Day 261 Every Joint Supplied

 

9/18/2025

"...from whom the whole body, joined and knit

together by what every joint supplies...."

Ephesians 4:16

 

At Harvest Ministries we began a new series called "Upward, Inward, and Outward." Pastor Greg is sharing about how the church has three purposes: the glorification of God (Upward), the edification of the saints (Inward), and the evangelism of the world (Outward), which actually is what the ministry is all about to know Jesus and to make Him known. Of course we know that we are called by God to bring Him glory. That's our purpose, and since the beginning of time, He has desired to have a relationship with us. That was the whole idea in the Garden of Eden when He walked in the cool of the day with Adam. And we know how that ended which jump started the decline of our world and all creation and is rapidly being played out in the evil expressed in the world at large today. But God had a plan, a superior plan, through Jesus Christ, His Son, and although evil does exist, and there is spiritual darkness, the Light of Christ outshines it all.

This week, my group was considering the Inward purpose for the church - edification. What exactly does that look like? In Romans 12:4-5 Paul speaks about the body of Christ, the church being made up of different parts much like the human body, one part complementing the other, each part dependent on the other for proper functioning.

"For as we have many members in one body, but all the members do not have the same function, so we, being many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another." 

Beautifully expressed, it lines up with what was said by the psalmist in Psalm 133:1, "Behold, how good and how pleasant it is when brothers dwell together in unity." Paul speaks later to the church in Corinth about spiritual gifts given by God used to help the church function in the way it was intended to do so, so that each person would grow in the role that God called them to do and in that way be an encouragement or edification to others. Each functioning in their purpose for the benefit of all, and all for the glory of God. In 1 Corinthians Paul is writing to a church that has had some confusion and questioning of many things, so in Chapter 12, Paul is explaining that all believers are given spiritual gifts, and there is unity in diversity of gifts and callings. He explains that, like the human body we cannot all be a hand, there has to be a finger, or a leg or a toe. But each part of the body functions symbiotically with the others. 

"Now you are the body of Christ, and members individually. And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healing, helps, administrations, varieties of tongues. Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Are all workers of miracles? Do all have the gifts of healing? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret? But earnestly desire the best gifts. And yet I show you a more excellent way." (1 Corinthians 12:27-31).

Paul again provides further instruction to the church in Ephesus: "And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ." (Ephesians 4:11-12) 

So we see that God has given these gifts that will edify the body of Christ. He adds that this is "till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; that we should no longer to children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head - Christ - from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love." (Ephesians 4:11-16). 

Having a medical background and a creative imagination, I tend to visualize ideas, or in this instances, put these truths into a mind puzzle or depiction. So think of this, Christ is the head of the body, and the spine is an extension, an elaborate creation of nerves projecting from the spine reaching all over the body. 

 

 

The above drawing is not quite as picturesque as I'd like it to me, but you can see the nerves extending from the spinal column into the arms and legs and into the soft tissues of the body.This depiction does not show the body complete with organs for the sake of showing the extension of the nerve endings. The function of the nerves is to enervate or supply what is needed for cells, tissues, organs to function properly and grow, as God designed. Then in turn when organs function, the brain sends signals to the limbs to work in symbiosis or in harmony with the other parts of the body. When someone becomes ill, the balance is off, so other cells, tissues, organs do not function normally. In Psalm 139 David stated that God created us "fearfully and wonderfully," and I would say that is an apt description of what Paul said in verse 16 of Ephesians 4: "...from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies...." 

I hope that my description makes it clearer about the importance of each person working together as one, using the gifts God has given for each of us, functioning as one unit, for His glory, praise, and honor. 

The next step, the third point, Pastor Greg will discuss is the Outward working of this three part descriptions of the purpose of the church, or as our Lord calls it, the Body of Christ with Him as the Head. The Outward working, of course, is evangelism which fulfills what Jesus told His disciples to do as He departed this earth to ascend back to His Father:

"Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, to the mountain which Jesus had appointed for them. When the saw Him, they worshiped Him; but some doubted. And Jesus came and spoke to them, saving, 'All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.'" (Matthew 28:16-20)

