, and it did. I began to get stronger and get my voice back. Thank God! All glory to His name. I am still fighting to recover what the enemy tried to suck out of me.
“But thanks [be] to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Corinthians 15:57 NKJV)
Now you know why I haven’t posted an encouragement in a while…but I AM BACK. This is why I find it laughable that he tried to discourage me THIS MORNING. Not today, Satan! Not Today!
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I AM ONLY AMAZED BY GOD
by Tammy Phillips September 22, 2025
“Be still and know that I [am] God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!” (Psalms 46:10 NKJV)
Throughout the word of God, we as followers of Christ are told, “DO NOT FEAR.”
“And the LORD, He [is] the One who goes before you. He will be with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed.“ (Deu 31:8 NKJV)
The Hebrew word for fear in the above verse is yārē’. It means to tremble; revere; be afraid; awe, to stand in awe of; be awed; to cause amazement. The only thing we are to be AMAZED by is God. The ONLY thing we are to be in AWE of is God.
Three evil things have happened since September 10, 2025:
1. Charlie Kirk was shot.
2. Pastor Felipe Ascencio was shot.
3. Scott and Kathryn Powers were shot by their son Michael who then killed himself in my own town. (Mr. Powers brother attends our church.)
I was sitting in a drive through line when I heard about the Powers. As I rehearsed these death’s, for a few seconds, I was temporarily in awe of the evil. Here are the words God gave me in the drive-thru and throughout the next day: (Using the word awe and amazed synonymously.)
Do not be amazed by the evil. Do not exalt it. Do not be amazed by the pressure. Do not exalt it Do not be amazed by the trifle/obstacle. Do not exalt it. Do not be amazed by lack or fortune. Do not exalt it. Do not be in awe of the sickness of disease. Do not exalt it. Do not be in awe of death. Do not exalt it. Only be in awe of ME. Exalt Me
“Exalt the LORD our God, And worship at His footstool–He [is] holy.” (Psa 99:5 NKJV)
“Be exalted, O God, above the heavens, And Your glory above all the earth…” (Psa 108:5 NKJV)
“Therefore, God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name, which is above every name, 10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, 11 and [that] every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ [is] Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” (Phl 2:9-11 NKJV)
Jesus is name above every name! His name is above every evil, pressure, trifle, obstacle, lack, concern, worry, fear, sickness, disease, and even death. He conquered death, too.
Remember, as you walk through life by faith—You are an Overcomer in Christ Jesus. Exalt Him alone. Do not give place to the Devil.
I enCOURAGE you to remain standing, heart fixed, immovable! Jesus wins every time.
I am clothed with strength and dignity, and I laugh without fear of the future. (Pro. 31:25)
“Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” (John 14:27 NKJV)
Holy Spirit often grabs my attention in the bathroom, whether I am showering, putting on makeup or cleaning. It is a place where I suppose my mind is quieter and I can hear Him crystal clear. Usually in our “restroom meetings” Holy Spirit has something very important to deposit into my thick skull.
Recently, my mother sent an email which baffled me. My reply to her was, “Mom, I am confused. I know the word of God and have studied it for a long time, too. I DO NOT know everything, BUT what you just told me is like telling me the sky is blue and the University of Georgia color are red and black. I know Jesus is coming back and expect Him very soon. I have for looked for Him for years, just like the disciples did. Just because He has not appeared yet doesn’t mean I am not looking for Him to walk through heaven’s door anytime.”
Later the same morning, I was in a hotel in Montgomery, Alabama, sitting on the edge of the tub waiting for the water to warm, still contemplating Mom’s words. “Why did she send me that? I thought, “I KNOW it, but how can we as Christians warn others?”
DUH? Light bulb goes on. We all have a voice, and we need to use it! This blog is one way I share mine. I realized my mother had just given me the core for an encouragement, this encourgement.
I know mom sent the email because of the parade of recent earthquakes, including the 8.8 magnitude quake in Russia.
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Here is what she wrote …
Did you know according to scripture, there was an earthquake when Jesus died and will be another just before His appearing?
