Day 181 That I May Know Him

 

6/30/2025 

"But let him who glories glory in this, that he

understands and knows Me, that I am the LORD,

exercising loving kindness, judgment and

righteousness in the earth. For in these I do delight,

says the LORD."

Jeremiah 9:24  

 

What exactly does it mean to understand and know God? 

Evangelists coin the phrase "knowing God and making Him known" as the vision behind the call.  Rightfully so, as how can one make someone known without first knowing that person intimately, having a deep and lasting friendship with that One? Naturally the answer is that it is impossible otherwise. But then there are many examples of those in scripture who have professed to speak on God's behalf, yet they do not know Him, and He says that He has not sent them. The consequences for that did not turn out well for the false prophets named in Jeremiah, as I read today. In our modern age there are those touting the name "prophet" who are followed religiously like sheep being led to the slaughter, and whose books and prophetic words supersede the scriptures. We must be careful to whom we listen, and we must study the word of God so we are not tricked into accepting lies, cunningly supported by a form of godliness but denying the true power of God. Seek for Him with your whole heart, and He will be found. Keep your eyes trained on Jesus as the Author and Finisher of your faith. As we seek to know God, we must be wise of the schemes of the enemy who seeks to destroy us, because he hates Jesus, so he hates us. His love is feigned for his own purposes, but Jesus' love is true, and He proved His love by dying for us, taking on Himself all the evil of this world, so we could have fellowship with God for eternity.

In my personal journey, growing in my relationship with the Lord, I know that it takes time, commitment, and surrender to God's will and plans. John 15 speaks of abiding in Christ, making our home in Him, as He has in us. Listen as John the Apostle speaks so eloquently the words of our Savior, the words of life:

"I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you. Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me. I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing." John 15:1-5

Jesus has given us the Comforter, just as He promised the disciples. Holy Spirit teaches us, reminds us, of all Jesus did and said while He walked this earth. He convicts us if we stray, and He intercedes for us, as Jesus intercedes for us. When someone truly becomes acquainted with Jesus, understands Him, His message, His ferocious love for us, understands His birth, death, burial and resurrection, then he can begin to know Him. We love Him, because He first loved us. He gets our attention. He got mine. I wouldn't want to live my life any other way, than being in His presence, loving Him, being truly loved, just as I am, but transformed to a new life. 

So often I have quoted from the writings of some of the late greats, because they understood who Jesus is and all that He has done and will continue to do for those who love Him, who delight to follow in His ways. Clothed in His righteousness, His tender mercies, humility, meekness, longsuffering, perseverance, forgiveness as He forgave us, and in His great love. Lamentations 3:22-23 says "Through the LORD's mercies we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great in Your faithfulness."

Andrew Murray wrote about relationship with God in his book, Absolute Surrender:

“Being filled with the Spirit is simply this - having my whole nature yielded to His power. When the whole soul is yielded to the Holy Spirit, God Himself will fill it.” 

He said, “I need to spend time with God even when I do not know what to pray.” 

In his book, The Pursuit of God, A. W. Tozer said:

“O God, I have tasted Thy goodness, and it has both satisfied me and made me thirsty for more. I am painfully conscious of my need for further grace. I am ashamed of my lack of desire. O God, the Triune God, I want to want Thee; I long to be filled with longing; I thirst to be made more thirsty still. Show me Thy glory, I pray Thee, so that I may know Thee indeed. Begin in mercy a new work of love within me. Say to my soul, ‘Rise up my love, my fair one, and come away.’ Then give me grace to rise and follow Thee up from this misty lowland where I have wandered so long.”

A W Tozer made it his deepest desire to live in the presence of God, and He did. “To have found God and still to pursue Him is the soul’s paradox of love.” 

Knowing Him is my greatest desire also. 

Day 180 Stay Alert

 

6/29/2025 

 "But those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength;

They shall mount up with wings like eagles,

They shall run and not be weary,

They shall walk and not faint."