So our job, as followers of Jesus Christ is the same, and we can't function well and do the job God has given us to do unless we cooperate with one another, totally surrendering to His Lordship and guidance. We need each other, working together as the early church is described in Acts. After the death of Jesus and the arrival of Holy Spirit, the church faced persecution, but they continued on in the strength of Christ and His teachings. Acts 2:40-47 the early church is described as a viable and advancing body. I often wonder if anyone would be interested in going as far as they did, giving up possessions, sharing, making certain that no one goes hungry or needing anything. The word says they had all things in common, meaning sharing of everything! They taught the Apostles doctrine, as they called the Gospel, and they grew in numbers daily. A mighty revival and radical transformation occurred, and that is what we need today. They didn't have a Bible back then, but they had the words of Torah and the prophets, and other texts, and today we have the complete Bible, active and alive. The Bible is enough. We don't need gimmicks. As the word says:

"By His divine power the Lord has given us everything we need for life and godliness through the knowledge of the One who called us by His Own honor and glory." (2 Peter 1:3)

So now we go and do likewise, obeying the words of our Savior!

Day 260 Caterpillars

 

9/17/2025

 "For we know that if our earthly house, this tent, 

is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not

made with hands, eternal in the heavens."

2 Corinthians 5:1

 

Each day I read through so many scriptures that I never know which ones will speak to what's on my heart. Anyone who follows me realizes that a lot is going on inside this brain of mine. I never stop thinking. Maybe that's because I never stop praying, and in the circles I travel, there is always much need for prayer. This morning Pastor Jack provided the above scripture from 2 Corinthians, and it is something that I have been fuming about a lot!

Prior to this chapter, Paul is talking about our outward body or man perishing, but he explains that our inward man is being built up day by day. Our focus should be on our souls rather than our physical bodies or appearance. In Chapter 5 he continues to speak of the life we live in our temporary "tents," which seems like a very apt description of the human body as we age. My son is always reminding me that I am getting "thin skinned," and warns that I should be more careful. This is not news to me, but rather than be offended, as some people I know would, I laugh. Recently we had the top ripped off our tent outside where we store our tools and the lawnmower. The heavy rains ripped one part of the top off, and although it is a nice tent over a steel frame, well-anchored into the cement, it is still a temporary shelter. It reminds me that I need to get the little house repaired outside, so that a more durable shelter can be in place against the elements. Although the tent is durable, it has worn down over the last four years. Tents are temporary, as our human bodies are fragile and decaying. 

I've thought about this quite often, as someone I care about seems to think that the outer appearance is more important than what is on the inside, in our hearts. As followers of Christ, our hearts are much more important, although our bodies are the temple of Holy Spirit, so we need to consider how we care for our bodies as well. We do that by exercise, diet, cleanliness and good grooming. We also respect our bodies by the way we dress, by not conforming to the world's view of what is fashionable. A friend said once that if we feel good dressing a certain way that it is acceptable, but I differ, as scripture says otherwise. We are instructed to be modest, not drawing undesirable attention our way. These words may not be popular to some, but after many years of experience and helping at risk kids, please take heed, especially when there are so many more predators stalking young girls. 

I've never been a big make-up user, and what I do use has to be natural due to allergies to products with chemicals and preservatives. In truth, I've never taken a long time trying to look differently from who I am, especially these days. I may slap on a little mascara, but I generally cry it off in no time, because I cry when I pray, cry when I sing, and I cry when I laugh! I am out of control! My poor son thought I was always sad until I explained my tears, but he should know better than that! He grew up with this nutcase! He also knows that this is how I react. Nothing so bizarre about that, or at least that is how I believe.

I know that young girls want to be loved and accepted, so they take more time to look a certain way. I understand, but I really don't think a ten year old needs to wear make up. She's a baby, and most of these kids are naturally beautiful, with full eyelashes and natural glow and color to their cheeks and lips. Why paint the barn if it doesn't need paint? If they stay away from cigarettes, vapes, drugs, and alcohol, and if they don't lie out in the sunshine all slicked up like a basted chicken, then their skin wouldn't age as fast. Trust me on this one. The two photos I have on my Facebook page are taken when I'm in my 50's and 60's. They are not doctored up to look good, but I think my skin looks pretty good. Now, I need a new photo!

