Celebration – Phoebe Leggett
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He is Risen

It’s not about reindeer Santa
Or pesky little elves
It’s not about hanging tinsel
Or lights in twinkling twelve’s.

It’s not about toys and travel,
Or Grandma’s Turkey pie.
It’s not about fun and laughter—
Stars twinkling in your eye.

It’s not about gifts and treasure
But animals in the stall
With shepherds, angels, Wise Men
And others come to call.

For with all celebrations,
There’s joy, laughter, fun.
But let us not forget
The reason for the Son.

It’s Jesus, who was born
One starry winter’s night
With angels song of welcome
Before they took their flight

A Holy celebration
Resurrected every year
That brings us all together
As angels hover near.

He is that manger baby
He is that childhood nod
He is our celebration
He is the son of God.

Phoebe Leggett is a full-time free-lance writer. In 2007 she was presented two awards for her work at the Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writer’s Conference in Ridgecrest, North Carolina. She makes her home in Greenville, South Carolina with husband Dana and three felines, and to be close to her children and granddaughter.

In 2004 she faced the darkest day of her life when she learned her youngest son was dead. The only way she survived her trauma was with God by her side. Her first non-fiction is titled It’s My Time To Grieve.

As poet and writer, her articles, stories, and poetry have been published in adult and children’s Christian literature as well as online through www.christiandevotions.us. She serves as Assistant Editor for www.DevoKids.com. And, she contributes poetry bi-monthly to Critter Magazine.Her work has been published in Slate & Style, Shemom, Harold and Banner Press in Primary Pal: Pacific Press Publishing Association in Our Little Friend, MS Focus and MS Connection Magazines, Who’s DANN?—a monthly magazine, Gospel Publishing House in LIVE; a weekly journal; the Pentecostal Evangel—an Assemblies of God publication, Heartland Boating, and the Upper Room magazine. Several of her poems have been read on air at WORD Radio in Greenville, South Carolina. Visit her online at www.phoebe-leggett.com

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Be Prepared – Phoebe Leggett
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Desperation

From that time on Jesus began to preach, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.”  Matthew 4:17 NIV

The desperation of life can baffle the mind and send fear in tremors of uncertainty throughout the body. Most mornings I enjoy a blast of news and a soothing song to begin my day. But I’m on the alert as overwhelming reports of biblically foretold events, although reported in monotone, have caught my attention. Excitement and anxiety seem to clash as I take note of rapidly changing events around the world. For most, the reality of truth fails to inject concern or dread as life continues without a second glance into the future.

The question remains — are we ready for what is ahead? As Christians, a departure into a heavenly future may be near, but for non-believers the outlook can be staggering. And if we’re not prepared for what is ahead, now is the time to get our lives in order.

On the flip side, extreme urgency rules our lives. People rush headlong into their own pleasures, but without purpose. While searching for God they reject the very one who can save them from themselves. Time continues to pass at an exceptional speed as the questions on our minds are often verbalized—”Where did all the time go?”

Jesus preached, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.” He knew the truth of the future would become clear. He longed for each of us to know Him and to share eternity with Him upon His return.

Prepare for what is ahead by studying what the Bible has to say about the future. Trust God, the master of the universe, for salvation. And then, stand firm in God’s word, the word that has prevailed throughout generations of time. Then look up. The redemption of the saints is drawing nigh. Are you ready?

Behold, I come like a thief. Blessed is he who stays awake… Revelation 16:15 NIV

Phoebe Leggett is a full-time freelance writer. In 2007 she was presented two awards for her work at the Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writers Conference in Ridgecrest, North Carolina. She makes her home in Greenville, South Carolina with husband Dana and three felines, and to be close to her children and granddaughter.

In 2004 she faced the darkest day of her life when she learned her youngest son was dead. The only way she survived her trauma was with God by her side. Her first nonfiction is titled It’s My Time To Grieve.

