Day 177 Are You Seeing This?!

 

6/26/2026

He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High

 shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. 

 I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress;
My God, in Him I will trust.”

 

Psalm 91:1-2 

 

 

Each day we are exposed to the headlines of the day in local and world digital newspapers. The news could be the same topic, but each journalist chooses to report events and happenings as they are instructed to do, generally with extreme bias and less than factual truth. Over the years our nation has been spiraling out of control, and the lawlessness and outright shameful behavior of people is becoming more shocking and sadistic than any of those sins described so flagrantly in the Bible before God destroyed the earth. I have made it a point to look at reputable reporting, and then I wait to see if it is accurate. Many times, I choose to read only the headlines, because I have already been alerted by other sources of what is happening. Personally I do not feel that I have to read every disgusting report to know how to pray. I have chosen to spend my time listening to what God has to say than what the world is saying.

 

This morning in my quiet time I heard a new song written by Abbie Gamboa and Steffany Gretzinger that described how I feel. The song is called Mountain Air:

 

"I'm up here, where it's high
Where it's high, I can see all the things in a different light
Look around and clear is all I see
Nothing clouding my head
Nothing clouding me

 

I wanna stay here
I wanna be close to where you are
I wanna be right here where your breath becomes mine

 

There are thousands of ways I could overthink
But when it's you, and it's me, things are easy
I'm undone by how simple it's become
When I let go and let you lead
You do it better than me
I let go and let you lead
You do it better than me

 

I wanna stay here
I wanna be close to where you are
I wanna be right here where your breath becomes mine

 

I think it's time that we take flight
Just you and I
Leave the world behind"

 

 

I choose to dwell in the secret place with God, in my hiding place, where, although I am aware of the spiritual battle that is playing out in the world, I can focus not on distractions, no matter how desperate they become, rather I can focus on what God's will is for me, His focus at that time. As believers in Jesus Christ we must decide who truly is our God and whose voice we are going to follow. Our battle is not with flesh and blood, but it is with principalities, powers, spiritual darkness of this age, and spiritual wickedness in high places. We cannot hide from the truth, and we must choose whom we will serve. It is not a time to be afraid, it is a time to wake up.

 

This week the announcement that 250,000 women and children in the UK have been raped, assaulted, and sexually tortured with objects appeared the news. It has not been the first report that has been posted. The crimes were committed by Islamic jihadists against white people. Daily crimes against women are being committed in Iran. Christians are being systemically hunted and savagely killed - men, women, children, just for loving and serving Jesus Christ. The people in Gaza are finally beginning to protest against brutal Hamas. The Lebanon government and people want Hezbollah out of their country. In our nation, our Christian nations, there are people running for seats in Congress who openly state they are socialists, antisemitic, and who disrespect America. Democratic Socialist Darializa Avila Chevalier who is running for office in the New York primary posted on Facebook: "I forgot to get napkins so I just wiped my hand on the American flag behind me." Many were cheering her on.

 

Is that acceptable behavior for someone running for a seat in our American Congress or any American position of leadership? And yet, many seats in government, State and Federal, have been filled with people with this mentality who hate America and who want to remove Christianity from our nation that was founded on these beliefs. Why isn't someone saying something? Why is the church largely silent? Why aren't we on our faces begging God for forgiveness and praying for the soul of America?

 

Is anyone paying attention? What will it take to move us from our comfort zones? When Jesus returns will He find faith? 

Day 176 Lessons in Parenting

 

6/25/2026

"Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. 'Honor your father and mother,'

 which is the first commandment with promise: 'that it may be well with you 

and you may live long on the earth.' And you, fathers, 

do not provoke your children to wrath, but 

bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord." 

Ephesians 6:1-4

 

Growing up in the South I learned very early about the role fathers play in the household, but I also witnessed the reverse. My daddy passed away in 2012, and there's not a day I don't miss him. When we moved away in 1987 across the nation from Virginia to New Mexico, our entire family life changed. In Biblical history when God told Abraham (then Abram) to leave his family and move to an unknown destination, Sarah (then Sarai) his wife, followed him. That's the way God planned things, the wife cleaves to her husband, not her parents. Of course it helps when God directs us to follow His commands, not our own, as the consequences can be devastating, as I learned. Those years have passed, but there's not a day I don't wonder what could have been had my husband listened to God when He said, "It is not yet time...! 