And what about these eyelashes? My son calls them "caterpillars," and they really do look like one! By the time the person sticks on that monstrosity and adds eyeliner, they can hardly open their eyes. I squint just looking at them. If it's an older woman, in her 60's, trying to look younger, face plastered with enough make up to cover a dozen faces, just so she can appear flawless on Zoom or in the news, well...need I say more. I see this all the time. I remember feeling so badly for one pastor's wife back in the 70's or 80's who used so much make up. People made fun of her, as they tel-evangelists, but I felt sorry for her. I wondered why would she feel that she needed to paint herself up so much, when she probably was an attractive lady under it all? Why do older women, especially church folks, wear clothing that exposes one shoulder while covering the other? I even wonder why certain young female artists think they need to cheapen themselves by wearing scanty clothing, when they started out so innocently and pure. This really concerns me, because they are examples for young kids!

I'm certainly not a fashion expert, as my daughter can tell you, but I dress comfortably and modestly. I don't invite trouble, even though at my age I doubt that's a problem. I still wear skirts to church on Sundays and when I go special places. I love skirts! I haven't worn a bathing suit since my children were young, and my skirts are longer, mostly because I like them that way, but once you're a victim, it makes you more cautious. Not that I was ever carefree, but things happen in life to make us more attentive.

These days people are confused about their gender, and it saddens me that so much evil in this world makes young people think they are never good enough, or confused as to who they are or why they're here on this earth. This kind of thinking is fed into them at an early age, then as they get older, school does it to them. Why can't a child be a child? No one even plays outside anymore. They are hurried to grow up in an ugly world. This burdens my heart. It hurts me, because there are so many distortions, deviated behaviors, and darkness. Jesus is the only answer. He brings light, and His light can dispel all darkness. But we have to get the word out, and we have to teach our children that they are beautiful and perfect in the sight of the God who created them in His own image for great works.

So please, remember our life here is brief, and regardless of whether we like it or not, we will age, and face changes, but it is not the end. It is just another season, but if we care for ourselves, as God intended for us, it's not bad. The part of all of us that is important is our inner self, beliefs, and our heart. The most important things is Jesus loves you, this I know, for the Bible tells me so! Now that's a profound statement to live by. So share it! Live it!

Day 259 I Lay It All Down

 

9/16/2025

"As long as it is day, we must do the works

of Him who sent Me. Night is coming, when no 

man can work."

John 9:4   

 

I've been sitting here for well over an hour staring at the computer screen, looking at my notes, bursting in tears, rubbing my head. I took a break and went downstairs to Daniel's dungeon, and I actually made him laugh over some silly antics with the little Grinch I gave him a couple of years ago. I'm seriously thinking of writing Grinch tales, under another name, as that one is already taken. I imagine if I publish the stories I'll have to design an entirely new character for the stories, but then it wouldn't be the same. Daniel's been having some down days, but as he was cackling over some lunacy, he said "Laughter really is good medicine." That's one for Solomon!

Last night I returned the call of a friend, who obviously was having a hard day, but I made her and her aunt laugh too. Kinda sad that I can't seem to make myself laugh. Not at the moment, no. Usually I laugh all the time. I never get bored, as I can break the monotony of work remembering silly things. I don't know, maybe it's recent events still heavily on my mind, seeing photos, thoughts being revived as I write. Who knows. One thing is certain, this melancholy will pass.

The world seems to be turning upside down, but not in an altogether bad way. I remember when the disciples came alive in Christ once the early church got kick started by the arrival of Holy Spirit. Jesus' final words spoken to the disciples as recorded in Matthew 28:19-20 were: 

"Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age."

But then, He told them to wait for the gift of Holy Spirit:

"But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth." (Acts 1:8) 

Jesus instructed His disciples to go, but He knew they would need power in order to work effectively. He knew they were facing more than mere flesh and blood persecution, rather they were up against a spiritual battle, so He prepared them for it by giving them Holy Spirit, our Comforter. When Jesus appeared to His disciples after the resurrection, He breathed on them to receive His Spirit, but later He gave them instructions to wait. Imagine how they felt cooped up in that room waiting, anticipating, not knowing what was coming next?! On the Day of Pentecost the wait was over, and from that moment on, the church was birthed, and lives were changed. The book of Acts takes us on the journey of salvation, promised first to the Jews then to the Gentiles (Romans 1:16). Jesus met Saul of Tarsus, a Pharisee, en-route to Damascus to persecute the Jews of the Way, as believers in Christ were known. Jesus hand-selected Saul, later renamed Paul by Jesus, to take the Gospel to the Gentiles. As the Gospel story progresses, the disciples and many followers, including Paul the Apostle, were martyred for the faith. Only John the apostle survived, after enduring several attempts to kill him, but in the end he was exiled to Patmos, where he received The Revelation of Christ, describing the imminent return of Jesus to rule and reign as King.