Then, behold, the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom; and the earth quaked, and the rocks were split, and the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints who had fallen asleep were raised; and coming out of the graves after His resurrection, they went into the holy city and appeared to many. [Mat 27:51-53 NKJV]
Next…While Jesus was sitting on the Mount of Olives, the disciples approached him privately and said, “Tell us, when will these things happen? And what is the sign of your coming and of the end of the age?” (Mat 24:3 CSB)
Jesus replied…“For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places. 8 “All these [are] the beginning of sorrows (birth pains). [Mat 24:7-8 NKJV]
For you yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night. 3 For when they say, “Peace and safety!” then sudden destruction comes upon them, as labor pains upon a pregnant woman. And they shall not escape. [1Th 5:2-3 NKJV]
Then the seventh angel poured out his bowl into the air, and a loud voice came out of the temple of heaven, from the throne, saying, “It is done!” 18 And there were noises and thunderings and lightnings; and there was a great earthquake, such a mighty and great earthquake as had not occurred since men were on the earth. [Rev 16:17-18 NKJV]
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I enCOURAGE you to prepare your heart to meet Jesus. None of us know when we will be called home to heaven. Heed the warnings in His word! Earthquakes are just ONE sign of His soon and coming return. He gives us many more…
“BUT KNOW THIS: Hard times will come in the last days. 2 For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, proud, demeaning, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy, 3 unloving, irreconcilable, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, without love for what is good, 4 traitors, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, 5 holding to the form of godliness but denying its power. Avoid these people.” (2Ti 3:1-5 CSB)
Sound familiar? I do not want to miss the call when Jesus comes to snatch His Bride away. If you do not know His voice, will you answer?
“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father in heaven. 22 “On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, didn’t we prophesy in your name, drive out demons in your name, and do many miracles in your name? ‘ 23 “Then I will announce to them, ‘I never knew you. Depart from me, you lawbreakers! ‘ (Mat 7:21-23 CSB)
There will come a time when all men hear one of two things from Jesus that will determine their eternal destiny, “Well done good and faithful servant or depart from Me. I never knew you.” Are you ready?
After about two hours of sleep, my alarm shook me at 4 AM. I paused and seriously considered whether to stay in bed or whether to get up and go. Everything in my body yelled, “Stay.” Everything in my heart and soul said, “Get up and go!”
Within a few short minutes, my car was packed and I pulled out of our garage. I called Jesus and said, “This is your trip. I’m just along for the ride.” This was my plea for Him to strengthen and protect me on the journey!
As Christians, isn’t that the way we should get out of bed and start EVERY day? I mean, seriously, think about it. Jesus said, “Follow Me,” which means come on this journey with Me. If we’re truly following Him, shouldn’t our every day begin with surrender to Him and His way?
There are times in our lives where we want to do something, but also do not. I wanted to go to my Uncle Sherrill‘s 80th birthday party. I would not have given the trip a second thought if I was going to his funeral instead. Right? My 60-year-old creeky body did not want to make the five hour journey and the time zone change. Jesus said, “Follow me.”
So l picked up my cross, denied myself, and hit the road. I queued up my favorite new worship artist, turned up the praise, and somewhere along the way, my exhaustion faded. Worship carried me south to the celebration.
I enCOURAGE you to go! But first, surrender your way to the Lord. Every day is a trip, right? Believe you me, the ride will be much better with Him.
I usually write what the Lord is sharing to my heart here. This message is so important! I wanted to share with you… (following writing is a MUST HERE link to a sermon of the same title! I pray you will listen and allow God to answer some questions you may have.)
No Explanation, Just An Invitation from Jentzen Franklin, May 5, 2025
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11
You may be facing the trial of your life right now. Your family could be enduring something indescribable. Your health may be failing, your finances may be in crisis, or perhaps you have a son or daughter trapped in addiction. You might not understand why this is happening to you.
A similar scenario happened in John 21. Jesus tells Peter that one day, someone will lead him to a place he does not want to go, signifying the kind of death Peter would face for following Him. In response, Peter turns and looks at John, asking Jesus, “Lord, what about him?” Jesus replies, “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me.”
We become discontent and distrustful when we begin to compare our lives to those of others.
Your neighbor’s path may seem easier while yours feels steep and painful. But God has a plan for your life and a different plan for theirs. If you’ve surrendered your life to Christ, your journey, no matter how difficult, will glorify God. That’s why you must choose to keep following Jesus. Take your eyes off the blessings of others, or you may miss God’s will for your own life. Jesus was essentially telling Peter: “It’s not your concern how someone else’s story unfolds. Just follow me.”