As poet and writer, her articles, stories, and poetry have been published in adult and children’s Christian literature as well as online through www.christiandevotions.us. She serves as Assistant Editor for www.DevoKids.com and she contributes poetry bi-monthly to Critter Magazine. Her work has been published in Slate & Style, Shemom, Harold and Banner Press in Primary Pal: Pacific Press Publishing Association, in Our Little Friend, MS Focus and MS Connection Magazines, Who’s DANN?—a monthly magazine, Gospel Publishing House in LIVE; a weekly journal; the Pentecostal Evangel—an Assemblies of God publication, Heartland Boating, and the Upper Room magazine. Several of her poems have been read on air at WORD Radio in Greenville, South Carolina. Visit her online at www.phoebe-leggett.com.

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Beggars in the Twenty-first Century – Phoebe Leggett
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There will always be poor people in the land. Deuteronomy 15: 11 NIV

They’ve been here all along. From the days of old to the twenty-first century, the poor remain among us. In Bible days, the destitute could be found on the streets and by the city gate, hands extended as they begged for a handout. Beggars of today aren’t gathered in the street pleading for alms as in Bible days, but you will find them at road intersections, on city streets, or at entrance ramps to major highways expressing their situations on torn pieces of cardboard. Roughly scrawled words such as Will Work for Food or Out of Work depict desperate words for desperate times.

The word beggar means someone who begs for money or food from strangers, or a very poor person.

Other disadvantaged people in today’s society, although sometimes visual, are often ignored, or may go unnoticed. And because of our busyness, it’s easy to be insensitive to the needs of others. But Jesus desires consideration and generosity toward those who are deprived. Donating alms (money) to the desperate, can also provide an amazing opportunity to address their starving spirit. Compassion through action from you will illustrate the love of Christ to them.

The common denominator in all this is found in 2 Samuel. May the Lord now show you kindness and faithfulness, and I too will show you the same favor because you have done this.

My desire is to be sensitive and kindhearted to those who are truly in need. If that means stepping out of my comfort zone to help someone, then it’s worth the effort to do so. For when I’m kind to others, God will be pleased with me.

Won’t you step out too?

Phoebe Leggett is the recipient of two poetry awards from Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writer’s Conference in 2007. Her poems, articles, and short stories have appeared in Slate & Style, Shemom, MS Focus, Who’s DANN, MS Connection, Pacific Press, and Gospel Publishing House. Several of her poems have been read on air at WORD Radio. Her current project is developing a book on grief. She is married with three grown children, (one of whom was killed in 2004), two felines, and one grandchild. Her new website is under construction and will be available at a later date.

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True Wisdom – Phoebe Leggett
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Jesus replied, ‘If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him.’ John 14:23 NIV

My family was poor. I didn’t have the chance to go to college. I was told not to set goals because they would be unreachable. In ignorance, I believed that untruth. Important elements from my childhood were missing — guidance for achievement, and praise for accomplishment.

But I did learn about God. And that relationship is what has carried me through the twists, turns, and heartaches life has thrown my way.

The wisdom of this world could never have taught me what I learned at the foot of the cross. And when I realize that Jesus will be with me when I die, living for him is worth more than all the wisdom this world has to offer.

I’m thankful I learned early-on what was truly important in life–to make room in my heart for Jesus. Instruction coated with love from God above was found from guidelines scattered throughout the pages of his guidebook—the Bible.

Allow Jesus into your heart and find the joy and peace that passes all understanding. He will be with you through every trial and heartache that tries to beat you. And then, true rewards will come on a daily basis. Jesus cares for you that much.

Phoebe Leggett is the recipient of two poetry awards from Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writer’s Conference in 2007. Her poems, articles, and short stories have appeared in Slate & Style, Shemom, MS Focus, Who’s DANN, MS Connection, Pacific Press, and Gospel Publishing House. Several of her poems have been read on air at WORD Radio. Her current project is developing a book on grief. She is married with three grown children, (one of whom was killed in 2004), two felines, and one grandchild. Her new website is under construction and will be available at a later date.

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Trust in God – Phoebe Leggett
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In you I trust, O my God. Do not let me be put to shame, nor let my enemies triumph over me. Psalms 25:2 NIV

Having escaped an abusive marriage without hope for a happy or productive future, I struck out as a single mom with three small children. With legal advice from an attorney, a restraining order, and a separation agreement, I plunged headlong into my future with nothing but faith in the God of my salvation.