So why am I saying all this again, other than to testify of Jesus, because I dearly love to talk about my Best Friend, Savior, Lord, the Love of my life. Jesus also shared other words with the disciples and the crowds who flocked to hear His words, be healed, delivered, to be fed, and many accepted Him and His message of the Kingdom of God. In Matthew, chapters 5 - 7 Jesus sat on a hill and taught a large crowd that came to be known as The Sermon on the Mount. He taught and spoke in parables, as I have mentioned before. In chapter 7, Jesus spoke of the "narrow way," the road that leads to eternal life (verses 13-14), and He said that many false prophets would come in the end times. The way to identify true followers from those who walk in darkness is that those who walk in the light, as He is in the light, always bear fruit. The sad thing is that many will be deceived regardless. In verses 21 -23 Jesus goes on to say:

"Not everyone who says to Me, 'Lord, Lord,' shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. Many will say to Me in that day, 'Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?' And then I will declare to them, 'I ever knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!'"

A couple of days I shared the parable of the sower and the seed, and how easily it is to fall by the wayside when there is no depth in our relationship with Christ. In fact, there is no relationship, because He is not Lord of our lives. I spoke of examining my life to see if there is anything that stands between me and the Lord. I want to bear much fruit for His kingdom and for His glory. The church teaches once saved always saved, but they fail to explain what being "saved" involves completely, and that discipleship and commitment, turning from the sinful life is required. These verses are not the only warnings in scripture about salvation not being "cheap grace," or what some have termed a "get out of hell free card." A life hidden in Christ brings surrender, absolute surrender to Him. Giving Him all of us, just as He did when He gave His life for ours. As the end times progress, more persecution will come, and, as sad as it sounds, more martyrs on American soil. Just what happened recently tells all. But such martyrdom is being seen all over the globe. It's when it hits home that people sit up and take notice.

Romans 6:1-2 begins with these words: "What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound? Certainly not! How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it?" Later, the writer of Hebrews puts it this way: "For if we sin willfully after we have received the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, but a certain fearful expectation of judgment, and fiery indignation which will devour the adversaries." (Hebrews 10:26-27) These words are so frightful, and should put the fear of God's wrath in us. Proverbs says in chapter 9, verse 10: "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding." The fear Solomon is speaking about is an awe and reverence of our Holy God of Israel. It is not His intention for us to be afraid to approach Him. When He created the world He wanted relationship with us. But to continue to disrespect His free gift of grace by faith in His Son, brings His wrath. 

This is something we must think about, consider long and hard, and decide whom we will serve. We can choose where we spend eternity.

Day 258 Listen...What Do You Hear?

 

9/15/2025 

"Jesus Christ has brought every need, every joy,

every gratitude, every hope of men before God. He

accompanies us, and brings us in the presence of God."  

Dietrich Bonhoeffer

"No man comes unto the Father, but by Me."  

John 14:6

 

Do you every wonder why I use teddy bears or small children as the images for my posts? Teddy bears are especially dear to me, because I so longed to have a special one when I was a child. I have no memory of a teddy bear, except the one my Uncle Pete won for me at a carnival or fair, but I don't think the teddy bear loved me back. I remember that Uncle Pete had a little wind up donkey toy that I so wanted as my own, but it never happened. He did, however, gift me with his old RCA Music collection of classical musicians. At a very young age I was drawn to music by Mozart, Beethoven, Tchaikovsky, and later Rachmaninoff stole my heart. Sadly, this collection was stolen as was another treasured album by Andy Williams. Seems strange for a young school girl to love classical music, especially when my daddy is a bluegrass enthusiastic, but we shared our time together too. He would have me sit in the basement for hours listening to one in particular. I laughed, and it made him happy.  I also loved reading -  Homer's Iliad and Odyssey, War and Peace, Anna Karenina and other classics by Tolstoy, books by Dostoevsky. But I was very well-read as a young grade school girl, and I carried on the tradition with my children. When we moved, I donated the collection to the church school. I sometimes wish I still had them. 

