Day 197 Fragrance of Suffering

 

7/16/2026

"In times of affliction we commonly meet the

sweetest experiences of the love of God."

Daily Walk

 

Mark Twain once wrote "Forgiveness is the fragrance that the violet sheds on the heel that has crushed it." Over the past several months I have been keeping a close check on the motives of my heart. Last Sunday our pastor spoke about anger and the importance of not allowing the sun to go down on our wrath, as the Apostle Paul warned in Ephesians 4. This week I began the study of the book of Isaiah the prophet called to speak God's judgment against Judah. The Commentator of this portion of Scripture states that although Isaiah was aware that his countrymen were receiving the judgment for their sins that they deserved, his heart was broken. But, from that brokenness arose a man with great strength who was ready and able to do what God gave him to do. The Commentator then asks: "The sweet fragrance of perfume is only possible after a 'crushing' experience. And that's what God is doing today: bringing a sweet fragrance out of your life. But first must come the crushing - the conforming - the committing of your life to Him. Are you willing, like Isaiah, to be bruised that you might be used?"

My life has taught me one very important lesson, and it is found in one verse of Scripture that is repeated time and time again, often without thought or consideration, one of the "go to cliches" we Christians use frequently. Philippians 4:13, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Paul wrote this letter to the believers at Philippi from a prison cell thanking the them for their kindness to him, and to encourage them in their faith. It is known as a "happy letter." Paul does in deed write words that have encouraged me, and ones I have shared with many others as Scripture to commit to heart, especially those found in verses 4 - 8: 

"Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy - meditate on these things."

In spite of his suffering, Paul encourages us to think on "good" things. He reminds me of Pollyanna playing The Glad Game! It worked, and it transformed a sleepy ole town held hostage by one bitter old spinster, Pollyanna's aunt, who was also changed. Think about something you're glad about.

Just before he gives the message of doing all things through Christ, he shares his reason for being able to trust in the strength of God. In the verse preceding, Philippians 4:12, Paul shares: "I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need." Many times in Scripture Paul shares about the suffering he endures physically, but through it all he found true peace and a reason to go forth to complete the work God had given him to do, completing his race.

The prophet Isaiah spent sixty years speaking on behalf of God through visions during the reigns of King Uzziah, King Jotham, King Ahaz, and King Hezekiah. He lost his life during the reign of King Manesseh, King Hezekiah's son, when he was sawn in two for his prophetic witness. Many prophets of the LORD were martyred for speaking the words of the LORD early in Israel's history. Today the persecution of the church continues as antisemitism rises, and also as persecution of Christians who support Israel increases. Christians who stand against the hypocrisy of the government and organizations that encourage lawlessness and actions contrary to the Word of the LORD are becoming targets as well. The First Amendment is constantly in jeopardy, and the church remains silent against these wrongs. As in Isaiah's time God is calling our nation to repentance and leaders to speak out and make a stand.

When we make the decision to live for Christ and to do what He told us to do before He ascended to Heaven, we will make enemies. Before being able to complete the work God has given us to do, however, we must truly die to self, surrendering our desires to those of Christ.When we obey God's words concerning Israel, we face many enemies. As I have said many times before, there is a high cost to discipleship, and there are many saints, martyred for their faith, who can identify with that high cost. I remember the words of missionary Jim Elliot, who died at the age of 28 attempting to evangelize the Auca Indians, the Huaorani people of Ecuador, "He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain that which he cannot lose." He and his friends who died with him knew the cost they may have to pay.

But like Paul, and like Isaiah, there is a fragrance that rises to heaven when we pray for others, stand for truth, encourage a brother who is suffering, by serving, by giving, and by loving others to Christ.We're on a mission. The price is high, but the reward is sweet and satisfying. 

Day 196 Search My Heart

 

 

7/15/2026

"O LORD, You have searched me 

and known me."

