Day 17 Waiting

 

1/17/2026

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

they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run

and  not grow weary, they shall walk and not faint."

Isaiah 40:31

 

No one likes to wait when they are waiting for something to happen. This is just human nature. We are naturally impatient, and society and culture has taught us how to expect, and often demand, an answer right now! But then, that's not God's way, and as His children we have learned that lesson if we are walking with Him daily. His timing is not like ours. In fact scripture says: "But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day." (2 Peter 3:8). He also says, “'For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,' says the Lord. 'For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts.'" (Isaiah 55:8-9).

I just finished reading the story of Joseph and how his brothers old him into slavery, and he was taken to Egypt for a period of time, where he grew in strength and power, as God prepared him for the plans He had for Joseph. In the end Joseph could have blamed his brothers for doing this to him, and he could have become angry with God, as people often do. But, Joseph's response to his brothers was: "But as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive." (Genesis 50:20). 

In beginning to read the story of how God prepared Moses for the next leg of the journey for the nation of Israel, he had a considerable waiting time himself. When Moses was born, the Pharaoh of Egypt was killing all the baby boys being born to the people of Israel, because he feared they were increasing so rapidly in numbers that they would become stronger than them. The midwives feared God, so they did not follow the king's demands to kill all the baby boys. Then later, when Moses was born, his mother, knowing that God had given her a special child, hid Moses away, and he was raised by one of Pharaoh's daughters. God is so good that Moses' mother was chosen to care for him, plus she was paid to do so. God's plans are certainly way above our finite reasoning. Later on, Moses flees Egypt after killing an Egyptian who was hurting a fellow Israelite, and he ends up on the backside of the desert tending sheep for 40 years. During this time God was preparing Moses for His special plan as deliverer of His chosen people from Egypt. And as we know from history, this lasted another 40 years as they had to wander in the wilderness, learning another valuable lesson in trusting God's plan. 

I have been waiting for some answers recently, and today no matter which way I turned, what scriptures or devotional I read, even in my Shabbat sermon, the message for me was the same - Isaiah 40:31, as noted above, to wait on the Lord. This same message, once I thought about is the correct answer for a prayer request I recently received that I have been praying about for another. I knew there was something I was missing, and at just the right time, God's special and unique timing, the answer springs up not once, but thrice! He is so faithful to us. I even found the following word on my calendar from E. M. Bounds:

 "God is always within call, it is true; His ear is ever attentive to the cry of His child, but we can never get to know Him if we use the vehicle of prayer as we use the telephone - for a few words of hurried conversation. Intimacy requires development. We can never know God as it is our privilege to know Him by brief repetitions that are requests for personal favors and nothing more. That is not the way in which we can come into communication with heaven's King." 

God is never far away, and as this quotation says, He is always within earshot. We are the ones who fail to take the time to sit quietly, spend the time waiting, and we do not listen for His response. Sometimes it takes a while. As I mentioned, I'm waiting for an answer to some questions, and it's been over a month, but during that time I have watched Him and listened to Him in the prayer meetings I attend, the messages I listen to, and the scriptures I read, and I am hearing His voice, feeling His Presence, as I wait for specific instructions and answers. My job is to trust Him. So I will.

Day 16 Imitate Christ

 

1/16/2026

"Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ."

1 Corinthians 11:1

 

There will always be someone who tells you there's a better way, or a new way, but there's only Christ's way. As the days grow shorter and shorter, nearer and nearer, there are so many tell tale signs of the imminent return of Jesus. That certainty of scriptural truth makes many people anxious, afraid, and others feel it is not going to happen anytime soon, so why be concerned. Others think everything is hype and lies, because that's what the enemy wants us to believe. That philosophy dates all the way back to the Garden of Eden when the "snake" told Eve that God didn't really mean they would die, and yet people die every day. The length of a person's life was rather long back in early Biblical days as scripture reports that  Methuselah lived to be 969 years, Noah 950 years, and Adam, 930 years. My oldest living client was 106, but there was one 116 years of age. The health of my client was good physically with the exception of poor vision and hearing. But these examples are extremely rare, but then a deeper study may prove that more such exceptions exist.  We all dream of a long, good life, I imagine. As for me I dream of a life well lived, and I definitely want to accomplish the purpose God put me here on earth to do. Aside from the purpose we all have which is to bring Him glory, honor, and praise.