On Christmas of 1959 I received my first Bible, which I still treasure and guard, as it is falling apart from love and use, and that same Christmas I received a stuffed Lassie dog. I loved that dog almost as much as I loved my Bible. I could hug him, tell him anything, and he was my friend and loved me. He is the first toy, other than the donkey, that I absolutely loved. Why I gave him away, I often ask myself, but at the time, it seemed the right thing to do, or rather, what my mother wanted.

Over the years I have accumulated many stuffed animal friends, and as you will note when you enter into my home, I still have many in plain sight dancing about the rooms. I guess they were my go to substitutes when I couldn't find love and acceptance or felt afraid as a young child, and it grew over the years. Then, as a puppeteer working in children's church and with at-risk kids, my hurts were soothed by "hugs." It was a vehicle through which I could reach a disturbed child, even my own. In fact it works so effectively that my son's counselor is interested in meeting one of my personalities. If you don't hear from me, look for me in the rubber room!!

Children are so fragile, and even those with behavior problems or trauma, can be reached using this type of therapy. I believe I have mentioned this in a previous blog, my thoughts of having a ministry of some sort using these survival skills. I guess I feel the need to talk about it sometimes. I'd love to have the opportunity to help one of the dear ones. Even adults, like me, respond, find help and more importantly, healing and closure. But enough of that subject. 

Yesterday, I spoke about the parable of the sower and the seed, and how every Christian, myself included, needs to search our hearts and come to the place where we hear God's voice on the direction He has for us in this hour, this season of time. I've shared profusely that God is asking me about motives of my heart. It's not that I am not totally sold out for Him, because I am, but yet, when I get up in the morning, even though I think of Him first, I thank Him for a new day, even if I don't feel like it. I wake up with eyes to see, ears to hear, a voice to sing, a heart to pray, to sunlight or rain. I have a cat that needs me, well he needs food and tolerates me. I have so much. My younger son is here, so we have each other after so many years alone, for me. I just saw my family whom I'd not seen since the last funeral, others it has been since childhood. I am here in Virginia for a reason, and God is helping me with that one. I just need to sit tight and listen.

As I examine myself, though, I am asking if the first cup of coffee, feeding my cat first thing, saying Good Morning and stopping to laugh with my son, if, perhaps, they could be distractions or worse idols in the way of meeting with Abba sooner?! I pray not, because He is everything to me, and I don't want anyone or any thing to ever come between us. But, it's worth considering. Are too many early morning prayer meetings taking the place of quiet time first and foremost with Father God? Is my 5 minute devotional with Pastor Jack Hibbs more important than talking with Abba? 

I am also sensing, in the Spirit, troubling matters regarding distractions in ministries. Too much time being spent on building one's church, not going after the 99, overly priced Christian concerts. Too much for this brain to absorb. So, I'm taking "5" and praying. Ephesians 6:13 tells us having done all to stand our ground, and that is what I am doing in the company of my fluffy friends, as long as God allows.  

Day 257 To the Death

 

9/14/2025

"Do not be overcome by evil, but 

overcome evil with good."

  Romans 12:21 

 

Last week was one of the most difficult ones of my lifetime, because tragedy happened to one so young - Charlie Kirk was only 31 years old, assassinated on 9/10/2025. But this week, a continuation of last week,  attention is amplifying further into multiple national and international tributes to this young man for his stand for freedom and his voice for Christ. He wanted to be remembered for his courage and faith, and he most definitely will.

I remember the shock of my life on November 22, 1963, when John F Kennedy was assassinated in a motorcade; I was 13, a young teenager, but I respected and admired this courageous man. He was only 46 years old, our youngest President. On April 4, 1968, Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated at the age of 39, and two months later, on June 5, 1968, Robert Kennedy was assassinated at the age of 42. Three giants who touched my young life forever. I believed in the message that brought, especially Dr. King, and I continue to speak of him often as an influence in my life, although I was only 17 years old when he and Senator Kennedy died. Senator Kennedy was a Presidential hopeful when he died.