Psalm 139:1

 

David, the psalmist and King of Israel, knew the heart of God, and God knew David's heart. That is the relationship I hunger for with my Father. The title of Psalm 139 is "God's Perfect Knowledge of Man." The psalm continues:

"You know my sitting down and my rising up; You understand my thought afar off. You comprehend my path and my lying down, and are acquainted with all my ways. For there is not a word on my tongue, but behold, O LORD, You know it altogether. You have hedged me behind and before, and laid Your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high, I cannot attain it." (verses 2-6)

In Psalm 17:3 David writes:

"You have tested my heart; You have visited me in the night; You have tried me and have found nothing; I have purposed that my mouth shall not transgress."

This week in our Bible study we've been considering the subject "The Clock is Ticking," based on Scripture found in Ephesians 4. This epistle written by Apostle Paul to the church at Ephesus is one of my favorite studies relating to the life of a follower of Christ and the proper spiritual attitude of the church. Pastor Clark was looking at the connection between time and anger, centering around the main scripture within this portion of Chapter 4 in verse 26 when the apostle warns: "'Be angry, and do not sin.' Do not let the sun go down on your wrath...." Ephesians 4 examines five areas of the Christian life: 1. Walking in Unity, 2. Spiritual Gifts, 3. The New Man, 4. Do not grieve the Spirit, and 5. Walking in Love. Of course when we consider these areas of a godly life, we need to daily examine our lives to ensure we are lining up with God's Word and His will and purpose for our lives. I found it ironic that after going through this teaching that the enemy would attack me from all angles, and yet, realizing that, as I said in my previous post, that God allows the pressing and the squeezing for a purpose. In some ways I felt that I failed the test, but on second glance I see that I passed so much more.

For now, however, I want to continue to think about what David is saying in this wonderful psalm about God's presence in our lives which makes my previous thought more plausible, more relevant, and more reassuring of God's love for me, for all of us who serve Him.

David continues:

"Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence? If I ascend into heaven, You are there; if I make my bed in hell, behold, You are there. If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, even there Your hand shall lead me, and Your right hand shall hold me. If I say 'Surely the darkness shall fall on me,' even the night shall be light about me; indeed, the darkness shall not hide from You, but the night shines as the day; the darkness and the light are both alike to You." (verses 7-12)

What he's saying is that regardless of where he is or whatever the circumstances, God is always near. He doesn't abandon us in our need, and indeed He cares about everything that concerns us. And if we can't understand the truth of those words, listen to the next section that literally blows me away!

"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." (verses 13-16)

"How precious also are Your thoughts to me, O God! How great is the sum of them! If I should count them, they would be more in number than the sand; when I awake, I am still with you."  (verses 17-18)

I absolutely love sharing this Scripture with people who think God doesn't love them, because the words prove God's hand upon each life. The Scripture make it so obvious that God knew us before He even made us, or knit us together in our mother's womb, considering every part and parcel of our being, our personalities and our physical appearance, His masterpiece by design. And verse 16 implies that we each have a book with our names written on it, listing every detail of our life, the life He ordained for each of us to live. God the Father who says in Jeremiah 29:11, "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope." Imagine God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit all having a confab about what each of us would be like - start to finish! He knew every little thing about us, down to the minutest detail. He knew who would love and serve Him, too. Knowing every detail of our lives, giving us free will to make our own decisions, He still chose us! Actually, the Scriptures were written by Israel, in this psalm by David, for Israel, but as His remnant believers, we have been grafted into the vine and are partakers of the inheritance. 

In verses 19-22 David speaks of God's protection against our enemies and against those who are His enemies, who profane His name. Then he ends with verses 23-24:

"Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me and know my anxieties; and see if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting."

These words I have hidden in my heart, and daily I lift them as a prayer for my own life, as I want to live holy before Him. Growing in His grace and become more like Jesus in every way. This is the life we strive to have, obedience to our Father and LORD. In this desperate world we now live in, we must show others, particularly the vulnerable youth the Jesus is the answer for their every need. He meets them where they are at, accepts them for who they are, and molds them into faithful followers. In a world where everyone wants to do what they want, when they want, and how they want, it is refreshing to see the hungry and thirst for righteousness that we see in the generation of today. They don't need programs, they need transparency and honesty. They are searching for authenticity that they obviously have not found in any other source. Jesus is the only way, and they are hungry for light. May we shine in the darkness. May our motives be pure.