Isaiah 40:31

 

My heart is so saddened by what I am seeing in America, but I don't want to talk about that really. It becomes senseless to talk about it, when what is needed is action. I can pray about things, and I know God hears me, sees my heart is sincere, but when I can send letters, money to support the free legal teams, or support tangibly in other ways, then it is my responsibility to do more. I write about everything, but I don't know who, if anyone, is interested in my blogs or even what I have to say. I have always been involved in organizations directly supporting a cause. When I was in my 20's I helped out at the crisis pregnancy center as a counselor offering resources and support/encouragement, spiritual connections. I sewed maternity clothing for the ladies, and on weekends and holidays, I served as a crisis phone counselor. In my 30's, shortly after moving to New Mexico, I became involved with several community groups, usually church and school-related. But I was asked to be a co-manager of the literacy program, and my job was matching the adult students with the right volunteer to assist them in learning English literacy. The lady I worked with died a few years ago from cancer. I was saddened by that news, and I hope the program continues, as many need assistance. The school system in the area of New Mexico where I lived ranked so low, that programs were added. I was involved in an at risk program for young mothers and the fathers of the babies. I imagine that continues to be a problem to this day, as it seems to be an epidemic. At least the kids carried their children to term, and then they cared for them, aided by the welfare system. The State bears the brunt of the expenses, but they do not provide the type of support needed - how to stop having children out of wedlock. Sadly too, there are some fathers do not want to care for the children, so they live off the welfare money for each child, take vacations, and carry on their irresponsible behavior by impregnating another girl, maybe more, then making the rounds to collect the support money. I have witnessed this personally. It is disheartening. I am relieved that our government is involved in identifying fraud.

Since moving here, almost four years ago, I've noticed that several of the churches are involved with the Samaritan's Purse Operation Christmas Child project putting shoe boxes together for children all over the world. Last year my sister's small church put together 402 boxes, and I was able to assist with that, as I will continue to do. I had been knitting for community needs and painting faces for Dolls on Mission, missionary dolls, many of which end up in shoe boxes for the children around the world. I need to get back to helping, because it is enjoyable and satisfying helping others. Samaritan's Purse also needs help packing the boxes at many of the packing centers in states close by, and the individual churches always need donations for the children. Many churches provide clothes closets and food pantries for people in their communities, as well as personal toiletries and items for the home. So many needs exist in our world today, and we can all help do something.

My burden, my great love, is helping Israel through the International Christian Embassy in Jerusalem. I have attended daily morning prayer calls for 632 days since 10/7/2023, and I support other agencies and local churches in Israel that assist the Jewish people and the Arabs people who are in crisis. Since the massacre started this war, many are affected. We work with the IDF soldiers and other groups, and we support the hostage families, as well as the hostages after they have been released. The trauma they face, as do the soldiers who have experienced physical and emotional trauma from the battle, is a constant need. The embassy has provided horses to assist with emotional trauma in children who witnessed horrific sights and abuse. On a local level I work with other prayer ministries and organizations assisting Israel, and I have worked with a couple of churches in an attempt to get the message out regarding our awareness as Christians with Jewish history, connecting with our Hebraic roots. I've used my blogs in an attempt to explain the errors being taught in the church that have led to more antisemitism and hatred of the Jewish people. It dates back centuries, and it must stop. Thankfully, we have a President who is trying to support Israel and their Prime Minister at this crucial time in history. But there is so much more to be done, and we who are Christians need to understand the truth and expose the lies. We cannot remain silent, looking the other way. We need to silence the enemy by standing up and being the church God called us to be in support of our brothers and sisters in Christ. My job is to equip the church, and I so desire to reach out and encourage others to become involved. There is also a battle going on for our religious freedom, and our President has established a faith office at the White House, and the Faith Advisory Council that includes me as an intercessor along with hundreds of others, linking our shields of faith together to pray and stand for our leaders and our nation. We are praying for godly, righteous men and women to fill positions of leadership in our cities and states, and if God puts it on the heart of a man or woman of faith to run for an open position, then we encourage them. We are in a spiritual battle, and if you haven't noticed yet, if it hasn't come near your home yet, don't worry, it will eventually. As a follower of Christ Jesus warned us of all these things that will happen before His return. And it is getting closer and closer. 

We all have gifts and callings, things we feel compelled to do or love to do. Use your talents God has given you to help those in need. Please give consideration and prayerfully consider all I have said. Jesus said for us to occupy until He returns. We can't sit idly by and watch be destroyed when we can do something to make a difference. Our children are the future leaders of America, and right now they are very confused. Make a difference, and let them see your faith in action, as Jesus said it should be. What a great testimony to our children! 