Many people talk badly about their childhood and how strict their fathers were growing up, and although I had some rough times, I am so grateful that my dad taught me how to survive in those difficult times. His mother died when he was very young, so he was raised by three older sisters and his dad. I don't know anything about my daddy's dad, as he died before I was born, but my daddy was always very attentive to his three sisters. He also was very kind and compassionate to a man who lived in the woods whom everyone said was crazy and had poor hygiene. I remember daddy picking him up when he saw him walking or hitchhiking, but he warned us not to let him into the house if he wasn't home. My daddy could be hard towards us, but seeing how gentle he was to this lonely man blessed my heart, and I do believe that his desire to help others effected my life. 

My maternal grandparents loved me well, as they did all their grandchildren. My mother was the second oldest of eight children, so she had to learn to tend to younger siblings at an early age. My grandfather, Papa, was always taking us places at the drop of a hat. He loved to drive through the countryside and look at crops and animals. He loved historical places, so we took many spur of the moment trips to Jamestown or Williamsburg. He also spoiled us with ice cream from High's Ice Cream Store on Washington Street. My daddy worked evenings, so he never took my brother fishing, but Papa did. Our generation's fathers worked hard, and they taught those values and work ethics to their sons and daughters. Men learned to take care of their wives and wives to respect them, and daughters learned to take care of children and the home. On Sundays, the men and children always ate first, then women would eat last. It was the way it was back then. Sundays were spent in church, then lunch at my grandparent's home. I don't remember any harsh words, and the children played outside on sunny days and upstairs on rainy ones. I loved being outside, playing in the woods, climbing trees, pretending, riding my "stick horse." Life was simple, and we had fun.

I read an article this week about children growing up in Israel who have lost their parents in this long war. Many are too young to really know who their fathers were, because those in the military die while defending the country. Their children know that their fathers were heroes, and they know the positions they served in, but "who" were they really. Did they love sports, what kind of games did they play, or how did they spent Shabbat with the family? Imagine the trauma faced by a child who has witnessed the senseless slaughter of their fathers right before their eyes. But this is not isolated to Israel, but many places in our world by violence and lawlessness runs rampant while government seems to look the other way. Some children grow up with much pent up anger, frustration, mental anguish, and hatred. If we could just for one moment stop and consider why someone behaves as they do, then maybe we would be better able and equipped to turn hearts to Christ and find healing.  

Pastor Greg from Harvest Church shared about his life extensively, because he wanted men to know that even if they never had a father, or they had one who was cruel or absent, that it does not have to define who they become. But many are negatively affected, and many end up in jail or mixing with wrong company, or they may even commit suicide. But even if there is not a father in the home, there are other men who can step up and be a companion or guide to vulnerable children. Growing up I had many father figures, because my grandparents and parents took us to visit family and friends from church and the community, so I saw many godly examples. Life was different growing up in the 50's and 60's. Perhaps not perfect, but I choose to remember the good things. I pray that somehow I was able to instill in my children the importance of family, but some days I do not see that. The company we choose to keep plays a huge part in our lives, for good or bad. Who we choose to listen to is having a negative impact on many, but at the same time many young men from Gen Z are running to Christ, buying Bibles, desirous of knowing the truth and living a life with purpose.

Many times we hear about the negative impact of culture on the young people of today, but recently there have been many reports of the opposite. Mario Murillo just held a tent revival service in Stockton, California that lasted 52 days, and most present in that huge tent that seats 8,000 were young people who rushed forward when the altar call was given. On subsequent evenings they returned bringing others with them. Many of those attending were delivered from drugs and other addictions.  Not long ago, Mario reported that each revival he has to purchase a larger tent, usually double in size. He continues to hold revivals wherever God leads, and in each city he holds conferences for pastors and street ministry to introduce pastors and volunteers to the people in the area. God has been moving in California and across this nation.  

Since Charlie Kirk's death Turning Point USA has not stopped, and it has continued to grow with new connections at colleges and high school campuses. In spite of protests and obstacles and outright rage and hatred shown to the young people at Turning Point, they continue to press forward. What the enemy meant for evil God most assuredly has turned for good.