Jesus warned us in scripture, as did Peter and Paul, that men would have itching ears desiring to hear and believe only what they feel is really truth. Jesus warned that in the last days many would come in His Name claiming to be Christ. We certainly saw this when Charles Manson made the statement that he was Christ and Satan, or perhaps he merely inferred it; nevertheless, there have been others like Jim Jones who led many gullible people to the slaughter. False shepherds, according to the prophet Jeremiah, who care more about building their egos than feeding and tending the flock, are leading many to go astray, as sheep without a caring shepherd will do. 

Each day brings an interesting change. The scripture says that the gift of speaking in tongues is given by Holy Spirit. The Apostle Paul speaks of this gift that he himself was given. We know that on the day of Pentecost 50 days after Jesus ascended to Heaven, that all in the upper room were filled with the Spirit and spoke in tongues. After that many believed, because they heard the gospel preached in their own language. Everything God does is done decently and in order, because He is not a God of confusion. Recently someone sent me a video of a sermon, and when it came on there was a woman speaking unintelligible  words to a group of people, which they would then repeat. This process was repeated over and over. That was when I texted my friend to ask if this woman was teaching others to speak in tongues, and she said "yes, and it's perfectly normal." I did not respond, as the Bible does not teach this technique. In fact there is not a technique. It is a gift given by Holy Spirit. This doesn't surprise me, really, because over the years I have noticed many troubling ways of teaching that do not follow a Biblical order. I have learned to stick to the book, which as many may recall, is what Billy Graham adamantly recommended.

When Paul wrote to the church in Corinth it was in response to a message he had received about divisions in the church. It seems that members were squabbling over whose baptism was better, or so it sounds. One would say "I am of Paul," another "I am of Apollos," or "I am of Cephas," or "I am of Christ."  Paul's response was very clear: "Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Or were you baptized in the name of Paul?" (1 Corinthians 1:12-13). This isn't the first time that Paul would have to settle disputes in the churches, and all through the ages there's always someone introducing a new idea or another step into the already complete gospel of Jesus Christ. Romans 10:13 makes things very simple when it comes to the truth about the Gospel: "For whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved." I think that Paul put it quite nicely in 1 Corinthians 2:2, and I am of the same opinion: "For I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified."

One thing the Lord has spoken directly to my heart over and over in recent days, and actually years ago, and that is to keep my eyes on Him, only Him. We are told in Galatians 2:20, "I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me." Colossians 3:16-17 adds: "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him."

Much confusion has crept into the church especially regarding Israel and God's end time plans. He has never abandoned His chosen people, and He never would. But, as I have reminded many times, we who believe in the message of Jesus Christ and have accepted God's precious gift of salvation through Jesus, His Son, are now Abraham's children also. We have been grafted into the family and God is making us One New Man. We are to stand with Israel and pray for her, but many are confused about this important fact. I will speak of this another time.

Paul tells us to imitate Christ, be clothed in Him, because there's a world of people who do not know Him yet as Savior and Lord, and we are to be His workmanship. Follow His example, and complete His mandate to go into all the world and make disciples. To do that we have to know what the scriptures teach us, how Jesus taught us.

How do we respond to others? Paul puts it nicely in Colossians 4:2-6:

"Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving; meanwhile praying also for us, that God would open to us a door for the word, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in chains, that I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak. Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time. Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one."

In order to do this, we must know the Word of God and the teachings of Christ. We must have a daily time along with Christ, sitting at His feet, reading and studying His word, and learning to truly know Him by spending quality time listening for His voice. This is the abundant life that gives peace that transcends all understanding. 