I attended a live event (online) at the Kennedy Center in Washington DC last night with 85 members of Congress, as well as other members of government, present paying their homage to Charlie and their support to Erika, his widow and their two small children, and to the Turning Point USA staff. Sean Feucht led worship. He was a close friend of Charlie's, whom he met when his friends and church turned their backs on him when he decided to run for a government seat in California. Apparently Charlie heard about it and reached out to Sean and encouraged him. Isn't it amazing how God places people into our lives at just the right moments. My contact is merely through prayer groups, but I feel as if I know him. When he spoke, he made us all proud, because he was not ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and he knew the only answer is Jesus. I pray for Erika and the children in this time of deep grief, and for their parents, hers and Charlie's. I cannot imagine the depth of the sorrow. I continue to struggle with the crushing blow to my gut and pain in my heart. I have experienced my own grief in loss, but nothing of this magnitude. I think of Erika so often throughout the day, as I remain in disbelief of this whole thing. O, Abba Father, please hold them close, and bring them Your peace, shalom. Robert Kennedy shared that one time Charlie asked him if he was afraid to die. His response to Charlie was that there were worse things than dying. We have comfort and great joy in knowing that Charlie is in Heaven with Jesus, but we will miss him.

Our message this morning was taken from Mark 4:1-20 - the story of the sower and the seed. It seems appropriate, well-timed, I feel, another intervention as people are wondering "where do we go from here?" For weeks I have been sharing with my "audience" that in my quiet time, Holy Spirit has been shining a light on the motives of my heart. Are they pure or do I have a different "agenda" or "take" on things. I can honestly say that I ask God for His will alone to be done on earth, as it is in heaven, in my life. I want none of me. As pastor shared this passage of scripture, he asked us to consider where we stand in our relationship with the Lord, especially at this time of crisis, as each day becomes a little darker. But then Jesus did say this would happen. Listen to the words of Jesus as He shared this parable:

"'Listen! Behold, a sower went out to sow. And it happened, as he sowed, that some seed fell by the wayside, and the birds of the air came and devoured it. Some fell on stony ground where it did not have much earth; and immediately it sprang up because it had no depth of earth. But when the sun was up it was scorched, and because it had not root it withered away. And some seed fell among thorns; and the thorns grew up and choked it, and it yielded no crop. But other seed feel on good ground and yielded a crop that sprang up, increased and produced; some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some a hundred.' And He said to them, 'He who has ears to hear, let him hear!'" (Mark 4:3-9) 

When Jesus was alone with His disciples, they asked Him the meaning of the parable (see verses 1-20). Jesus was always patient in explaining, as when we have questions, we should always ask Him, and most definitely not run to unreliable sources or those who would sow fear or discord. Everything we need can be found in scripture, but we need to spend time alone with Him, abiding in the secret place, in order to grow in the truth which brings real peace, God's shalom peace. 

In the parable, the sower is the one who shares the word of God. The type of soil represents the condition of one's heart. When a person first hears the Gospel of Jesus Christ, they may appear to receive the word, as they were listening intently, but the soil of the heart is not prepared for truth, so the enemy, satan,  immediately snatches it away. The seed or word that falls on stony ground represents a heart that may hear the word and receive it gladly, yet they have no root. They don't apply themselves to studying the Bible, attending services regularly, so they never become grounded on the word. Persecution comes in or someone may challenge them or treat them differently, but alone, he has no strength, so he stumbles and falls. The seed that falls on soil where thorns sprout up are those who hear the word, but when troubles of the become too heavy, such as is happening now in our world, almost daily with increased murders, crimes, anger, hatred rising up, discouragement comes in, and it chokes out the word, and there is no fruit. Apparently, there has not been discipleship and regular Bible study and application of the word. Faith is weak, and fear sets in. But then, there is the seed that falls on prepared soil, hearts rooted and grounded in the word. This person is active in church attendance, Bible study, growth in personal time with Jesus, growing in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ, interacting with others, and yielding fruit. Jesus said we would be known by our fruit, and by our love for one another. 

Because the prophetic time clock, as I like to call it, is ticking, and the time of Jesus' return is imminent, we need to be busy about His business. It is not a time to fall into fear or despair or silence. It is a time to be bold to speak the truth of God's word, and it is a time to examine our hearts to see where we stand in the parable just described. How is our faith? Are we wavering or standing strong? Are we ready to meet our Master? I know that is my heart's only desire. To be who I am supposed to be, bringing honor and glory to His Name. The best way we can share Christ is by sharing our testimony, and by engaging in honest conversations in love. Never shy away from the truth. I say this to myself as well. We must be bold, and Charlie Kirk is a righteous example of a man who spoke the truth boldly, with compassion, and in love. May we follow his example and go and do likewise.  