As believers and followers of Jesus Christ we have a mandate to go and make disciples of all men, women, and children, and in spite of what may not have been a perfect upbringing, just like Pastor Greg shared, God can do mighty things in a person's life. As the church we need to be prepared to disciple the new converts. As we celebrate our 250th anniversary of America, our greatest goal is revival and reformation. Now is the time for fathers to be leaders in their homes, churches, businesses, and in our government teaching our children to live as Jesus lived, honoring our Father who is in Heaven. We need to make this One Nation Under God as our President is trying to do.Thy will be done, Holy Father, on earth as it is in Heaven in our personal lives and in this nation and world.    

Day 175 Trampled...Polluted?

 

6/24/2026

"Like a trampled spring, and a polluted well,

is a righteous man, who gives way to the wicked."

Proverb 25:26

 

This afternoon I sat through a Zoom meeting that while informative and positive, didn't respond to the questions I have regarding some pretty disturbing situations going on at this time. Again I sit here, staring at my inbox filled with news from this source and the other, pull up ministry prayer points or switch over for the daily updates, and I want to scream - ENOUGH!! In fact, one of my sources that deals with protecting our children from cyber predators by providing education and advocacy is called Enough Is Enough. There should be more ministries dedicated to exposing the truth and ensuring that it doesn't happen again. Ministries that actually protect our children, exposing the predators, and ensuring that they are punished for what they have done. Silencing the voice of the enemy once and for all.

Each day I receive a short documentary about our founding forefathers, meant to educate those who, like me, may have forgotten the details of American history, and for others who never had the privilege of learning about the richness of the history of the land in which they live. When I was a child, our school would take regular field trips to historical sites with enactments and plays from those periods of history. I loved feeling as if I was a part of the drama. Of course the darker periods were not reenacted for the public, or perhaps I was unaware of any that may have existed, but there were museums with graphic reminders of the evils that existed during those dark days. There were many events in our history that I wish never happened, but that, sadly, exists as part of the history of any people. 

There's so much excitement about our nation's 250th anniversary, and rightly so, as it should be a special time, but it is unfortunate that many want to spoil it. There have even been plans to cause harm at some of earlier events, but thankfully the plans were thwarted. The enemy truly is roaming around seeking whom he can destroy, and he is using indoctrinated young people who have been filled with lies and hatred by many who are engaged in government and public affairs. I think about all the movies that have been made about such evil manipulation of otherwise innocent minds. It is sick and sadistic, and it should not be allowed to exist.  

On March 20, 2025 our President sent out an announcement regarding the upcoming 250th anniversary and reminders of our founding fathers participation in achieving the freedom of our nation. He spoke of Patrick Henry's famous and impassioned speech he made during the Second Virginia Convention held at St. John's Church in Richmond, Virginia where he stood at the pulpit and spoke these words:

“Gentlemen may cry, Peace, Peace-- but there is no peace. The war is actually begun! The next gale that sweeps from the north will bring to our ears the clash of resounding arms! Our brethren are already in the field! Why stand we here idle? What is it that gentlemen wish? What would they have? Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it, Almighty God! I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty or give me death!”

As a child I remember memorizing speeches to include this one, our Declaration of Independence, and the Constitution. As part of our education we learned State history, United States history, and in many instances world history. In our colleges and universities, founded initially on Christian beliefs and a moral conscience, we were taught the Bible as literature, as it is the historical account of the Jewish people and the nation of Israel, of which followers of Christ have been grafted in to share in God's promises to His chosen people. Many do not realize the significance of that, as now the seminaries and colleges teach the false doctrine of Replacement Theology in which the Jewish people, God's chosen people, have been replaced by the church. A people who wrote the Bible and gifted it to us.

Right now our nation is embroiled in a battles that happen each day in the higher offices of our nation, between those we have voted into office who have pledged to uphold the great traditions and heritage of our brave forefathers. Isn't that what the commemoration of the 250th anniversary is all about? But within the halls of our Congress deadly cat and mouse games are going on every day that most Americans are not even aware of nor do they care to truly question. The one place where these matters of life and death should be discussed but are pushed aside as not relevant or not to be discussed - the church. But this is a lie, because scripture is very plain about what we are expected to do as believers in Christ who are following in His example of righteousness, truth, and justice. Isaiah said that the government is upon His shoulders, and He entrusted it to us.