Day 15 Search Me

 

1/15/2026

 "Search me, O God, and know my heart;

try me, and know my thoughts; and

see if there is any wicked way in me and

lead me in the way everlasting."

Psalm 139:23-24

 

Today marks Day 12 of our 21 days of prayer for repentance and seeking God for His mercy and grace during this time of great need in our nation and our world, beginning with self-examining our own lives before God. Today I received an invitation to join a group in Australia for prayer with the focus on abortion. Other pastors, ministries, and countries are following this leading from Holy Spirit. Today I heard Jack Hibbs speaking about the persecuted Christians in Africa who have been massacred for their belief in Christ. He said that every Sunday morning, regardless of the weather, they get dressed in their best clothes, and some have to walk many miles to church, knowing that they could be killed at any moment, just as other villages have been invaded by jihadist terrorists in several villages, perhaps even their own previously. Regardless of what they may or may not have suffered, they go, because they are committed to Jesus Christ who gave Himself for them, and they fully surrender their lives to His service. I have written about the persecuted church myself, many times, about how easily they forgive those who have harmed them, left them for dead, after pillaging their villages, burning their homes, and murdering their family members right before their eyes. They have nothing in the way of earthly goods, and yet, they risk their lives to attend church services and to spread the gospel to others. Jesus said those who are last in men's eyes are first in the Kingdom of God. The people of Africa and other persecuted countries truly know how to love and glory and honor to God for their salvation. And they are the first to rally to the cause of others who are in need. We have so much to learn from them.

 Tonight in my online Harvest Group we studied "God's Purpose for You: A Day in the Life of Jesus," based on our message shared by Pastor Jonathan Laurie on Sunday. In the study we looked at our purpose or reason for being based on Jesus as our example. Hebrews 4:15 says, "For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin." God sent Jesus, His only begotten Son into our sinful world to ransom us from death and an eternity in hell. God so desired to have fellowship with us that He made a way through Jesus. God gave each of us a plan for our lives that works with others in the body of Christ to fulfill His mission on this earth. His mission is that all men come to the saving knowledge of God through Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:11 says, "But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you." Because of Christ's Spirit dwelling within us, we have the power and the authority through His Name to complete the mission which is stated clearly in Matthew 28:19-20: "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."

Following Christ, surrendering to God's will, brings opposition just as it did for Jesus. After being baptized by John the Baptist, the Holy Spirit descended upon Jesus, and "a voice came from heaven which said, 'You are My beloved Son; in You I am well pleased.'" (Luke 3:22). Immediately following this Holy Spirit led Jesus into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil (Luke 4:1-15). After defeating the devil in the wilderness, overcoming temptation, Jesus began His ministry by returning to Galilee under the power and authority of Holy Spirit where He taught in synagogues. When He went to Nazareth, His home town, He announced who He was and His mission when He read the scroll of Isaiah in the synagogue, announcing that He was the Messiah (Luke 4:18-19). The people recognized that He spoke with authority, but knowing He was the son of a carpenter, did not recognize His identify or receive Him as the Messiah, so they accused Him of blasphemy and tried to throw Jesus over a cliff. But Jesus said "Not happening today!" and He walked right past them, setting off to preach in Capernaum. Jesus didn't skip a beat, but He continued on in His mission, sent by God to the lost sheep of Israel. Over the years of His ministry He met with much opposition, but He continued with God's plan, obeying His Father's voice and not man's right up to His death on the cross. So we must be faithful to continue in His example.