Day 256 Contending for the Faith

 

9/13/2025

 "When prayer is a struggle, do not worry about the prayers that you

cannot pray. You yourself are a prayer to God at that moment.

All that is within you cries out to Him. And He hears all the pleas

that your suffering soul and body are making to Him with

groanings which cannot be uttered."

O. Hallesby

 

Today marks the 102nd birthday of my daddy, had he lived - John Marshall Cabaniss. He was 89 years old when he passed away on 12/20/2012. Mama preceded him in death on 12/20/2009, at the age of 82 - Margaret Louise Rowland Cabaniss. It seemed rather fitting, perhaps prophetic, that they should depart this world three years apart on the same day. I have always felt that mama was waiting for him at the gates of Heaven, excited to introduce him to Jesus. It's just my thought, but it seems appropriate to me, at least.

My daddy had three sisters, all have passed away, but I have cousins remaining. Sadly, I have been unable to gather them together, but it has become a priority of mine. Today, however, my mama's two sisters and one remaining brother got together with the cousins for a little reunion in North Carolina close to the Assisted Living Facility where mama's oldest remaining sister (well into her 90's) lives. Since moving back home to Virginia in October 2021, I have only visited with family at nursing homes and funeral parlors. This is why we decided to have a family reunion, as we didn't want to "meet up" again for less than pleasant reasons. Some of the cousins and I were chatting, and it appears that I am the third oldest cousin, so it seems that I have seniority at the ripe old age of 75. I guess that accounts for something.

It was a nice time, although I ate the wrong foods and am paying for it severely today. Still, all in all, it is a small price to pay to spend quality time with my family whom I missed for the 35 years I lived in Northern New Mexico. I hope we do it again before too long. I have been meeting with members of my high school graduation class of 1968 for several years for the same reasons - life is brief. Over the years, we would get together whenever I visited my parents, but now I get to see them every three months. We will be meeting this Thursday at one of local restaurants, because we must have food! We always have a good time of fellowship, but I need to learn to mingle a little better. It seems that we become clannish and hang with those we know better, same at family reunions. Why is that? Can it be the sheer number of years makes us reticent? Maybe I'll address that question.

It was good for me to take time away from the prayer closet and prayer calls for just a day. This week has been a particularly difficult one, and my emotions are tied up in knots, yet, although my heart is broken,  the joy of the Lord truly has been my strength. 

Days are passing by so quickly, just as the day dawns, it quickly fades into the afternoon and evening, leaving little accomplished, at least in my mind's eye. Today marks the 708th day of the war in Israel, and another surge of the battle is mounting up, as the innocent civilians are being moved from harm's way. The United Nations General Assembly started up this week in New York City, adding additional tension against Israel. Plus all the additional "wars" brewing on the streets of the nation and world. But then, there exists daily massacres in Nigeria and the Congo, and that's two places. Evil is virtually everywhere, and Christians are dying daily for their faith. Now it is coming to the America. It is a difficult thing to watch, and sometimes all I can do is cry out to God "Help!" When does enough ever become enough? 

My little devotional, 60 Days of Prayer, always seems to hit me where I am at, as the expression goes. Today's short reminder is entitled Running the Race Marked Out for You. It is based on scripture found in Hebrews 12:1-2: "Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." This scripture encourages us to continue to hold fast to our faith, setting aside any doubts, distractions, any besetting sins, anything that burdens your soul, and focus on Christ and Christ alone. Do you realize that the words "who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross" is about "us," those who follow Him, who call Him Lord? He was willing to take the shame of the death of the cross, the bear all the sins - past, present, and future - to ransom us from death. He loved us that much to leave His position in Heaven, to come down to earth, and take our place. I invite you to close your eyes and think about that for a moment. Look at His face, and remember.

Jude 1:3 exhorts us: "Beloved, while I was very diligent to write to you concerning our common salvation, I found it necessary to write to you exhorting you to contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints. For certain men have crept in unnoticed, who long ago were marked out for this condemnation, ungodly men, who turn the grace of our God into lewdness and deny the only Lord God and our Lord Jesus Christ." 