Day 179 Teach Us to Pray

 

6/28/2025

"Lord, teach us to pray."

Luke 11:1

 

A dear friend called me early this morning. I hadn't heard from her in a while, but I knew she had been extremely busy trying to balance the care of the people in her life. She tends to bite off more than she can chew at times, and she has overcome many severe personal health challenges. Still, she finds the strength and wherewithal to take care of others, even in the midst of her pain. She's loyal, faithful, and loving, and family is everything to her, as it should be. I called her a couple of days ago, just to let her know I cared, and to touch bases, as I sensed something was up, and I was right. Being attentive to the voice of God is so important, and as a friend, who seems to have more than I can handle all the time, I want to keep my discerning ears open at all times. 

As the days pass by, and the war continues in Israel, we on the prayer wall become at a loss for words. Today I heard the words, "Lord, I don't know how or what to pray" spoken by one of male intercessors, allowing himself to be vulnerable. Thankfully, when we no longer know how or what to say, Holy Spirit steps in with words that cannot be uttered, and our prayers ascend to Abba on high, as incense. He knows our hearts are surrendered to His. One of my favorite words to pray when I don't know what else to say is "HELP!" and He does.

The disciples had been with Jesus for a time, had witnessed the periods of isolation when He separated Himself to be alone with the Father, to seek Him, and here they are asking Him to teach them to pray. In Luke 11 Jesus gives us what is known as The Lord's Prayer, the Model Prayer. I say it each day as a corporate prayer and as an individual response. When we repeat the words, we should do so deliberately, slowly, so we can fully understand the significance of each plea. It is not a magic all in one prayer. It's a model to show how we are to approach a Holy God. We come to Him in humility, surrendered and laying our hearts and souls on the line, never demanding, but in reverent fear. He is God. He alone is holy.

It is interesting to note that in this context found in Luke's account, the prayer follows with Jesus teaching His apostles the importance of continuing to ask, seek, and knock, when it comes to spending time in prayer. He gives a parable of the friend who comes at midnight and asks his friend for bread. The friend wasn't responsive to the needs of the one asking, but persistence paid off. This is the key - persistence. In Matthew 6, the same request for Jesus to teach them to pray was made by the disciples during the Sermon on the Mount. But here, Jesus follows His teaching by instructing them on forgiveness. He reminds them again, as He has just said in the model prayer, "forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors," the importance of remaining without fault when they pray. If you take a look at this portion of the Sermon on the Mount, it is interesting how his teaching continues from this point on. Nothing is to be taken on granted. 

Jesus then goes on to teach about fasting, then goes on to teach about laying up treasures here on earth. Later on in Chapter 6 He will end the chapter exhorting them to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and then all other things will be added unto them. He didn't mean glitz and bling, or keeping up with the proverbial Jones. He meant to have our priorities straight by focusing on the gospel message, sharing about the kingdom of God. Jesus warns about keeping our eyes open, full of His light, focusing on the true treasure, rather than earthly riches. We cannot serve two masters. I wonder how many people attending that massive gathering understood what He was saying?! Or did they follow Him, because He performed miracles and fed them? I must believe more people were transformed, small beginnings prior to His death, burial, resurrection, and the Apostles being filled with Holy Spirit and fire on that day of Pentecost. The book of Acts describes that day the fire fell from heaven, and they were empowered from on High to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ to all men. They end up setting the world on fire, and they paid a dear price for their obedience and love of the Master, as we will, and as we do now.  

Before any of this can happen in the heart of a man, woman, boy, or girl, we have to listen to the very first words Jesus spoke at the beginning of His ministry, the same boldly announced by the man who preceded Him, preparing the way of the Lord. Matthew shares in his gospel that after Jesus' baptism by John the Baptist, He was led into the wilderness by Holy Spirit to be tempted by satan. After that, Jesus began to preach, and to say, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." (Matthew 4:17)

More than at any time in history these words of the kingdom of heaven being at hand are becoming more and more obvious to those who understand the words of the scriptures, the words of Jesus. We need to be aware, because we are in a spiritual battle that gains momentum daily. I don't have to look around to know that is true, but it would behoove others to take a look and paid heed. Today is the day of salvation, so make the most of it! Be ready when the King returns.

Day 178 Where do I Fit?