My first miracle happened when my brother and sister-in-law realized the conditions of my marriage were life-threatening, and helped me move to my parents’ home three hours away. Money was tight, almost non-existent. But a reprieve from violence was remarkable. One miracle after another followed this move as I learned to rely on God for my very survival.

God’s promises are true and have been proven over and over again throughout my lifetime. My escape from abuse is a testimony of God’s grace and mercy; and a restoration of joy, my reward. With complete abandonment and absolute trust in God I now live every day to the fullest.

How about you? Have you allowed God to guide your life on a daily basis? He wants your trust so He can be your help and strength in times of trouble.

Phoebe Leggett is the recipient of two poetry awards from Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers’ Conference in 2007. Her poems, articles, and short stories have appeared in Slate & Style, Shemom, MS Focus, Who’s DANN, MS Connection, Pacific Press, and Gospel Publishing House. Several of her poems have been read on air at WORD Radio. Her current project is developing a book on grief. She is married with three grown children, (one of whom was killed in 2004), two felines, and one grandchild. Her new website is under construction and will be available at a later date.

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Truth of Youth – Phoebe Leggett
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Remember your Creator in the days of your youth…  Ecclesiastes 12:1

To Samantha

When she sees a puddle,
she steps in it.

When he sees a pole,
he swings on it.

When she sees a cat,
she touches it.

When he sees a bug,
he spits on it.

When she sees a butterfly,
she chases it.

When he sees another child,
he talks to it.

When she sees a candle,
she blows on it.

When he sees a baby,
he kisses it.

When she waves good-bye to home
she misses it.

Phoebe Leggett is the recipient of two poetry awards from Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writer’s Conference in 2007. Her poems, articles, and short stories have appeared in Slate & Style, Shemom, MS Focus, Who’s DANN, MS Connection, Pacific Press, and Gospel Publishing House. Several of her poems have been read on air at WORD Radio. Her current project is developing a book on grief. She is married with three grown children, (one of whom was killed in 2004), two felines, and one grandchild. Her new website is under construction and will be available at a later date.

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Nature’s Best – Phoebe Legett
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Springtime fresh
is in the air.
Vivid colors
everywhere.

As crocus, jonquil,
daffodil
sprout vibrant blooms
on neighbor’s hill

small hatchling birds
inside the nest
will take their place
with nature’s best

where grace breaks forth
God’s love for man
who put in place
salvation’s plan.

And nature sings
a brand new song
deliverance
for plans gone wrong.

Recovery, hope
and healing too;
Christ died for all.
All is brand new.

Phoebe Leggett is the recipient of two poetry awards from Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writer’s Conference in 2007. Her poems, articles, and short stories have appeared in Slate & Style, Shemom, MS Focus, Who’s DANN, MS Connection, Pacific Press, and Gospel Publishing House. Several of her poems have been read on air at WORD Radio. Her current project is developing a book on grief. She is married with three grown children, (one of whom was killed in 2004), two felines, and one grandchild. Her new website is under construction and will be available at a later date.

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Not a Statistic – Phoebe Leggett
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…He will command his angels concerning you to guard you carefully… Luke 4: 10 NIV

Many times I could have been a statistic, but I wasn’t. I could have been killed over and over again, but I’m still alive. The number of times God has rescued me from impending disaster, only heaven will reveal.

Before I became a Christian I was unaware of angels in my life. But when I learned to trust in God, he began to reveal that truth to me. Looking back over my life I realize angels have saved me many times from serious accidents.

When I was six-years-old, an elderly friend of the family drove my brother and me to see a group of goats living close to his home. They were feeding on tall grasses growing near the spillway of a reservoir. Needless to say, my brother and I were thrilled with this excursion.

But on our return trip home, the dirt road we were traveling wasn’t wide enough for two cars to safely pass, and we were hit head-on by another car.