In our walk we will face opposition, often from those you least expect it. I know that as I live out my purpose God has for me I have openly, and behind my back, faced cruel and unkind remarks. I have even been questioned by my own children whom I taught faith in Christ from birth. I was not always a perfect example, as I made many mistakes along the way, but my children witnessed my steadfast faith and commitment to follow Him and serve Him, surrendering my will to His in obedience. For me, there is no other life that satisfies. I was listening to Russell Brand giving his testimony on Turning Point USA America Fest, and he shared that he had tried every lifestyle including sex, drugs, alcohol, parties, and fame with all the glamour and "things" it offers, but he found that he was still empty and void of joy. Now, he has found new life in Christ, and he openly shares his faith with everyone. He can preach a sermon with the best of them, and his life has been transformed. And before he witnesses, he always drops to his knees in prayer, seeking the face of God. It is so wonderful to see famous people coming to Christ, sharing their testimonies, especially with the younger generation who are so hungry for more of God. Truly God is moving in our youth, especially in the young men, who will be the leaders of their families. Praise God for His marvelous work!

At this time it is so important to live our lives wholly for God and in holiness. This is why it is so important that we make it a daily habit of prayer, asking Holy Spirit to examine our hearts, fill us fresh with His Spirit, and guard our speech and habits. We are to be examples of Christ before a lost world, and they are watching us to see if we are sincere - if we are doing the Word and not just speaking it! Selah.

"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God" (Romans 12:1-2)

Day 14 Call to Prayer and Repentance

 

1/14/2026

"In prayer the Church has received power to rule

the world. The Church is always the little flock.

But if it would stay together on its knees, it would 

dominate world politics - from the prayer room.

O Hallesby

"All continued with one accord in prayer."

Acts 1:14

 

Yesterday I received three messages from Franklin Graham about the call for America to pray at 12 noon January 14 to repent for the Church, our nation, and all the events rapidly happening today. This evening I heard Jack Hibbs, who had joined with Franklin Graham in this call to prayer, say that this will be a regular Wednesday call to repentance. Today when the alarm was sounding I was out with my sister running errands, but while she drove, I prayed. No matter where we are or what we're doing, we can always pray. Many times I have written about the subject of repentance of the church for being so involved with their own agenda that they fail to realize the importance of world events and the need to educate the people. The church has wrongly believed that politics has no place in the church; however, it is not politics. It is government. It becomes politics when human ambitions for power are put into play. Yes, they are involved, but the Word says that the government is upon the shoulders of Jesus. Jesus says He will build His church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. Just as Replacement Theology is being taught from the pulpit, so is this apathetic approach to what is happening in our nation and world, as everything is prophetically significant. People must be ready to meet Jesus when He returns. He does not want a halfhearted gospel message. He wants the whole counsel of God taught. And please, do not get offended and say "what about separation of church and state?" The First Amendment reads "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion." What this means is that government is prevented from interfering with religious practices. Thomas Jefferson called it a "wall of separation" preventing government from "creating a national church or favoring one religion, while protecting citizens' right to worship freely." When will people stop listening to what others say and read for themselves?! This refers to practically every opinion spoken today. No wonder in Revelation 2 and 3 when Jesus is speaking to the churches He told the church at Laodicea that they were lukewarm. Not a good place to be. The focus has to be on what God says in His Word. When walking this earth, Jesus always told anyone who questioned His motives that He only did what His Father said to do or to say. He was all about His Father's will. And so must we be about His business.

Our world is rapidly changing, and it will continue to do so. Right now I am participating in a Daniel Fast which lasts for 21 days, and I noticed today that a local church, the one I am joining in this fast for prayer and repentance, is fasting social media. I wish I could stay clear of emails, zoom calls and every bit of it, but sadly I have to keep in the loop, because I am involved with the calls to Israel, and I have an online group event weekly. Otherwise, I'd love to forego glimpsing controversy and opinions for an extended time. For quite some time, however, I have been doing a half-fast of deleting repetitive emails for prayer updates. I have been gleaning and deleting. I read only what I need to read, as I usually know things before the news. I also avoid secular news, and I would not be caught watching a certain talk show which is part of the problem of causing chaos, confusion, anger, and people jumping to wrong conclusions without checking the facts. Our world seems to be going down the tubes, and no one wants to talk and fewer to listen. This extends to the church.