 

6/27/2025 

"Let go of your territory for a while. Explore some

new reefs. Scout some new regions. Much is gained by 

closing your mouth and opening your eyes." 

 

Max Lucado

And the Angels Were Silent

 

 

Hebrews 11 is the hallmark of fame of holy travelers who were remembered for their faith in God. Abraham is the forerunner of our faith, because when God told him to leave his family and his country and travel to an unknown destination, trusting Him to guide his way, without hesitation Abraham obeyed. It is through Abraham that the Hebrew line began, and God's covenant with His people was made. In Christ, believers also inherit these blessings and the mystery of a life following God's leading. There will be times in our life where we may not be given advance information, so we simply have to launch out into the deep. When I moved back to Virginia, all I had was a message to "get into the boat and sail to the other side." It took awhile, but I eventually did just that. Because of wrong decisions made previously, my entire family has faced dire consequences of not heeding God's "not yet," so I really needed to make sure this was God speaking. Obedience requires trust, but He does not promise a perfect ride. That's the journey.

This morning in our short devotional a question was asked regarding why people preferred living in cities to country living. The obvious reason is the convenience of having everything you need within a short distance. We have become an "instant society." Everything is made easier for us. Kids don't have to check out books, because they have chrome books or ipads. The fast food industry makes it easy to grab a meal and keep running. No more family meals around the table, discussing how the day went for all. No one goes outside to play, because they can play games on their devises, and they can have "AI" friends or companions. Personally, I lean towards the country lifestyle, and it doesn't bother me to have to drive an hour to a grocery store. I love the quiet, the clean air, the country smells, and the beauty of God's kingdom. I'm still waiting for that dream home or shack, I don't really care. I would accept a hobbit burrow in a hill, just so I could rest and dream. I live at the edge of country, with a row of crepe myrtle trees lining the back yard where I have situated my retro red metal chair, hidden from view, where I can enjoy the tranquility of nature. I had it positioned too close to the bird bath, so we fought for the location. My chair got the hits, so I moved it to a better area. I remember my daddy sitting out under the big maple in the back yard. It is still shady, but it is much taller now. He loved to rest in the cool of the evening. These are the simple things and ways, but few appreciate simplicity any more. 

It's fun to study the history of civilization, noting how people lived, how they felt about their lives, the changes over the centuries. There are places, people who still live a simpler life style. The Amish people probably sticks out in people's mind, as they do not have any modern conveniences, living simply, in community, where they help each other in time of need. If one suffers, they all suffer. That sounds like how it was in the Acts 2 church. I admire the Amish people, because they work hard, and they actually enjoy it, plus they never go without anything they need. God provides.

I pulled out an old movie just to escape for a brief time, and to dream a bit. Divergent is about a futuristic world in which society is divided into five factions based on the characteristics of those within each faction. 1) Abnegation - included those who put others before themselves, lived simply, depriving themselves of unnecessary or self-serving pleasures. Even a mirror was not allowed, because it could lead to pride. 2) Amity - included those who lived peacefully with others, kind, avoiding conflict. 3) Candor - included those who believed in living honest, transparent lifestyles, devoid of any form of deceit or idleness. 4) Erudite - included elite members of society who prided themselves on their educational prowess and understanding. They considered themselves enlightened and obvious leaders. 5) Dauntless - included the peacekeepers, without fear, never afraid to take a risk, reckless in their attitudes and actions, resolute.

The title "Divergent" if acknowledged by those who administered tests was never disclosed, because it would bring death. These people were feared by others, because they did not fit into one faction, they had the characteristics of all five factions, so they were feared and eliminated. In reality, those within this all inclusive group, who possessed the qualities of all five factions, were the perfect balance all in one person. Who else would be better equipped to be the leaders in a society than one who shared all the characteristics of this society. It's an interesting study of people and what they consider the answer to living in balance.

The Lord gives us personality traits or "gifts of the Spirit" as we each have a plan and purpose for being on this earth. It's nice to know the gifts and callings of Holy Spirit, so we are able to walk in our purpose and be a blessings to all others. I was forced to take a spiritual gifts test a couple of years ago, and I really didn't fit into one category, rather they were all bunched up together. It's hard to say what I feel is more important than another. I've never bee a good test taker. I just did what I felt God was calling me to do, or if there was a vacancy in the church, I just stepped in to teach or do whatever was needed. I never considered myself particularly "gifted," but this didn't keep me from helping where needed. But, I do have dreams that never die, and I think that could be a good thing.