Whereas I do not enjoy reading the legislative documents that are composed by our legislators, it would be well advised if we all took the time to examine exactly what is being placed into the hands of our leaders that affect our lives and the decisions being made on our behalf, especially when there is so much infighting in the halls of justice.

Everyone is made to believe that our President is the cause of wrong doing when if, rather than listening to gossip of higher ups and media, as most people are prone to do, even in the church where gossip is exchanged for legitimate prayer needs, eyes may be open to the real truth. No one is perfect, and every human being ever born makes mistakes and sins each day of their lives, especially with their tongues speaking falsely against their brothers, but the hatred spewed against our sitting commander and chief is deplorable and needs to be put to an end. It is shameful and disrespectful, and the office should be honored.

Jesus told the Pharisees in their sermons about holiness and keeping the law that they strained out a gnat and swallowed a camel. We speak of prayer for our nation, and rightly so. Our nation is in terrible need of repentance for the sins of abortion, organ harvesting, experimentation, human trafficking and drugs, pornography, antisemitism, anti-Zionism, anti-Christianity in a nation founded on Christian beliefs of morality and good common sense. While fighting ourselves over other matters we have allowed communism of China and Iran's Islamic doctrine to infiltrate our nation undermining our people and planting their own purposes, many of which are firmly taking root. All while eyes are focused on many other distractions.

We must wake up and see things for what they are. Just look at what has happened in other nations not just in America, but look at the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, European nations, and the hideous torment of the people in Nigeria and the Congo. It is time to wake up, pay attention to what is happening and what has already taken place.

This grieves my spirit every day, and I pray that the Church will wake up, repent for only caring about their own agendas, and truly seek the face of God. I stand for Israel, and I love the people, but Israel will be saved, because God said it, so it is truth. The Bible does not say the same for our nation. Who has really taken the time to truly read the Bible cover to cover? It is well worth the time, and it should be done daily. It is time to seek God while He may be found. 

Day 174 Doing Good

 

6/23/2026

 "Who is my neighbor?"

Luke 10:25-37 

 

God has a way of testing our motives and our sincerity, especially when we are desperate for an answer to a pressing matter. Lately I've been examining every thought I have to make certain that my motives are right, because it's so easy to think we're doing the right thing, but really it's selfish. I tend to overly examine myself about everything, but I'm glad that I have a conscience, and that I am concerned with the welfare and feelings of other people. I often get upset because for all the caring I do about others, no one really seems to sense that I may have needs too. I guess that's the hazard of always being the one to sense the needs of another and reach out. I can actually see the heart, and I'm glad that God has given me this understanding. But I also know that I can get myself into hot water mighty easily if I am too eager, so I have to step back, pray, and wait. 

My son and I have experienced so many challenges, frustrations since his accident in early December 2025. The accident was difficult enough, but he was actually accused of things that were not true, and even now he has been unable to set that person straight. Perhaps this is just something he needs to release to God and prove by his silence and his actions that his conscience is clear. I understand how he feels, because I have been wrongfully accused more than once, but thankfully, God vindicated me each time, so I pray that He will do the same for my son.

When we're desperate for answers, and ache for release to begin something new, God may bring people into our lives whom we can bless more than they can meet out need. For instance. I have spoken to several people recently about helping me with some work that needs to be done on the home. I've been let down so many times with people promising and never calling back that it becomes disheartening, and frankly I wanted to cry. So I did, but I cried out to God to please show me something good. That's been my prayer in recent years when things don't work out time and time again. He realizes that I don't have a clue as to what I am doing, but I know, as He knows that I can do all things through Him who gives me strength. But I cried out, then within a short time I received a message asking if I still needed help with my project. I was skeptical at first, but I wrote back. So right now I have someone working on my home project. I took a chance in using someone qualified but not licensed, but the job did not require one.  In reaching out in response to a stranger's offer to help, I believe that I may be able to repay the kindness in another way. God never allows us to sit on our talents. It's too early to tell yet, but perhaps this person needs my help more than we need his. Either way, if it works out, it will be a win, win situation I pray and perhaps the answer to some other dreams I have.