The Apostle Paul warns against the trap of comparison: “When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are not wise.” (2 Corinthians 10:12). You may wonder, “Why did they get a father when I didn’t?” “Why did I get this illness and they didn’t?” “Why did tragedy strike my family?” God does not cause sickness or death. In fact, He sent His Son so that one day, everyone who belongs to Him will be whole, healed, and live forever. But until that day, we will face the trials of living in a fallen world. Even the most faithful men and women in the Bible endured hardships beyond what we can imagine. There is a powerful verse that gives us hope in the dark times. It was uttered by a man who lost everything in this life. He lost his children, the respect of his friends, his health, and his wealth. But while he sat in the ashes of his suffering, Job said, “Though He slay me, yet will I trust Him.” Job 13:15
“Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know.” (Jer 33:3 NKJV)
What is the first thing we typically do when we face a problem or a situation we do not know how to handle? Isn’t the first call normally to our spouse, best friend, parent, mentor, or business partner? There is absolutely nothing wrong with consulting trusted voices. However, as Christians we know who has ALL the answers.
Shouldn’t our first call be to God?
Our earthly calls can go unanswered. Even if answered, the counsel given, may not be the BEST. Our Creator, Lord and Savior, simple says, “Call me. I will answer.” Not only that! He says, “I will show you what you do not know, great and mighty things!” If God promises to show us the big things we don’t know, don’t you think He will show us the little things we don’t know, too?
I hear the questions we all ask, and His response.
What’s going on in this crazy world? Call Me, first. -Not the news.
My baby is sick or has been exposed to sickness. Call Me, first.-Not you’re your Mama.
Should we buy this house? Call Me, first. -Not your best friend.
Why is the United States friends with Israel? Call Me, first. -Not Facebook, X, nor Instagram
What is my purpose in life? Call Me, first. -Not everyone else.
What should I do? Call Me, first.
Our questions are infinite, but guess what, so are His answers. He knows all. He understands all. He is the Way for every direction. He is the Truth for every doubt. He is the Life for every physical, mental, and spiritual need.
And He promises to answer.
Three years ago, I asked God a hard question. He answered. I did not like the answer, but that is not His promise. He just promises to answer. Early THIS morning, I was listening to a preacher. God used him to further answer my difficult question from three years ago.
Sad thing, the answer came straight from His word. It was there all along, written in black and white. If I had sought Him a little bit harder and a little bit longer, He would have shown me then.
“If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me.” (Jer 29:13 NLT)
“Seek the LORD and his strength, seek his face continually.” (1Ch 16:11 KJV)
“But first and most importantly seek (aim at, strive after) His kingdom and His righteousness [His way of doing and being right–the attitude and character of God], and all these things will be given to you also. (Mat 6:33 AMP)
Call Him. Look for Him. Seek Him. Have faith in Him because “without faith [it is] impossible to please [Him], for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and [that] He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. (Heb 11:6 NKJV)
Wait for Him. He will answer and reward the Callers and the Seekers. (That’s you and I if we are obedient to call and seek Him!)
I enCOURAGE you: Next time you do not know what to do or what is going on, reach out to our Heavenly Father. He has every answer.
The LORD has done great things for us, [And] we are glad. Psalms 126:3 (NKJV)
Last Friday, I officially stepped into my 60s!
How can I even begin to describe the days leading up to, and the wonder that unfolded over, my birthday weekend? It felt like a beautifully crafted film, complete with a flawless script. While I played a small role in the unfolding story, it was my incredible husband, precious family, and dear friends who produced and directed Lala’s 60th: The Birthday of Extravagant Love. It was a masterpiece of love, a multitude of surprises, and unforgettable moments.
It all began on April 5th with a celebratory girls trip to Santa Fe, New Mexico with my lifelong best friends who welcome the same milestone in 2025. We arrived to a snowy, thirty-degree, Santa Fe. Four days later, we departed to a temp that was forty-three degrees higher.
We feasted, sipped, wondered, prayed, and laughed loudly. We explored churches, museums, and browsed shops from downtown to Canyon Road. We cherished every moment. At Gusterman Silversmiths, I discovered a dazzling 18kt gold, six carat emerald, pearl pendant that sparkled with impossible allure and a whopping $17,000 dollar price tag! I teased and sent a pic to my husband and friend who had recommended the jeweler, “I found my birthday gift!” I decided on a more realistic silver and gold dotted heart pendant. it was an incredible way to kick off our milestone year.