From time to time I revisit the question of fulfilling my purpose, so Max's quotation from his book got me thinking again, as did other prompts. So, who knows what tomorrow may bring. Perhaps I'm on the verge of a miracle?! 

Day 177 Surrounded

 

6/26/2025 

"Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is

perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day.

For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for

us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory,

while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things

which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporal,

but the things which are not seen are eternal."

2 Corinthians 4:16-18

 

When I woke up this morning, I felt like a drenched kitten the humidity was high, and it was so muggy. I was up and down all night trying to get comfortable, as I do not have air conditioning in the old house, only a ceiling fan, that I inadvertently turned off when I turned the lights off.  I had back pain, leg pain, foot pain, and I was frazzled beyond description. 

 

The cup of coffee did not help, but a cool shower helped, until I stepped out of the shower into the sauna. In my moment of desperation my son and I went to Lowe's to check out air conditioners. I developed a headache from the shock of an air conditioned car and the building, plus I couldn't make up my mind whether I wanted a portable a/c or a window unit. Frustrated over my inability to decide, I decided to return home and pull out the extra fan. It was badly in need of cleaning, but I used it nonetheless. It did help, as did the shifting weather and the rain, slight as it was, but it did help cool things off a bit. When I first moved back home, the topic of installing an air conditioner was discussed, but Daniel had his window unit, plus the cool downstairs retreat, and I was resolute in my determination to relive my childhood without the modern conveniences of today. I can't believe how soft I've become in my older age. Heat never bothered me before, but now things are different. I was ready to move back to the hills of New Mexico!! 

Thursday evenings I have my Harvest study group, but the impending storm and loss of my internet canceled that gig. Still, I was able to tune phone in to two different meetings last night, and I caught up on the IFA prayer call needs. So, all was not lost, but again, my routine changed abruptly. Still, I did accomplish something, and it was a peaceful night, or so I thought. I made the mistake of going outside to check up on Alex, and every mosquito in town must have been given notice that I was home and available for attack. Alcohol has become my best friend, and I'm not supposed to be using that toxic chemical on my body. I am speaking of the rubbing alcohol, just in case someone new is reading this blog. I also found an ant on my bed, and I definitely do not want to fend off ant attacks in my own bed!! 

 

When you're miserable for whatever reason, it's easy to become discouraged, but this is the time I think back over my life, and I wonder. When I'm out in the wilds...near shopping centers and people, I always manage to make a friend. Checking out at Lowe's I met a lady employee who said she was turning 75 in August, and she was still working. I told her I'd be 75 in August, and I needed a job, so I could shop at Lowe's. We laughed, but she ended up hugging me, because we felt like kindred spirits as we shared our desire to beat the popular idea that once you're over 70 you may as well dig a hole and jump in!! Well, that's a myth! I now have a friend in the community, sort of! We bonded, we talked, we laughed, we hugged...! That's friendship!

I assure you that there is a serious note to my blog for today, as the day was rather a busy one. I just had to take a small break for sanity's sake! The weather certainly got the best of me, but I did manage my morning calls. Discussion of terrorists, uranium stockpiles, detonators and secret rendezvous and other secret stuff can be profitable, but the answer to all situations is left in the hands of God. When considering the power of an enemy, feeling surrounded on all sides, with no way of escape, it does us well to consider examples of God's faithfulness in such dire times. In 2 Kings 6:16-17 the Syrian enemy had made war with Israel, and the city was surrounded so the servant of Elisha the prophet became very distraught over the situation. Elisha told his servant, "Do not fear, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them." Elisha prayed, "LORD, I pray, open his eyes that he may see." Then the Lord opened the servant's eyes, and "behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha." In this time of war and uncertainly we must keep our eyes on the Captain of the Army of Heaven, knowing that there are indeed more with us than those with the enemy. 

In the evening, I decided to watch a movie set in an another time, but there was war, and the enemy seemed invincible. But, not so, when good is greater than evil. This reassures me in a happenstance way, that women are stronger in certain ways. It's our inner courage, our lioness quality, the way we approach danger or threat of danger. We are after all soldiers of the King, so enemies of any sort, can easily be overthrown when our eyes are fixed on Jesus. We need only open our eyes and look around us!