I know that it may seem as if I am being harsh and judgmental, but it is not so. I am begging for fellow believers in Christ to wake up and pay attention. I attempt to call attention to the truth of the Word, as we don't have any time to waste. Things are heating up, and time is limited. I truly feel that way. The only person I am judging is myself, and I repent for not standing up and speaking up much earlier. I have been speaking out about abortion since I was in my 20's, and I have always loved missions and wanted to be a foreign missionary myself. But as the Lord spoke so clearly to me recently, He placed me here in the United States and in Virginia for a reason. While it has always been my desire to live and minister in Africa, and although I'd love to be in Israel, this is my mission field for now, for this time. Our State has much to repent about, abortion being number one. It breaks my heart to hear that 62% of the citizens think it is just fine to kill babies. What ever happened to human dignity and respect for life. I don't understand it. I never will. 

In sharing it is my hope that whoever reads this post will hear what I am saying and pray for your own nation or country, your church, and your family. We have not only lost our First Love, but we have turned our backs on God. It is time to repent and pray for revival and reformation. Even so, Lord, come quickly. 

Day 13 What's Up Today

 

1/13/2026

"One can learn more from life's trials

than from its triumphs."

Daily Walk

 

Wow! Is this a word right when I needed to see it! This morning, as I was sitting in my rocking chair, praying about recent events, not really certain what to do about anything, I cried out to the Lord, using those same words, "I don't know what to do, Lord. Please help me." Right then, my phone rang in response to my plea to God! I don't think His answer could have been any clearer, and honestly, I wasn't expecting it to happen like that or that quickly. I've been laboring over some health issues for many weeks, not doubting God's ability to hear me or answer. But for some reason, I had to learn another lesson in humility. Sometimes I wonder if my survival instincts have been a hindrance. Now things had become so bad that I needed to seek help, and God answered. I've had to be so strong all my life for others, cleaning up the messes of life, that I wonder sometimes if I trusted in what I had learned and survived, more than on Him. Lately, I've gotten to a place emotionally where I don't want to even try to do anything on my own anymore. I am desperately seeking Him all the time. He's given me a fine mind, but I've become tired from having to think and figure things out and not having anyone to lean on. God is reminding me that the only one I need to rely on is Him. For one day I'd just like to crawl up into His lap and be held awhile longer.

In looking at a study on Joseph's life, I can understand his desire to share his dreams with others, and I understand when others feel threatened or jealous about something I've said that was taken wrongly. The scripture translation suggested that Joseph may have been haughty minded when he shared with his brothers and his father, Jacob, the visions the Lord had given him. His brothers were already jealous about Jacob's favoritism and the coat of many colors he'd given to Joseph. His dreams were the last straw for them, and they began to hate him. No one ever stuffed me in a well and sold me to traders thankfully, but things have happened when I tried to share, and I shared in careful manner. Even when we do things in the right way, humbly and thoughtfully, it can be misunderstood. Poor Joseph ended up in prison in Egypt, but because of God's favor on his life, Joseph advanced in each area of his imprisonment. His dreams were for a reason, as they prophesied of what was to happen - of a coming famine in the land. His story is an amazing journey, and he ended up saving the lives of his father, brothers, and all the Jewish nation, as well as preparing Pharaoh for what was to come. This wisdom given by God through the interpretation of Pharaoh's dream earned Joseph a position in Egypt second to Pharaoh.

A question was posed in my Daily Walk overview: "Where are you experiencing the molding force of pressure today, and how are you reacting to it? Are you looking for the nearest exit? Or are you asking God to shape you into a vessel for greater service?" 

I had to chuckle at the "looking for the nearest exit" scenario, as I certainly have considered leaving more than once recently. But then, that's not the right response, but I wonder if I lost my car to keep me from running away? It's something to think about, even if God doesn't do things that way. But recent events and changes in my health as a result of the stress does make me think about things more closely. I do believe that things happen for a reason, and I know that we are constantly learning. As my son mentioned before, and I believe it is certainly true of each of us, we do not give God thanks as much as we should, as He is due all honor and glory and thanksgiving. I remain amazed that He doesn't give up on me, but He never will, and He never leaves any of us. He's true to His promise and covenants.