My actual birthday month of May kicked off with a “luxury-experience” dinner at Eddie V’s in Nashville with good friends on the eve of the APSU Candlelight Ball. We have frequented this restaurant and always enjoyed, however, this time, I think Eddie V’s mistook us for another party. We were treated like royalty at a Michelin-starred eatery. We were seated at the best table overlooking Broadway. Our waiter attended to us like we were the only souls in the room. The chef created a perfect amuse-bouche for our table, not found on any menu. Our Captain, the true maestro of the evening, orchestrated every detail with grace. He also surprised us with extra sides, personally chose and gifted the table with a variety of desserts. We left that evening stunned. It was evening that I have not experienced anywhere else in the world.
The morning after the ball, we flew south to Sawgrass on shores of Ponte Vedra Beach. The weather was near perfect, the sands were quiet and nearly deserted. It felt like our own private paradise.
We spent our days digging on the beach, laughing, and sharing meals with my nephew, niece-in-love, and our two high spirited great-nephews. Everywhere we dined, I proclaimed, “It’s my birthday” with a wink and a smile. (P.S. This is not how I usually operate nor celebrate.)
We loved our time away, but happily arrived home to a Mother’s Day blessing. Our granddaughter was dedicated to the Lord. My youngest son, thoughtful as ever, planned a delectable brunch for his wife and me. My eldest and his sweet wife sent a precious pic of our grandkids. It was a capture of pure joy in a frame. They also gifted me my next salon visit.
Just three days later, I was fortunate to visit my eldest son, daughter-in-love, and GRANDson for a few days of laughter, love, and play before out next grand’s arrival.
I share these memories to recount how richly blessed and full of celebration my birthday month was. And, to lay the groundwork for all that was yet to unfold.
Here is where the plot began to twist and turn. Kris concocted a tale about a birthday dinner in Nashville on Friday, May 30th. But first, he said, we had to make a brief stop to celebrate a friend who shares my day. Then came the sudden shift: “Oops,” he said, “Plans changed—we are actually going Saturday.”
Many little things did not quite align. I began to suspect that something was up, but I had no idea the depths of his deceptive plan.
I questioned why Mom and Lennie decided to “drop by” on their way to Boston to celebrate my birthday. This meant an extra leg to their journey. We welcomed their arrival and picked them up on Wednesday prior to my day. We shared a wonderful dinner at one of my favorite Nashville spots. Thursday we just relaxed.
Friday morning came. It was my actual birthday! Kris rose early and decorated my office and coffee bar with sweet little birthday signs. While he went to work, we went out for a celebratory breakfast and a little shopping.
When we arrived home, I was surprised with a magnificent bouquet of my favorite-colored flowers from my dad and Linda. It was a huge floral hug. Texts, calls and Facebook well wishes overwhelmingly flowed in throughout the day. My heart was truly overwhelmed with gratitude.
However, something was off. I did not receive ONE card nor gift in the mail. This was highly unusual.
One of my best friends laughingly explained from her mountain cabin that she had mailed my gift to herself. (I thought there must not be a surprise party because Pam would be here.) My other bestie, typically the earliest to send something, had gone silent. She had even mentioned bringing back something special for me from Africa. And my third bestie, ever thoughtful, simply suggested we meet for lunch the following week…somewhere halfway between Knoxville and Cookeville.
OK…I smiled. I nodded. But quietly, I thought… how very strange. Something was up. I just could not figure it out.
Since were celebrating on Saturday, I chose a casual Mexican meal Friday night. While at dinner, our youngest called and invited us over so that my mom and Lennie could see their home.
SURPRISE #1: Parker, Caroline and Harper greeted us at the door with a big, beautiful chocolate and peanut butter cake. Brayden, Mary Claire, and Jack were Facetiming. All were singing, “Happy Birthday!” For a moment, I thought my Memphis family was going to pop out from hiding, but that did not happen.
Kris led me to the couch with mischief was in his eyes. He explained to me a crazy story of how Brayden’s family was coming to meet us on Saturday. However, MC was so late into her pregnancy, they had decided not to make the trip.
Then he instructed, “Close your eyes and hold out my hands.” I did. “You will need to wear this where we’re going tomorrow,” he added, placing something carefully into my palms.
SURPRISE #2. I opened my eyes—and gasped.
Resting in my hands was what I thought was the 17,000-dollar emerald pendant I had found in New Mexico. SHOCKED and DISMAYED was an understatement!!! I think I exclaimed, “Y’all have LOST YOUR MINDS!!!”