Day 195 Let the Arrows Fly

 

7/14/2026

"Though I walk  in the midst of trouble, You will revive me;

You will stretch out Your hand against the wrath of my

enemies, and Your right hand will save me.

The LORD will perfect that which concerns me;

Your mercy, O LORD, endures forever; do not forsake

the works of Your hands."

Psalm 138:7-8

 

Yesterday my day was confusing and upsetting. The disturbing details of the day have not fully been resolved, and I don't know whether they ever will be - that is, in my lifetime. And since it involves my actual life and well-being, naturally I would be concerned and even upset, but I was actually angry. And I am not an angry person. Although I realized the true source of the difficulties, fully recognized it as a spiritual battle, I still found it impossible to surrender the situation and my worries to God. I had reached a point in my life where enough was enough, and this situation had to stop. But it was only the tip of the iceberg for the arrows and fiery darts of the enemy flying my way. I felt so helpless and alone, unable to dodge one more attack. I recalled the many times we've prayed for Israel's physical battles on every battle front, seven to be exact, and then a another strategic ambush from social media would compound all the damage. 

I realize that because I speak so openly about trusting God in the midst of troubles, and say all the right things, lining them up with scriptures, that I am not immune to attack myself. In fact intercessors have huge bullseyes on our backs, spiritual targets, because we are standing in the gap, making up the hedge. And we encounter war in a different sense in our own lives. It's part of the calling. Usually when I get hit by the enemy, I am able to shrug it off, because I know better. But this time, the arrows were flying from all directions, and I had no place to turn, in the natural. I have grown so weary over the past months that I began to think about my being alone, without a human being who could really be supportive, not tangibly at least. My son, Daniel, tries very hard to understand, but he has his own battles. There was a tug of war between my head and my heart, plus my physical endurance has been low, so the enemy was trying to drag me back down the rabbit hole. Feelings resurfaced, and I was not happy with myself, or anyone else. But, God met me where I was, and Holy Spirit picked me back up, so I could focus. That's all I needed, and He's all I wanted, because I have experienced His Presence so often during times such as this one. Even Paul the Apostle was no immune to despair.

Many times when spiritual attacks come our human response is to reach out to a person, and I did end up calling a friend for prayer. Not for conversation, although I cried a bit and shared, but simply having someone who truly understood the struggle pray with me. I am grateful for my friend's support and for being willing to stand with me, even though she did not know the need, she understood the desperation. She knew intuitively, because she'd been at that very place many times before. 

There are times when we need the calm assurance of a fellow intercessor, so we can refocus on Jesus, our Commander of the Armies of Heaven. I was too upset to hear His still small voice. All I could hear was the incessant chatter of the enemy.  Sometimes, in the pressing, in the process of pruning, God allows things to happen, and  I do understand the necessity of that, spiritually speaking, as we must be found faithful. We have to endure the pain and struggles to be made into vessels of honor fit for the Master's use. But it hurts, and I didn't understand why it was happening again. And God was silent in my dilemma. Maybe a nudge or two by Holy Spirit, but no real conversation. I felt like Elijah trudging off through the desert to get to the mountains to find God when Jezebel put a hit out on him. Sometimes I can laugh at myself when I begin to read scripture, reminding myself of Biblical history, applying it to my own situation. Often it's not something to laugh about, but our response to trials sometimes is laughable, especially when so-called seasoned veterans should know better. We are continually learning. And thank God for that!

Today began with a note of encouragement, and a bit of defiance against the enemy's tactics, but not by my hand. I had already considered the logic myself, before receiving a call of encouragement. By that time I kinda knew the direction I needed to go in hopefully resolving my dilemma, and if successful, it can prove helpful to many others. As Jesus said to His disciples in John 16:33: "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

Day 193 Rest for Your Souls

 

7/12/2026

"Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden,

and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you

and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart,

and you will find rest for your souls.

For My yoke is easy and My burden is light."