I've been restless again about getting a job, not so much for finances to do repairs around the house, although it would certainly help out. But more, I think, because I can provide a need in the workforce and to the community. God gave me jobs that trained me the ropes of case management, and I worked with many special needs including trauma victims. Because of personal experiences I am particularly sensitive to women and children who have been abused. There are jobs available with the State and County that I could easily qualify to fill, but I am asking myself if I really want to work that hard in positions that are so painful and potentially life-threatening. And I ask God if the desire is from Him or me? I no longer doubt my ability, but I do examine my motives. I'm getting older now, and although I want to be useful, doing what God wants me to do, is this it? So I pray, as I know that intercession is a call I've had since I was a youngster. How my heart breaks for the prayers requests that cross my path, and the brokenness and tragedies that I hear about. Sometimes all I can do is weep, and I wish I could be with that person and hug them, so they would feel true love and compassion.                                                                           

So many people need friends, real ones who stick with the person, and helps them navigate life. Isn't that the life of a true believer in Christ? If Jesus was here in person, I know my son would have a true friend, one who would understand him and accept him. Listen to his hurts, his thoughts, and give answers. Who would point him back to the only true source of truth, the Word of God. Jesus is the Living Word. And I can be a friend to someone who needs one, even when it isn't convenient to help. That's what the life of Christ is all about. Many have experienced the lies of the enemy who send his minions to appear to be friends only to get something from the one in need. I've even seen intense indoctrination into false religion, leading a person from the narrow path of a Christ follower to the culture's standards. Made to believe things that simply are not true. Blaming innocent people, especially parents. It seems that mothers get a lot of the guilt heaped on them for trying to love their children, provide for them, protect them, and instruct them in righteousness. All of a sudden that's abuse and indoctrination. Teaching a young one how to clean their room, make their bed or attempt to make it, and to teach them how to make a sandwich is now considered abuse or neglect. The enemy is so busy trying to twist and turn the hearts of children of God into victims, even after they have reached adulthood. It makes me so sad, but I pray and having done all, I stand.

I no longer hear the lies play over and over in my head, and I no longer entertain the distortions, but I do see and understand very well that these problems exist, and they are destroying lives. This is why I feel that God puts us to the test. He knows our hearts, and He knows our good intentions, but do we really know what we ask for? Are we ready to say yes so eagerly? Do we count the cost? Or is our trust so strong that we say "Thy will be done, Lord, not mine? Do we surrender, come what may...what His will directs? The test will tell. I pray that I'm listening and will respond to His true call.

Day 173 Goodness of God

 

6/22/2026

"From the moment that wake til I lay my head down, 

I will sing of the goodness of God! I will sing of the goodness of God!" 

Goodness of God

by Bethel

 

So much happens in my day from the moment I open my eyes until I go to bed at night, that the notes in my journal become confusing to me. I knew exactly what I was going to write about this morning, but after a challenging day, and a rather lengthy phone call, I felt dazed and confused. Thinking back over the day, it seems as if I didn't accomplish very much in the way of housework, yard work, or any work. But then I do tend to judge myself too harshly, because as so many people tell me, I am advancing in age - noted; so my body wears out faster - noted; and I need to rest more - noted. Older folks need to be put out to pasture, I imagine many younger people think, but then fast forward the years, and they suffer the same fate. The younger generation is amazed that baby boomers still exist who love to be involved in helping others, learning new things, and taking little trips to places on their bucket lists, who do not succumb to the lure of couch potatoism. Although I do tend to stay up too late at night and rise somewhat early, my life in no way can be compared with that of the Proverbs 31 woman, whose home is immaculate, meals prepared beforehand, garden tended to perfection, and for fun she buys real estate with the egg money she's earned. I've had my days of never ending fun, but I never made money off eggs. My gram fixed them for breakfast. What a life!