Plot twist, the Santa Fe jeweler refused to negotiate. So, in true cinematic fashion, my husband and mother had conspired to have a replica made.
WHEW and WOW!
What a surprise! They got me! It was still a very extraordinary and wildly extravagant gift. I was undone. No words. (Heartfelt thanks to our “family jeweler, “ Elliot Herzlich who brought the vision to life in record time.)
Late Friday night, my heart was full, and my thoughts were swirling. I expressed my deep gratitude. I told Kris how I had imagined “this and that” might happen—and how thankful I was that none of it had. No big party, no grand spectacle.
I told him we DID NOT have to go to Nashville for dinner. We could stay right here in Clarksville. He had done more than enough—and then some.
But then Saturday arrived.
Since Nashville was cancelled, I chose a quiet spot for dinner. Simple. Familiar. Easy. However, as the day unfolded, Kris suggested a change of plans. Parker and Caroline, he said, had eaten at my chosen locale for lunch. WHAT? Really? That seemed odd.
He suggested Rafferty’s which closer to where we supposedly needed to stop by a friend’s birthday gathering before dinner. I did not like that idea and he succumbed to my original choice. I wanted to leave Mom and Lennie at home and swing back for them afterward, just to simplify the evening.
Kris was not budging. He said, “That’s crazy. We’re all going together.”
Off we went to “the other party.” I strongly suggested that Mom and Lennie should stay downstairs. It was not our party and I thought it rude for them to come up. Kris oddly said, “They can come up, use restroom and stay outside.”
I was irritated and thought, “WHATEVER!”
We stepped in the elevator, and I tried to calm myself. Shortly, the doors glided open to reveal…
SURPRISE #3: All my children and grandkids were waiting with big, sneaky smiles. I was dumbfounded and elated. THE BEST GIFT! My heart was full!
My sister-in-law, Kim, was filming in the corner. WHAT? The plot thickened. My husband, Mr. Executive Director had lied, repeatedly. He led me toward a closed door where for a moment I expected only to see the little circle of our immediate family waiting.
SURPRISE #4: The door opened to a large room FULL of smiling family and friends singing, “Happy Birthday.” I froze in amazement, completely undone and overwhelmed. The only words I could utter were “liars, liars, liars.” A welcome sign greeted me, as well as a table of cards, gifts and individually wrapped cookies. My closest friends engulfed me at the front of the long room. I was sashed, crowned, given a new Stanley, full of water and lime, my signature drink.
I was in absolute shock! Shock! SHOCK!
I moved through the room in a daze– hugging and trying to greet everyone all at once. “What in the world?” It seemed like a thousand hearts of friend and family swallowed me. The love I felt was palpable. I had NO WORDS.
Many asked if I was mad at Kris because of my stunned reaction. NO. I was simply suspended in a surreal place in time. (Even now, a week later I am still processing. I am floating between unbelief and deepest gratitude.)
The tables lit up with everyone’s smiles and were adorned with the most beautiful, bountiful bouquets of my favorite flowers. Loved ones filled every corner! A buffet of deliciousness awaited the guests. And then as I turned the corner at the far end of the hall, still making my way from each loving face to the next…
SURPRISE #5: A PHOTO BOOTH! Kris had thought of everything and more. It was too much!!! When I thought the afternoon had offered all it could…
SURPRISE#6: A carefully curated playlist of all my favorite songs, as well as photos from most of my life filled the room. Memories of my 60 years flooded the small space between my two ears. My brain was near explosion. Then…
SURPRISE #7: My sons and husband stood before me. They delivered their gentle, kind, loving tributes. Sentiments that will stay with me for a lifetime. They spoke straight from their hearts into mine. I will never forget.
SURPRISE #8: In his speech, Kris shared how he, my closest friends and my mother-in-love joined forces to gather birthday card greetings from near and far of those who could not attend the party.
SURPRISE#9: Kris also told me that In lieu of gifts, he had asked our guests to donate to Now I lay Me Down To Sleep in memory of Eleanor Grace Crockett, my great niece, my birthday twin in heaven. What a precious gift honoring life, love, and loss, so delicately woven into the celebration
SURPRISE#10: The celebration did not end. Our immediate family and inner circle of friends gathered again at Parker and Caroline’s for an after party where we ate more birthday cake and kept laughing.
SURPRISE #11: After the surprise party on Sunday, an organic, unplanned, unscripted, very pleasant breakfast unfolded on our deck, with my besties before they left town.