Matthew 11:28-30  

 

Last night I attended an online Harvest Crusade held at Angel Stadium for the 37th year! The stadium was packed, and many gave their hearts to the Lord Jesus. Now Harvest begins the process of disciplining the converts who will make Harvest their home church, and those who will be attending online services will hopefully become involved in the Discipleship Community online, of which I am a part. So there's much follow up to be done and much excitement seeing new believers grow in Christ. 

It was a great evening with powerful worship by Michael W. Smith, Phil Wickham, Taya, Kari Jobe and her husband Cody Carnes, and the Harvest Ministry. The event began with a short documentary about America's 250 years and an enormous American Flag was held in place on the field by many, many volunteers, as tribute was made to the flag. Michael W. Smith sang, and the crusade kicked off with worship and dedication. Pastor Greg presented a message about the after life - life after we die and what that means. Are we ready to meet the Master and give an account for our lives lived here on earth? It's a sobering question, and one we will all have to answer. At the end, while Kari and Cody led worship, there was a fireworks display lighting up the sky, giving praise to our God of all Creation. The event ended, but now the work begins.

This morning I awakened to the sad news of Senator Lindsay Graham's untimely death. My heart grieves for his family and for the tremendous loss to our nation. He loved his country, and he was a staunch supporter of Israel and Ukraine. We pray blessings over his family during this time. His death really knocked me for a loop, and I am troubled beyond words. Scripture says for us to number our days, to make each day count, and perhaps his time of service for our Father had been completed. Only God knows these things. What I do know is that a wife lost her husband, and the family is suffering and grieving. We must lift them in prayer, and thank God for the time He loaned this fine champion of faith and loyalty to America. I pray that he is resting well in the arms of his Savior.

While Harvest was bringing in the "harvest" in California, Sean Feucht was holding a Let Him Worship night in Nashville celebrating his sixth year anniversary. When Covid shut down the churches, Sean took to the streets. Although he has been attacked multiple times over the years verbally and physically, he and his family threatened and his property destroyed, he and his young family and his team  continue to go forth sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ! Sean has even held meetings in the Middle East and other areas, wherever God calls, Sean goes. Tonight as he is playing Our God Reigns the power of Holy Spirit brings Heaven down, and I can feel God's Presence even in my home. 

I wish I could express to those who seek, who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for a move of God, just what this feeling is like. I always figured that all churches who are preaching and teaching the Word of God experienced His Presence, but now I am understanding that this is not so. Many do not think that all the gifts of the Spirit operate in the church today. And then others pick and choose what they feel is true or not. There are so many things I do not understand, but I can read clearly the words of Jesus, and He did say to His disciples that not everyone would understand. In fact they were not meant to know. He spoke in parables, and He said He used them to speak to His disciples, so they would understand. There are many mysteries in Scripture, but one day, if we are faithful, we will see Him, and He will answer all our questions.

I do know that for those who accepted and believed in Him received rest to their souls. It is the same today. There are so many distractions vying for our attention, the enemy using anything and everything to distract us from reaching out to a lost and dying world, from even seeing the great need of another. May we be found laboring when the Son of God returns in this day.                                                                       

Day 194 Triple Attack

 

7/13/2026

"O God, defend me from the charges of these merciless,

deceitful men. For you are God, my only place of refuge. Why

have you tossed me aside? Why must I mourn at the 

oppression of my enemies? Oh, send out your light and your

truth - let them lead me. Let them lead me to Your Temple on Your

holy mountain, Zion. There I will go to the altar of God my exceeding joy,

and praise Him with my harp. O God - my God! O my soul, why

be so gloomy and discouraged? Trust in God. I shall again praise Him

for His wondrous help; He will make me smile again, for He is my God!"

Psalm 43 NLT  

 

It's all out war here on the home front, and although my faith is strong, and my heart is full of the joy of the Lord, my knees are a little feeble at the moment. I called a friend for prayer this morning. I'm glad I had one to call. Someone who's been there, and she doesn't become overwhelmed if I am a bit rattled - momentarily. She promised to pray for me during the day, and I know she will. She said I could call her anytime, and I know she meant it. Do you know how few people say it and actually mean it?