So we persevere, and we continue to keep our eyes fixed on the Author and Finisher of our faith. Today was hard day for me. I received some news about my health that I didn't want to hear, and there's more to come. In the meantime I have to find a way to leave things at the foot of the cross. And people. So much is going on in the world also, and as an intercessor my focus has to be clear and sharp. Jesus said things would happen, and they are, so there should be no surprises. I was given instructions several years ago, and I remind myself of it daily - "Keep your eyes on the Commander of the Armies of Heaven." So, that I will do, daily suiting up as per Ephesians 6:10-20 and covering the armor in prayer, taking my position on the wall. Will you join me?! 

Day 12 Just Thinkin'

 

1/12/2026

"Our faith in prayer can be no passing attitude that changes

with the wind or with our own feelings and circumstances;

it must be a fact that God hears and answers, that His

ear open to the cry of His children, and that the power to do what

is asked of Him is commensurate with His willingness."

E.M. Bounds

 

Life becomes more interesting with each passing day, and I am learning that God has His unique way of getting our attention. Strange, as I was writing those words, a friend was texting me, so I shared them with her. Maybe she needed to hear them also. Our job is to trust God, stand strong, growing in our faith. I think the best way for that is to share our faith and our stories. My story over the past month or so hasn't been too exciting, rather discouraging in many ways, plus now my health has been affected. It's nothing I haven't grappled with before, but the trial is stressful and painful. Still, in faith I stand knowing that God knows my needs, and He will make a way where there seems to be none. 

Each day I receive prayer requests from people I don't even know, but with whom I am acquainted through various other people or the church or churches, here, there, and yonder. Plus the intercessory prayer circles. Daily things are becoming more chaotic in our nation and across the world. Things are gearing up, and only God knows the outcome. It's not a time to fear, and it is definitely not a time to shirk our responsibility as Americans or as followers of Christ. Many times I've written and spoken about a time has come when we must draw a line in the sand, saying this is it! No further, devil! That time has come. Actually that time has been here, but I think even the casual observer is noticing things or seeing a bit more clearly these days. 

Today I was supposed to get a few things done, but I was too sick to leave the house. Remember, I've been without my own "wheels" since early December, so having to turn down a ride is serious business for me, as it's the only time I can get things done outside of the home. But my sister, bless her, showed me more grace, so we will do the needed errands on Wednesday, if all goes well. I'm blessed to have my sister living so closely to me. For years I lived in one State and she lived here. The 1200 miles between didn't make it easy to see each other, except when our parents were living. So, I'm glad that I have the opportunity to make up for lost time. My brother lives about two hours away, and although they are retired, their lives are busy, so I still haven't spent much time with him. Hopefully, that will change one day. Time is precious.

My high school graduation class will be getting together for our quarterly lunch in March. It seems so far away, and yet, Valentine's decorations and candy is already out. Time goes by so quickly, especially as we grow older. This week we said "see ya later" to two of our class members who passed on. I pray we'll see them again in glory, only God knows the heart. It seems as if we have lost several members of our class in recent years. That's another thing I wasn't expecting when I returned home. It certainly gives one pause to consider how we spend our lives, and it makes us appreciate others more.

My son was whistling this morning shortly after he got up. That's a good sign for the day. He struggles so much with depression, and it seems as if the doctors' answers for everything is another new pill. I live by some of my mama's old rules she taught me growing up that have served me well. One was when you are sick or feel down in the morning, get up, take a bath, get dressed, and get busy doing something. It has served me well. I even followed that golden rule when I was so sick with migraines that I couldn't stand the light, and I could hardly stand up on my feet from fainting. But, I knew I had to, especially when I got older and had children and a job. I mustered the courage and the strength from my faith and many prayers. God got me through all of it, and I know now that He will see me through anything that comes. I won't give up or in, I can't. It's not the way of faith and trust. It's okay to lie down for awhile, and it's okay to cry and throw up. After that has passed, then try again. God is so good, and He hears our cries. Scripture proves that over and over, as does my life.