I used to be a more meticulous homemaker, but I've long passed that stage. In my house, dust and cat hair freely fly, and it is an all-consuming battle to keep their fur brushed, and in Alex's case knot free, as he loves rolls in the leaves and loves to sleep in the bushes with little green burrs snagging his fur. Right now my cat is outside after hissing at poor Mia, my son's indoor cat, because she looked at him while he was eating and got too close to me. Mia, being the lady she is, didn't hiss back nor did she run and hide. On the contrary, the one who ran was Alex, as if he's afraid of his own hiss. I'll never understand cats, but then, I don't want to. Their lives are way too sedentary for me.

It's raining again, and why not! After all these days of trying to hire someone to fix my back steps, the day he's coming it rains! At least it gave me a chuckle, so we postpone until tomorrow. The weather forecast is promising more rain, so we'll see how long this drags out. While sitting here tonight at my laptop trying to finish writing, a crash of thunder sounded and a bolt of lightning cracked down so loudly that it startled me. I ran to look out the window to make sure my maple was still standing and nothing was on fire. Thankfully, no fire and my electricity stayed on. Then came the rain and the gully washer continued a good while. I noticed that the basement had some water coming from outside to the drain, so that means mud is trapped over the drain at the base of the steps. Thankfully the sump pump did not engage. This is part of the fun in owning and maintaining a home. 

In spite of all the challenges of life and the silly little things that happen, I am truly grateful for this home. While it may be older than I am, and it may not have newer appliances, it functions well and serves our purposes. I would love to have the repairs completed and everything a little neater and freshly painted, it really isn't that important in the scheme of things. Many people don't have a home or regular meals. So I take it one step at a time. Waiting for the Lord's good timing, trusting Him to provide for our needs in unusual ways. I wouldn't want it any other way.   

Day 172 A Wonderful Life

 

6/21/2026

 "Knowing what to do is understanding.

Doing what you know is wisdom, (Are your wise?) 

Teaching what you do is prudence.

Daily Walk

 

Today as the nation celebrates Father's Day, I am celebrating my daughter's birthday! Although I am not able to be with her in person, we still find ways to celebrate together. She doesn't have internet or a computer or a cell phone, so we can't "face time" or Zoom or Google Chat or any of the things most people who are distances apart are able to do, so we come up with creative ways to enjoy and celebrate. She prefers a simple life, but I feel confident that if she gave it a try, she might enjoy having a computer or cell phone. Still, there's something to be said about retro televisions with the big tv screen inside of a wooden cabinet, an old radio, and a hand held telephone. For emergencies, when the phone lines are down, she has an old rotary phone I gave her that makes it possible to phone in a report and let me know her lines are down. Why it works and how it works when the power is out I don't know. Maybe it's a direct line to God. Who can say?!

Today is also Shabbat, and the message was from Numbers 16:1 - 18:32, and it covered the story of Korah's rebellion while Moses was leading the children of Israel in the desert  where they were wandering after the ten spies returned with a bad report. Korah belonged to the tribe of Levi, so he was one of the priestly tribe who had been given specific daily duties for caring for the tabernacle. In this portion Korah was attempting to lead a rebellion against Moses, God's chosen leader. Joining with Korah were Dathan and Abiram from the tribe of Reuben and 250 leaders of the congregation. They accused Moses of thinking too highly of himself and taking too much authority, the authority God had given to him and Aaron. Actually in their grumbling and complaining and hurling of insults, they were really directing accusations against God, so this rebellion did not bode well for Korah and company. In the end the naysayers were once more severely dealt with, and the rest of the company continued their trek through the desert, no doubt with renewed fear of the LORD, thankful they had been spared the fate of the others. Nonetheless, it seemed as if no one learned from their mistakes, and very shortly they were at it again - grumbling and complaining. 

This entire portion of scripture concerned the honor and reverence due a Holy God. He had delivered them from Egypt, destroyed the enemy who was fast on their heels. As Moses led them through the wilderness God appeared as a cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night, His presence always went before them, just as He promised Moses He had blessed them with manna from heaven and quail flew down into the camp for their meat. Still, it was not enough. 