My son is tip-toeing around today, trying to be supportive, but he doesn't know how. I must admit that I'd walk carefully around me if I was him. It has been encouraging having him with me, but I don't feel that I have encouraged him as much as he needs. A mother always wants the best for her children, and a she-bear does not like it when someone speaks harshly and wrongly against her bear cubs. My quiet, kind side has been challenged in recent months. Although I am very forgiving, as it's easy to forgive when one has been forgiven so much, I still have my moments when the hurt is so deep. Seeing my Savior's face, as He hang dying for my sins is something I can never forget. And I've seen much in my life. I don't always understand why God allows me to see things that I cannot hope to make another person understand. It's like that now. When I try to speak I get tongue-tied. I see the blank stares or hear the silence, and the conversation quickly changes. But, forgiveness, is easier than remembering, and I want to forget.

I'm in a troubling place today...actually it started on Friday or Saturday when the mail came in. One letter can change a world. Then one domino falls, and another, and soon there's an avalanche of bizarre things happening. All on a weekend that is dedicated to God. I wish I could say that I recognized the attack for what it was - a spiritual battle, but no, I am having a few hard days. 

My Israeli friend, Chaim shared the above psalm when he reported on the war front today, and it seemed to fit my situation. If the soldiers who have spent 1011 consecutive days on active duty can continue to hold the line, then I can most definitely stand on the wall as a watchman. I can also stand with our American military personnel still there defending our freedom. 

As I write these words, I am listening to live worship from Israel, and it is most comforting hearing the words "Hallelujah, shalom. Shalom, eternal Lord. We are not alone." Earlier I was listening to worship music from Bethel Music, and some of the words were so relevant to my feelings. I've also been listening to a documentary about Rich Mullins' life, and that brings my heart home. He was someone who understood without being told. He just saw into the heart or the spirit - things only God knows. But I understand that well, as I am the same. People we hang around, who are our friends, listen, show interest, and they try hard to follow and understand, but there is no way to explain what is seen, heard, or understood. It's weird to most people. And I admit the experience is surreal. It can become very lonely, and it makes friendships very rare. I don't even know if I am making sense now. Probably not.

The day is dwindling to a close, and it feels as if I have accomplished very little, unless being calm, sitting and listening can be considered as doing something. I admit that I am extremely tired, and I'd love to drift into a quiet sleep and find rest for my soul. 

Perhaps tomorrow will bring relief.  

Day 192 Desperate Enough Yet?!

 

7/11/2026 

"Study to show yourselves approved unto God, 

a workman that needs not to be ashamed,

rightly dividing the word of truth."

2 Timothy 2:15

 

Does anyone really understand what Paul is saying in the verse above? It doesn't seem like it should be a foreign concept, but it appears that many do not take the advice to heart. This seems right up there with putting on the whole armor, that is not real actual armor like soldiers use, so maybe that's why it's left on the shelf each day along with the oil of prayer. That's an even more distant thought. I think I'm the one who coined that phrase "be well-oiled with prayer," as I've never seen it in text, nor have I heard anyone say it, and yet, there it is in Ephesians 6:18. I'm beginning to sound like Baby Trump who tries to let the audience know that he's always right. Not so, as I am learning each day, and that is a good thing, actually. If someone thinks he already knows it all, he will be sorely and sadly enlightened when we see Jesus face to face. Personally, I intend on learning daily, sitting at His feet. I want to go on long walks with Him, hikes would be better, but that means climbing up hills and passing through brush and swinging branches, occasional brush fires, and predators at every turn. But I do that now! Still, following Him is the best path to take, the narrow way, the less chosen way. Once we're with Him in eternity, we won't have to worry about any evil coming near us. I can only imagine how wonderful that will be!