Things may appear a little bleak today, but the sun will come up tomorrow on a brand new day. This one will end in gratitude, and tomorrow will begin the same way. All praise! 

Day 11 What is My Purpose?

 

1/11/2025

"Choice, not chance, determines your destiny."

Daily Walk

 

Life begins with empty pages until our first cognitive thought or impulse - the beating of our hearts. Yet, God says that He knew us before the foundation of the world. He actually considered everything about each of us. What we'd look like, the color of our eyes, hair, skin, and He hand selected our parents. Psalm 139 says that He knit us together in our mother's womb, fitting all our parts together while we were not even born. He even knew that the umbilical cord would be wrapped around my neck at birth, making delivery difficult for my mother. He has known every one of my days before there were any days, and He knew that I'd love Him and serve Him. He knew every wrong move I would make, how I would struggle for so many years. He knew and knows everything concerning me, and the amazing part is that He chose me for a special purpose, and He wrote about it in His book about me.

"For You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother's womb. I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; marvelous are Your works, and that my soul knows very well. My frame was not hidden from You, when I was made in secret, and skillfully wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed. And in Your book they all were written, the days fashioned for me, when as yet there were none of them." (Psalm 139:13-16).  

I've been reading about the call of Abraham to be the first Hebrew! God chose Abraham to become the father of a nation of people too numerous to count, like the sand in the desert. Abraham blindly followed when God said for him to go, leave his country and travel to a nation he did not know; then Isaac, his son, followed suit obeying God's directions. The stories of their lives are so incredible, and yet this is how God is. He made a covenant with Abraham, who then passed it on to Isaac, then Isaac to Jacob. Jacob becomes the father of the twelve tribes of Israel who enter into the Promised Land God had chosen for them. Each step of the way in the lives of these patriarchs was a deliberate act of obedience and a step of faith. And each step of the way God honored His covenant with them, keeping it through all the generations of those who loved Him. And He continues to do so today. It is too wonderful to imagine. God is serious about His plan for His chosen people.

But, it is also remarkable that Jesus made a way for non-Jewish people, Gentiles, like me, who has accepted His gift of salvation through Jesus to be grafted into the family and inherit the blessings. Never do we take the place of His chosen ones, but we can partake of His blessings. God planned that from the beginning also. Salvation comes through the Jewish nation and salvation has been offered to them first. This is an exciting time as more and more people are opening their eyes to the truth of the gospel, realizing that Messiah has already come and is coming again! What wonderful news to share. That's why we're here - to spread the Good News as Jesus said to His disciples before His ascension. 

"And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, '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 the Son and 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.' Amen." (Matthew 28:18-20).

We have been placed here to first of all love the LORD our God with all our heart, our soul, our mind, and our strength. Next, we are to love others, esteeming them higher than ourselves. We are to be bold in sharing the gospel with everyone and to live our lives righteously, clothed in humility, showing the fruit of the Spirit in our lives, actions, words, and deeds. None of us are perfect, but as His followers, we are to emulate Christ. Paul the Apostle told the Corinthians to follow him as he followed Christ, and it is the same for us.

Besides that God has given us each spiritual gifts spoken of in 1 Corinthians 12, and we are called to be the "body of Christ" likened to our physical body with different parts, fitted together, functioning as a unit. Scientifically or medically speaking our human bodies are dependent on each part working together as one part, a network of parts working with the others. It's God's creative genius at work right before our eyes. One part is as necessary as another, which is compared to how we function in life, living our unique plan that God ordained that we should walk in. No one's job is more important than another one. But whatever we do, as God's workmanship we are to bring Him glory, honor, and praise in everything we do. That's our number one purpose - to love God and bring Him honor.