SURPRISE #12: And finally…
EVERYTHING! EVERY DETAIL! Every card, every smile, every flower, every guest. Every donation. Every thoughtful gift. Every surprise. Every single act of love. Everything!
It was ALL the greatest gift! It was beautiful and unforgettable. I have never felt so celebrated, cherished, and loved. THANK YOU BIG TO ALL who had a part in Lala’s 60th: The Birthday of Extravagant Love!
I know! This post seems so self-indulgent, but it was so important for me to share with you the great love of my husband, family, and friends. I began the month feeling like a celebrity and ended the month feeling like a SUPER STAR. More importantly, I have never felt so celebrated, cherished, and loved in my entire life. I am finally moving from shock and being completely overwhelmed to the place of processing it all. The tears are flowing. Again, I really cannot thank my husband enough and ALL who played a part in Lala’s 60th: The Birthday of Extravagant Love
Final thoughts, my heart is still in overflow mode! You know what is just unfathomable to me? God ordained every detail of what I have written. It was in written in my book of life before I was ever born. God loves ME and YOU that much, and more than all these acts of love. He loves so BIG it is just hard to grasp. That is what all this celebration has showed me. He loves us all more and He is always up for a celebration made. Thought…Every day in heaven is someone’s birthday and know no one can throw a party like God. If you don’t know Jesus and your Lord and Savior, I would be happy to introduce you to LOVE because God is Love.
RUN THE CREDITS:
Executive Director: Storyteller, Writer and Party Planner Extraordinaire : Kris Phillips
Production Company and Film Financier: Kris Phillips and Family, Inc.
Executive Producer: Kris Phillips
Associate Producers : Kris Phillips, Brayden Phillips, Mary Claire Phillips, Parker Phillips, Caroline Phillips, Jack, Harper, Henry, Marie Poon, Bobbe Gillis, Kristi Stephens, Gina Suiter, and Pam Verma
Production Design: Kris Phillips
Lead Cast: Kris Phillips, family, and the greatest friends
Music Composers: Kris Phillips, Bobbe Gillis, and Pam Verma
Playlist Producer: Parker Phillips
Floral Designer: Mary Claire Phillips
Floral Designer: Assistant: Jack Phillips
Cookie Designer: Mary Claire Phillips
Floral and Cookie Design Support: Brayden Phillips
Pre and Post Cast Party: Parker, Caroline, and Harper Phillips
Director of Photography: Kris Phillips and Kim Rye
Assistant Photographers: Marie Poon and Carol Clark
I misplaced my crossbody wallet for over 24 hours. I prayed and asked for help. Help came in the form of a vision. I know that sounds a little wild, but in that in-between state of sleep and wakefulness, I saw my bag Sitting on a shelf, its thin strap dangling.
I had already searched the house, the garage, two refrigerators, and the pantries—inside and out. I had looked on every shelf and nothing. I was about to give up and leave the house with just my phone when I glanced across the garage. There it was a rarely used shelf. I saw my bag.
When I told my husband about my bag, he said, “We are all about the win.” I replied, “A victory does not have to be a win, but a win is a double victory.”
Let that sink in!
“Thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1Co 15:57 NKJV)
But God…“Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us. (Eph 3:20 NKJV)
God doesn’t just give us victory—He gives us exceedingly abundantly. That’s the double. That’s the win.
I don’t know if there was an ever a fiercer competitor than Jesus Christ himself. He was and is the Ultimate Winner
He took on a lost bag and He won. He took on temptation and won. He took on sickness and won. He took on sorrow and grief and He won. He took on the government and won. He took on offense and won. He took on unrighteousness and won. He took on sin and won. He took on the cross and won. He took on death and won!
Who among us can say that we lived an entire lifetime, undefeated? The only player I know that can make this claim is the Greatest of All Time, THE COMPETITOR, Jesus Christ.
I enCOURAGE your with the words of Paul, “If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31 NKJV) Join the winning team! Choose Jesus. He remains undefeated.
I did not want to rise early yesterday! If I hadn’t listened to the still small voice, “Just look out the window.” I would have missed a glorious sun rise!
I will hurry, without delay, to obey your commands.(Psalm 119:60 NLT)
In our fast-paced world, we’re often encouraged to pause and weigh every option before taking action. I believe discernment is wise, BUT in one area delay can be disobedience. It is in our response to God’s asks.