  

 

Day 176 Summing It Up

 

 

 6/25/2025

 "I sought the Lord, and He heard me,

and delivered me from all my fears."

Psalm 34:4

 

Yesterday, after trudging through the muck and mire and stepping on to solid ground again, I decided that I'd just sit still and listen awhile, before I began another day. Determined to forego my usual life, of sifting through countless emails, silencing all the incoming calls and group text messages - none of which I initiated - or any of a number of things that cloud my perspective or bring me down, I determined I'd shut down anything that distracted me, so I could just focus on doing what God wanted me to do at the time. I feel that the daily prayer calls have disrupted my "routine," as I mentioned a day or so ago, but it is a blessed necessity, and I answered a call I believe was God-sent. I've made adjustments over all these days, going on two years now. So now I can breathe, continue to take it one day at a time, just as I have tried to live my life with Christ always. Thankfully, I'm on an upward swing, with no more rabbit holes or eating rug days.

Today was a quiet day in Israel, as far as Iran's attacks are concerned; however, in Gaza, as the search for mines and arsenals, and the search for the hostages continues, tragedy struck. An explosive device set by Hamas exploded killing seven IDF soldiers, and another incident injured two more. So while life as "normal" returned to the streets of Jerusalem, with children returning to school and others playing in the streets, without alerts scream for them to get to shelters, the war in Gaza continues with clean up.

On a national scene, I don't think we ever have a real day of peace, as the incessant chatter against our administration wages war on all that is holy and just. Every day I receive junk emails or have interruptions in the video I am watching on YouTube with political drama. I'm not really one who watches videos unless they are ministry-based, but there are even disturbing advertisements on them. I wonder if anyone has a conscience. I am so careful about what I watch, and I certainly do not trust a secular media report, unless I can hear the actual verbal account from the one making it, and not a person reporting that "he said" or "she said." I don't know why Christians waste their time listening to such garbage, but many do. Didn't Paul the Apostle tell us in Philippians 4:8 to think on the good, pure, lovely things of a good report? Jesus had much to say on the Sermon on the Mount in Chapter 5-7 of Matthew. Really good stuff every Christ follower should read. Abba refers me to it often, as a reminder, and a smack on the hand. I'm smiling as I write these words, because God is faithful to keep me in line. It's part of the comfort offered by our Comforter, Holy Spirit who abides in me. I'm so grateful He does.

Today in the meeting we also discussed the rising antisemitism in the church over the question of Replacement Theology. Whereas I have said I do not understand how educated theologians who pat themselves on the back for their academic achievements cannot understand the truth of the Bible regarding Israel, God's chosen people, it is nonetheless true, as I have witnessed it myself. Other things I witness too, as I mentioned yesterday, but I don't want to get back into that mental/spiritual controversy today. I am focusing on what Jesus is saying, but He does have much to say about that subject in Romans 11. Okay, I couldn't resist a little insert. 

Many scriptures were prayed, many declared, but the one I think is so appropriate for this day, and this time in history is Psalm 46:

"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

Therefore we will not fear, even though the earth be removed,

and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea;

Though its waters roar and be troubled,

though the mountains shake with its swelling.

Selah

There is a river whose streams shall make glad the city of God,

the holy place of the Tabernacle of the Most High.

God is in the midst of her, she shall not be moved;

God shall help her, just at the break of dawn.

The nations raged, the kingdoms were moved;

He uttered His voice, the earth melted.

The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge.

Selah

Come, behold the works of the LORD, who has made desolations in the earth.

He makes wars cease to the end of the earth; He breaks the bow 

and cuts the spear in two; He burns the chariot in the fire.

Be still and know that I am God;

I will be exalted among the nations,

I will be exalted in the earth!   

The LORD of hosts is with us;

The God of Jacob is our refuge.

Selah 

Considering all things, I'd say that sums up God's perspective on everything! 

   

Day 175 Pause and Remember

 

6/24/2025

 "You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds

are steadfast, because they trust in you."