So why was Paul exhorting young Timothy to know and continue to study the Word? He realized that all men are tempted, but those who strive to serve God will be sought out by the enemy to defeat, isolate, and destroy their testimony. Paul reminds Timothy of the sound training of his mother and grandmother, as he has witnessed first hand the betrayal of those who pretend to be a friend while scheming and making evil plans to the contrary. He knows that many teachers of false doctrine will come. When Paul wrote these words he was in a Roman prison cell, but he wanted to encourage Timothy to stand fast, reminding him of the sound teaching he had received from childhood, reminding him that:

"All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work."  (2 Timothy 3:16-17)

He charged Timothy to preach the Word, being ready in season and out, always ready to give the reason of hope within him. This is as we all should be, passionate about sharing the whole counsel of the Word, because there will come a time when scoffers would come, those who would teach to words that tickled the ears of their hearers. Compromising the Word of the Lord, and yet this is not new. It has been so such the beginning. I heard a testimony from an evangelist who was experiencing his 50th anniversary as an evangelist, a soul winner, following the mandate of Christ Jesus as He ascended to heaven. Back in the early days of his ministry, he was a pastor, but he was not able to remain so, because he was asked to compromise the gospel. Thank the Lord that he stood on his own, and God has blessed so many through this ministry.

Many are praying for revival, a mighty spiritual awakening in our era, as things in this world are increasingly worsening, and they will continue to do so, unless the believers in Christ, the church, get busy and do the work we were given to do: 

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

Revival begins with repentance, and it requires a hunger and thirst for righteousness. Much self-examination precedes a mighty move of God. It requires surrender, absolute, total surrender to the will of God. The cost is heavy, so have to be serious. The question is are we desperate for change? for revival? Or are we waiting out the Rapture. This is not the time for passivity. This is a time for action. But first, we must ask for it, with open hearts, worshiping God. Worship is your highest praise and your best weapon! Suit up!

Are you desperate? 

Day 191 Troubling Times

 

7/10/2026

"Cease not to pray, and if the answer tarries,

wait. God will come, and He can 

never come too late."

Daily Walk

 

I openly admit that there are many things that I do not know or understand, and, quite honestly, I don't care or want to know. Some people have to know the answer to every question and somehow explain everything away, but life is just not that way. Besides which, the only one who has the answers is God, whose existence to many is considered as myth, or at least in my family. It's amazing what modern day counselors and psychologists can do to manipulate minds to suit their mindset and increase their popularity and bookings. It's easier to put the blame on another rather than have a person face their own self-made demons. I'm witnessing some pretty disturbing things, if I thought of it that way. Fortunately for me, I trust in the God I serve, so I don't have to be concerned about the tricks of the devil and what he is attempting to do to certain members of my family. I may have done some things wrong in my parenting years, but I did take my children to church, teach them to know and love Jesus, and to know God's word. I tried to teach them right from wrong and respect for others, doing the honorable thing, even when not popular. I even taught how to take care of themselves and taught them household skills and basics. The Bible says if we train up our children in this way, then all that training won't leave them. It sticks, and I am counting on that truth. So in essence, satan can try all he wants to steal, kill, and destroy, but he can't have what doesn't belong to him, and my family is off limits.

I've been blessed by God, and in the last twenty years of my life He has placed me in positions where I could learn and grow, so that I could enhance and encourage someone else's life. I always wanted to be a medical missionary, and somehow God pulled that off in a rather tortuous, winding path, rather than a straight laced manner I may have preferred. But then, my life has been anything but conventional. Every time I sit down to write, I lose focus and my mind becomes blank. I can know so clearly what I want or need to say, sit down, place my fingers on the keys, and NOTHING! It's hard to share some things, but I'm trying to stick with the mandate to write.

My mornings are pretty much the same - hungry cats inside and outside, all saying "feed me first!" in their cat language that makes it quite obvious that they have been waiting for me to drag my lazy carcass from the bed. It doesn't matter to them that I haven't slept well, or that I spent a lot of time pandering to their needs the day before. Cats tend to be "me first" and a rather ungrateful species. I hope little Mina does not pick up that characteristic. After I grab my coffee I love to crawl up into my chair with my journal and Bible, look out my window and talk to Abba about anything - everything, before the prayer watch. And from there my day is as it is. Very few plans other than "get it done" with tasks, housework, appointments, and the like. It sounds simple, but many times it is overwhelming before it even begins.