What is Immediate Obedience? Immediate obedience means responding to God’s instructions the moment He speaks without hesitation, excuses, or delay. It is not partial or delayed compliance. It’s a “yes” that runs with speed and trust.
Think about Abraham. When God told him to offer Isaac: “Early the next morning Abraham got up and loaded his donkey…” (Genesis 22:3 NIV) There was no record of questioning, debating, or stalling. He just obeyed…immediately.
Delayed obedience is still disobedience. We may comfort ourselves with the thought, “I will obey… later.” Delayed obedience can be a form of rebellion. My will might be to do it when. “I will,” not when God wills.
Didn’t you love it when you asked your kids to do something, and they stopped and did it? You did not have to ask multiple times—that’s immediate obedience. How often did that happen? How often are we that quick to obey God?
Immediate obedience matters because it is the very least we can do for God Who gave up His only son Jesus for us.
Immediate obedience honors God’s authority in our lives. When we obey immediately, we show that God’s voice is supreme in our lives. Like Peter, who dropped his nets instantly when Jesus called. “Immediately they left their nets and followed Him.” (Matthew 4:20 CSB)
Immediate obedience positions us for blessing. Obedience unlocks divine favor and timing. Delayed obedience may cause us to miss a perfectly divine appointment with God.
Immediate obedience builds spiritual sensitivity to Holy Spirit’s leading. The more we respond quickly, the more attuned we become to His voice. The more we delay, the more dull we become.
How do we become “Immediately Obedient” people?
• Stay in God’s word. Scripture trains our hearts to recognize and respond to His will. “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105 AMP)
• Pray for a soft heart. Ask God to make you quick to obey with no delay. “Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion.” (Hebrews 3:15 CSB)
• Listen to the still quiet voice who guides your heart. Obedience in the small things trains us for the big assignments.
• Resolutely decide to be obedient.
IO.U.= Immediate obedience to You. It is the very least we can do for God. He breathed life into us and gave up the life of His only son for our salvation. It is not because we are forced, but because we love Him. “If you love me, you will keep my commands.” John 14:15 CSB)
I enCOURAGE you to respond like Isaiah: “Here am I. Send me!” (Isaiah 6:8 (NIV) No delay. No debate. Just obedience.
“Do everything without murmuring or questioning [the providence of God]…” (Philippians 2:14 AMP)
(PS…This last verse has only come up about 4 times in the last two days. Think God is trying to teach me a lesson…again? Apply duck tape to mouth!
I was impatiently sitting in a waiting room last week and was a little inspired, if you can believe it.
Wait on the LORD; Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the LORD! (Psa 27:14 NKJV)
“I love to wait,” said no one, ever! Waiting is NEVER easy. Waiting rooms are usually uncomfortable and unattractive spaces. I have never wanted to spend any extended period of time in the waiting area. How about you ?
Have you ever felt like you’re stuck in God’s waiting room? Whether it’s a doctor’s office, an unanswered prayer, or a promise that feels delayed, we often find ourselves in the uncomfortable in-between—what I like to call “the waiting room.” It’s the space between where we are and where we long to be. We are praying, hoping, asking—and yet the doors remain closed. The wait can feel endless.
What if the waiting room is not just a place of delay? What if it’s a place of preparation?
But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew [their] strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; [and] they shall walk, and not faint. (Isa 40:31 KJV)
This verse reminds us that waiting on God isn’t passive. It is not about twiddling our thumbs until something happens. It is active. It is about trusting. Waiting is an act of faith, where we believe that God’s timing is better than our own.
Waiting builds endurance. Waiting builds trust. Waiting allows space for transformation.
Abraham waited for a promised son. Joseph waited in a prison cell. David waited in the fields to become king. Jesus waited thirty years before stepping into His ministry. Each of these men went through a “waiting room,” and each time, God was doing something deeper than what was visible.
Are you sitting in your own waiting room? Are you waiting for healing, for a plan, for clarity, for breakthrough? Be encouraged. God is in the middle of the silence with you. He is preparing you for something greater.
The LORD [is] good unto them that wait for him, to the soul [that] seeks him. [It is] good that [a man] should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the LORD. (Lam 3:25-26 KJV))
I enCOURAGE YOU to be heart fixed. Let the waiting room become your worship room. Let it be where your faith deepens, your hope is pollinated, and your heart becomes aligned with His. Know that in the waiting, He is working!
Complete in Him 