Isaiah 26:3

  

These past two days have been rather tense, and my "irritation quotient" nearing implosion rate. It seems as if my spirit, my inner being, has been heightened, and my spiritual eyes have been allowed to "see" or "discern" more than my human heart can bear. I don't know if that is an accurate description of how I am feeling or not. To say that I am emotionally disturbed by what I see and sense may be a better explanation, but then, I imagine whoever reads this may wonder "what is she saying!" The words of this song, Be Magnified by Randy Rothwell, may help: 

"I have made you too small in my eyes
Oh Lord, forgive me
And I have believed in a lie
That you were unable to help me

 

But now, oh Lord, I see my wrong
Heal my heart and show yourself strong
And in my eyes, and with my song
Oh Lord, be magnified
Oh Lord, be magnified

 

Be magnified, oh Lord
You are highly exalted
And there is nothing You can't do
Oh Lord, my eyes are on You
Be magnified
Oh Lord, be magnified

 

I have leaned on the wisdom of men
Oh Lord, forgive me
And I have responded to them
Instead of your light and your mercy

 

But now, oh Lord, I see my wrong
Heal My Heart and show yourself strong
And in my eyes and with my song
Oh Lord, be magnified
Oh Lord, be magnified"

As I began writing, this song began to play; it's as if God wanted to make sure my thoughts and feelings were being properly conveyed. Music helps me express my emotions when my own words often fall short. When I try to talk to my son about what I am sensing, I appear overly concerned about the human condition, something that has deeply bothered him for years giving way to deep inner conflict. So, I should know better than to burden him with things that only add to his problems. My first inclination is that in seeing what I see, the problem must be my own, that I am being overly critical or judgmental, so I repent once more, sinner that I am. Then I snap out of that feeling, as I am not going down that rabbit hole any more. I recognize the spiritual attack. No, this is part of what I have been allowed to see for a reason. Still, repentance is never not needed, as I never want to think I know more than I do, because I don't. That is the problem I am sensing with others.

The verse above, "I have leaned on the wisdom of men," is the focus. I have written about this in so many ways, some more directly than others, but it seems as if the words of Jesus are always before me:

 "And the LORD said to me, 'The prophets prophesy lies in My name. 

I have not sent them, commanded them, nor spoken to them; 

they prophesy to you a false vision, divination, a worthless thing, 

and the deceit of their heart."

Jeremiah 14:14

All my life I have observed others and intently watched how emotions, fear being the greatest one, work in the hearts of man (inclusive) to not rely on the words and counsel of God, rather they must run to a person for a word from the Lord. Jesus spoke about this in His teachings. I am watching as groups of people develop into a movement, then the movement grows larger than life, except when discernment comes in, otherwise that  group may splinter into another group, eventually growing into another movement, another camp of seemingly spiritual wherewithal. It becomes so nauseating to watch and scary, especially among those professing belief in Christ. I have become so skeptical of people who demand respect and acclaim because of academic achievements. Does a person's credibility become more profound based on "post-nominal letters" than on their relationship with the Almighty God, for whom they say they speak? So, as the lowly one with on a BS attached to my name (note the pun), I admit my confusion and dismay.

So here I am today, rethinking over recent developments. It is also disconcerting to me to consider how one moment in time someone is hailed for their decision to save the planet from certain, eventual nuclear destruction, or on a smaller scheme, the country of Israel and the larger nation of the United States of America (notice the emphasis on the latter to note our home), to do an about face and have the news media, and even Christians who think they can read facial expressions, begin to rip the man to shreds! I don't understand. Maybe my lack of education prevents me from it?! Regardless, respect should be shown. If the man who was cursed, because of another's frustration and obvious fatigue (and who wouldn't be?!), can accept regret for those hastily spoken words and give forgiveness, who are we, all sinners, to complain?! Even in the church - who made us God that we think we can give our opinions so freely or say, "Thus saith the Lord?" I think God expressed the same sentiment in Jeremiah, and then again in Ezekiel.

When I witness all that I am seeing on a national level, especially in churches, it brings me to my knees and to literal tears of repentance and great sadness. When David repented of his sins, God said that He looked for someone with a broken and contrite heart and a broken spirit, this meant that David realized he did not deserve God's mercy. I know I don't deserve His mercy or grace, and I will never forget the day I looked into Jesus's face, hanging on that cross for me. We change, because you can never erase the vision from your eyes. Not as a torment, because I am forgiven, but from a keen awareness of where I would be  except by the grace of God. Then I'd miss seeing the altogether lovely One who gave His life for me, so I could have relationship with God in this life and in the next.

I think this is a better way to spend my days.