At that moment, visuals of my short life flashed before me as though watching a fast-paced movie. I thought my young life was over, but it wasn’t. With only minor bumps and scratches, we all survived to tell about our accident.

How comforting to know angels are among us, protecting us every minute of every day. God is with us every moment of our lives–watching carefully. And yes, that’s a promise from God we can depend on.

Phoebe Leggett is the recipient of two poetry awards from Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writer’s Conference in 2007. Her poems, articles, and short stories have appeared in Slate & Style, Shemom, MS Focus, Who’s DANN, MS Connection, Pacific Press, and Gospel Publishing House. Several of her poems have been read on air at WORD Radio. Her current project is developing a book on grief. She is married with three grown children, (one of whom was killed in 2004), two felines, and one grandchild. Her new website is under construction and will be available at a later date.

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No Limitations – Phoebe Leggett
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If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer. Matthew 21:22 NIV

I see limitations.
I see my handicap.
Compromised in this world,
my life an open map.

But now no more disguise.
No hiding in the street.
The mocker is no more
because I won’t claim defeat.

The limitations I placed on myself were the only boundaries I had. If I believed I was limited, then I was. If I believed I was incapable of accomplishing my goals, then I couldn’t. But when I put my trust in God, I learned to believe in myself. After that, I was able to reach far beyond my wildest dreams. I could go as far as I desired as long as I kept my faith in God. For I had learned God desires me to be an achiever, and to live in the freedom He died to attain for me.

Long ago I believed I wasn’t as qualified as others, so I allowed my inferiority to dominate. But when I learned to trust in God, I gained confidence in myself. Soon I was able to achieve my objectives. Through Christ my world expanded significantly.

No longer tied by boundaries or limitations, I am now qualified to claim victory over past defeats. Putting my trust in God, and the promises written in His word, has rewarded me with the freedom to achieve my heart’s desire. Does He set your boundaries?

Phoebe Leggett is the recipient of two poetry awards from Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writer’s Conference in 2007. Her poems, articles, and short stories have appeared in Slate & Style, Shemom, MS Focus, Who’s DANN, MS Connection, Pacific Press, and Gospel Publishing House. Several of her poems have been read on air at WORD Radio. Her current project is developing a book on grief. She is married with three grown children, (one of whom was killed in 2004), two felines, and one grandchild. Her new website is under construction and will be available at a later date.  Read Phoebe’s devotions

Making Right Choices – Phoebe Leggett
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“See, I set before you today life and prosperity, death and destruction… Now choose life, so that you and your children may live.” Deuteronomy 30: 15, 19 NIV

It’s God’s desire that we make right choices in life, yet He gives us the exclusive privilege of making our own decisions and choices. It’s up to us to make the right ones. Often we get so scooped up in the busyness of life that our judgment becomes clouded. Making good choices gets tough and it requires us to take the time to ponder our options and not hurry through life without realizing our choices will determine our future.

Just as a parent’s heart breaks because their child makes wrong choices in life. God’s heart breaks when we make wrong choices. Still, He is merciful to forgive and help if we ask. Sometimes the right choice comes too late and we have to suffer the consequences of our actions.

God suffers too, when we make wrong choices. He loves us—so much that He sent His son to die that we might have abundant life. And still, we fail to turn to Him for guidance in our life’s decisions.

Yesterday I saw a car wreck being cleaned up on the side of the road. The highway was blocked and medics and police swarmed to help. It reminded me of the day my son lost his life in a car crash. It broke my heart again to see this scene. How much more does God’s heart break?

Sometimes our choices bring death. It isn’t God’s choice that we die, but that we live.

Trust God to help you make right choices. If wrong choices are made, He is willing to forgive if we ask.

Lean on Him when you face major decisions, even when the choices are small. Only He can make things right again.

Phoebe Leggett was the recipient of two poetry awards from the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writer’s Conference in 2007. Many of her poems, articles, and short stories have appeared in various magazines and Christian literature; and she is currently working on a book about grief. She is married with two grown children and one grandchild. Her youngest son was killed in a tragic accident in 2004. Learn more about Phoebe at http://www.phoebeleggett.com/.
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