These are indeed perilous days, and the enemy of our souls is getting desperate to silence God's voice, as the assassination of our beloved Charlie Kirk demonstrated. But truth never dies, as one pastor pointed out, not even when someone is viciously and cowardly shot in the throat. I never had the privilege of knowing Charlie personally, but he was part of Zoom prayer call vigils of which I was a part. He continues to be a shining example of God's grace and faith in Jesus Christ his Savior and Lord. His testimony and the work began in him will not be silenced! May all praise, honor and glory be unto our Lord and our God.

Let's keep our eyes on the Commander of the Armies of Heaven, and cut off the head of the snake! That was God's mandate to me, and I now share with you. Continue to fight the good fight of faith until we see Him coming in the clouds!  

Day 255 If...Then

 

9/12/2025

"IF My people who are called by My name will humble

themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn

from their wicked ways, THEN I will hear from heaven

and will forgive their sin and health their land."  

2 Chronicles 7:14

 

When I was growing up my mama faithfully took me to church. If we didn't have a ride, or if daddy was working, she would "bum" a ride, as she called it, but she made sure that every time the door of the church was opened, we were there. My daddy didn't attend church services when we were growing up, but something changed when his first grandchild, my daughter, was born. I can't remember exactly when he began to go to church with mama, but he was faithful the rest of his life. One thing my daddy taught me was that my word was my bond, that a person could depend on my word. He taught me to respect others, and he taught me generosity, if we had little to share. My mother would say, "We throw another potato into the pot." Sometimes potato soup was what we had, but it always became a feast with mama's biscuits, and she was always ready to share.

God's word teaches the same values that my parents instilled in me when I was growing up, as well as my siblings. We learned respect, honor, and friendship. We learned to keep promises, no matter the cost. God keeps His promises, and according to scripture "For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us." (2 Corinthians 1:20) 

The above words from 2 Corinthians 7:14 were spoken to Solomon by God after the dedication of the Temple. It has been quoted so often, but I wonder if those who read it really pay attention to the words. God is saying to His chosen people, Israel when He said "If MY people," but we can claim the words as Christians, because we have been grafted by God into the family, and now because of our belief in Christ, we too have been part of His people (Romans 11; Romans 1:16). When God is speaking, He often will say, "If...then..." I have mentioned this many times. So God is saying that IF My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, THEN I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land. The first things His people are told to do is to Repent! That was the message of John the Baptist, and it was the first words spoken by Jesus when He began His ministry. When we use this scripture, somehow it seems as it is being spoken more to the non-Christian than the believer, but God includes us. Hebrews 13:8 says that Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever. The word of God is His word, so the promises of God that began in Genesis and to through Revelation, are relevant for today. 

God continues speaking to Solomon saying that IF you continue to walk in His ways, keep His laws, THEN the throne of David would be established forever. God expects us to follow His law, be committed to His call, follow Christ, who gave His life for us. When Jesus died He split the veil in the temple that separated man from God, so we could approach the throne humbly seeking His grace to help in time of need. But we must come low, humbly, recognizing that we need to repent for ourselves, our nation, our families, seeking Holy Spirit to show us anything that separates us from God.

Our nation is in trouble. We are in a spiritual war, and we must fight with the spiritual weapons of our warfare. We need revival and reformation, turning back to God, beginning with the church, because judgment begins in the house of the Lord (1 Peter 4:17). I heard a pastor say that just as the early church was birthed on the blood of the martyred apostles, so revival will be awakened or re-birthed by the blood of our first martyr, Charlie Kirk. The devil has overplayed his shot. He has unleashed such a passion, fueled the flame of revival in the hearts of the generations of young people that Charlie taught the truth of truth, God's word. So many people are paying tribute to Charlie, and his wife, Erika spoke to the nation tonight, to all who love Him. Such love, commitment, and resolve to continue making the ministry of Turning Point USA even greater. It is so true that God will take evil and turn it for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purposes (Romans 8:28). And that is what Charlie did. He served others just as God said, "If you want to be great in God's Kingdom, learn to be a servant to all." (Matthew 20:16)

Let's begin today by humbling ourselves, asking Holy Spirit to search our hearts, clean our minds, and repent for ourselves and on behalf of others. Seeking Him for the next step in the journey He has for us. As Paul the Apostle was locked up in Rome, waiting his death, he spoke these words: "For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing." (2 Timothy 4:6-8) Charlie has finished his race, and he kept the faith, and all of Heaven is rejoicing, but a child of God has come home. I know he heard the words, "Well done, My good and faithful servant, enter in." I live for that day!