This afternoon I plan to finish mowing the grass that is so dense and high from all the rainfall. That is unless it rains - again, but then I should be grateful as New Mexico, Utah, and Colorado all have forest  fires going on right now. Many places are facing drought, even here in Virginia. We are blessed, at least in my area, to have had some rain. The fires in Northern New Mexico are not in the direction of my daughter's home, and I pray that they do not cross any of the territory that the fires in 2022 affected. The restoration from the devastation of those fires is still underway, and the water systems still have not been restored so the drinking water remains unsafe. The residents still have to use bottled water in the Las Vegas, New Mexico area where my daughter lives. It doesn't seem to be a priority to the powers that be, as circumstances remain unchanged after all this time. So I pray that the fires will be extinguished and people, animals - livestock and forest animals - land and homes will be spared. Lord, please send the storm clouds and rain down Your mercy!

Picking back up my writing, it is now later in the day, I look back over the above thoughts and considerations, and here's how my day progressed. I did get most of the yard cut before the rain fell, but with Shabbat approaching, it will have to wait. I only have one side remaining to be cut, so it won't require too much exertion, I hope! I am seriously considering the purchase of my John Deere lawnmower while the sale is on. I have a few days left to consider.

The prayer call was high energy as we considered all that had happened in a short period of time. Our President here in America has been in Turkey at a meeting, and negotiations with Iran were halted after Iran decided to blow up a few things with our government in mind. One of my favorite sayings is that one cannot dance with the devil, but then we don't really know the complex workings of the mind of our government leaders. I don't tend to deviate from my confidence in the often confusing or somewhat concerning actions of our commander in chief, because I know that God has His hand on those He has placed in positions of authority. My trust and hope is not in man or machine, rather it is in God! As an intercessor we often get a bit harried by the continuous stream of news that's filled with lies and distortions, but we settle down, get together in our meetings, and we agree in prayer on what God's word says. Death and life are in the power of the tongue according to Proverbs 18:21, so guard your speech!

One of my scripture readings for today was Psalm 135 that speaks of God's blessing on Israel, reminding them of all He's done for them, beginning with delivering them from the hands of Pharaoh. God speaks about the enemies of Israel in verses 15 - 18 which could easily characterize our enemies we have today:

"The idols of the heathen are silver and gold, the work of men's hands. They have mouths, but they speak not; eyes have they, but they see not; they have ears, but they hear not; neither is there any breath in their mouths. They that make them are like unto them: so is every one that trusts in them." 

Governments make idols of wealth and power, and they become back patters and flatterers as long as it gets them where they need or want to go. Rather than obedience to God's laws, they follow what seems right or convenient to themselves, and instead of fear and reverence of the Lord, they tend to follow the other enemy's way of living. And yet, although there are many who bemoan and even rant and rail against the hypocrisy, they do nothing other than that, when as citizens we have the privilege of making change if we only stand up, speak out, and exercise our God-given right to vote in elections. Even then though, I am aghast to discover that unwise people vote for those who would lead our nation to folly and destruction. Are there that many people so blind that they cannot see, deaf that they cannot hear? This leaves me confused to say the very least! Baffled, and very ashamed that things have come to such a state. 

Is anyone paying attention? Does it matter to you? If so, what are you doing about it?! 

"And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, 

and not to faint; saying, 'There was in a city a judge, which feared not God, 

neither regarded man: and there was a widow in that city; 

and she came unto him, saying, "Avenge me of mine adversary."

and he would not for a while: but afterward he said within himself, 

Though I fear not God, nor regard man; yet because this widow troubles me,

 I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me.

And the Lord said, Hear what the unjust judge saith.

And shall not God avenge his own elect, which cry day and night unto him, 

though he bear long with them? I tell you that he will avenge them speedily. 

Nevertheless when the Son of man comes, 

shall he find faith on the earth?"

  Luke 18:1-8