When we think of the modern church today, there is a stark difference between the the way my generation  was raised up and those who make up the churches today. I have been attending the Baptist church where my parents were members, and there are visages of the days of my youth. I've spoken about the messages by Pastor Jonathan before, as he teaches in an expository style - book by book, line by line, and he explains the context in which the entire chapters are written. This is essential in teaching and training up the people to follow the whole counsel of the Word of God. The congregation dresses respectfully, and the little children are well behaved and well-mannered. It's refreshing to see how the young adults and teenagers are growing in discipleship and community interaction. It seems to be a well-rounded modern church where the church is open on more days than Sundays and offers different groups. It's not as progressive as some of the Pentecostal churches I have attended, but the worship and heart of the people is sincere. 

Still more is needed as this is not the case in all houses of worship. Jesus said "come as you are," but many take that to mean however they want to dress, and it is very disrespectful. The popular thing in churches is to have a cafe where beverages and snacks are sold, but these items should be left outside the sanctuary which should be devoted to honoring God, inviting His holy presence. The modern culture dresses in clothing that is torn or immodest, and pants that are tight as skin are worn exposing the well endowed attributes of the one wearing them. Again, not meant for the sanctuary. I know that God wants us to come as we are, but we are not meant to remain that way. Whereas it may be understandable to see a new believer improperly clad, but as this one grows and matures in Christ, that should change as the person becomes transformed by the renewing of their hearts.  

I'm sure there are grumblers and complainers in every church, because there are always unhappy folks no matter where one attends. This is rather sad, as a church should be a joyful crowd of people sharing one thing in common - the love of God and bringing glory to His name. Sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ to a lost and dying world. Christianity is not a religion, it is a relationship with the Living God, with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, who wants to live with us, every day and in every way. Each joint supplied meaning each member using the gifts God has given them to serve mankind. It's a wonderful life characterized by the fruit of the Spirit of God dwelling within in each Believer - love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). 

Day 171 Let Us Kneel Down

 

6/20/2026

"Oh come, let us worship and bow down;

Let us kneel before the LORD our Maker. For He is God,

and we are the people of His pasture,

and the sheep of His hand."

Psalm 95:6-7

 

It's a beautiful day, sun is high in the sky, it's cooler than normal, and the rain clouds have dissipated. It's going to be a clear, breezy day for my friend's family cook out under the trees. She and her siblings own their grandparents' old farmhouse situated on a few acres of off the grid farm land used for raising crops, and although it doesn't have modern plumbing, she has rented facilities for the day. All is well and anticipation is high!

Meanwhile back at my house, my day of Sabbath rest begins, and after the morning call and Shabbat message, I get to spend my day lounging or doing whatever I decide to do. Right now I'm looking across the freshly mowed field adjacent to my house that separates my home from my neighbor. The original neighbors no longer own the home, but their daughter still owns the field. My daddy used to raise potatoes in a small patch of that field, so I spent much time digging potatoes when in season. It seems as if most of my parents' friends have crossed over the great divide, and sadly, so have many of my friends. Time stands still for no one, and our days are numbered. We have a high school luncheon coming up in July. There will only be a few of us, but I enjoy smaller groups - less gossip and a quality time. I'm hoping I can talk to my literary friend and get some tips on setting the pace for my book. It's something to look forward to doing, so I am waiting anxiously.

The tone for our global call at the Embassy in Jerusalem was mixed about the way negotiations are going between Iran and the United States. Israel has not been privy to certain information, or so the news media wants to spin their yarn. Truth is in short supply, and many games are being played. Only the next few hours or days will tell the real tale, but one thing's for certain - it's time for us to get our act together and live as friends. Of course that won't happen in the long run, but for now a little peace and solidarity would be nice. Each partisan camp seems to be doing their own thing, each not including the other, and this must end as nations continue to watch. Also, our young people, the future leaders are watching the way the adults behave, and it is my prayer that things will be turned around, and the country will turn their hearts and minds back to God. 

When I consider the way things are going in our nation and in our world, I think about a passage of scripture found in Habakkuuk 3:17-18:

"Though the fig tree may not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines; though the labor of the olive may fail, and the fields yield no food; though the flock may be cut of from the fold, ad there be no herd in the stalls - yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will joy in the God of my salvation." 

Being content in whatever situation we find ourselves. In famine or flood, sunshine or rain, eyes on the Lord, our Savior, Redeemer, and Friend. To God be the glory.