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. 

Day 170 In Christ We Are Free!

 

6/19/2026

"We do not bow our knees to tyrants, only to our God and Savior Lord of All" 

 

Today we observe what has come to be called Juneteenth National IndependenceDay, commemorating the freedom from slavery granted through the Emancipation Proclamation signed on January 1, 1863, by President Abraham Lincoln. According to the story Texas was the farthest of the Confederate states, and the slave owners made no attempts to free the slaves which made Lincoln's proclamation "unenforceable without military intervention, which eventually came nearly 2.5 years later," according to an article by the National Park Service. On June 19, 1865 the Emancipation Proclamation became law, and in 2021 this celebration was made a national holiday.

In an article written today it reads: 

"Over the years, the Juneteenth celebrations grew. They spread across Texas, then the South, and eventually they captured the imaginations and hearts of the entire nation." 

"As we celebrate this day, we offer gratitude to the God who inspired our founders to declare, "All men are created equal." We forgive the hard hearts of so many who limited those freedoms for so long. We honor the tenacity of those who fought for so many years on behalf of abolition and ending segregation."

 

"Most importantly, we recognize the power of Jesus Christ to not only give us earthly freedom, but to give us spiritual freedom. In His own words, He reminds us... "So if the Son sets you free, you are truly free" (John 8:36)."

 

Over the weeks and months preceding America's 250th years as a nation, many articles have been written about the birth of our nation and events that have followed it, as America was being shaped into the nation it has become today. There have been many wars fought to make our land free from tyranny and oppression and to keep it free from terrorist attacks, but sadly many things have also happened to bring shame and regret. At one time a few years ago there was a mad rush and an angry wave of mayhem as statues were being removed and buildings burned, books removed from libraries in an attempt to remove the evil from our memories and from the conscience of a nation. While much has happened to shame our nation throughout the years, we need to remember the good, the bad and the ugly, because it is part of history, and hopefully as a country we have learned to correct the mistakes and be proud of the successes. 

 I say that in optimism, because that is my hope for our nation's future. Regretfully, bad things, tragic things still happen that stains our nation's conscience. This year our President proclaimed our country as One Nation Under God once more, and it is my prayer that it will be so, but it is not happening yet. As the Church sleeps lawlessness and corruption continue, and because of divided lawmakers and extremist/hate groups, evil continues to disrupt and destroy life. Since our new President took office many improvements have been made, and many miracles have resulted, but there are still many who are opposed to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness unless it involves selfishness and power plays. The only answer can be found in true repentance and a major change in the hearts of many who are determined to destroy the American dream on which our country was founded. The answer can only be found when our nation turns back to God. Jesus Christ died to save all from sin. Through Him we can all have new life, eternal life and relationship with our Holy God who desires to share eternity with all who accept His Son as Redeemer and Lord. May today be the beginning of a true wave of freedom that brings Heaven to earth and truly is a day of celebration!   

Day 169 The Proper Response

 

6/18/2026 

"O come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the Lord our Maker."

 

Psalm 95:6

 

 

I can't seem to wipe this silly smile off my face. It almost seems disrespectful, should anyone see it, but yet I saw the same knowing on the face of another intercessor this morning. But before I go further in that thought, I want to finish sharing the saga of the two sisters - Mary and Martha.

 

As it turns out later after Jesus has been in the home of Lazurus and his sisters a few short days prior, Lazurus became quite ill, and he died. Jesus had been informed by carrier that Lazurus was sick and in need of his friend, but Jesus chose to remain where He was staying, only a short distance away. Jesus did so, because He listens to what His Father instructs Him to do, knowing the better plan and the appointed times. The story is told in John 11:1-44. When Jesus receives the word that "Lord, behold, he whom You love is sick" (verse 3), His response to his disciples was "This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God may be glorified through it" (verse 4). Jesus knew His appointed hour and that it was near, and somehow God had made Lazurus part of the plan, the end game. 

 

In two days Jesus tells the disciples "Let us go to Judea again" (verse 7), and later in verses 11 and 14-15 tells them "Our friend Lazarus sleeps, but I go that I may wake him up.... Lazarus is dead. And I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, that you may believe. Nevertheless, let us go to him." By the time Jesus arrived in Bethany Lazurus had been dead and sealed in a tomb for four days. Martha was the first to bolt out of the house when she heard Jesus had arrived at their home, while Mary remained inside. Did Mary realize that He was there? Generally when news of Jesus coming was known Mary was the first one out the house practically tackling Him she was so excited to see Him, to feed on His every word. But not this day. The first words from Martha's mouth were the same that later came from Mary's: "Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died. But even now I know that whatever You ask of God, God will give You."

 

Jesus assures Martha that her brother will rise again (verse 23), to which Martha responds that she knows that he will in the resurrection in the last days (verse 24), but Jesus quickly corrects her in verses 25-26: "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this?"  Mary eventually comes running out and shares the same concerns, and in the end Jesus does what He came to do, He raised Lazurus from the dead to the amazement of all present. It's a great story with deeper meaning, so I invite all to read it and meditate on what it means to you. It's a matter of perception.

 

People will always say that God has a plan, so we don't need to worry, but they see very dimly as through a dark mirror, clouded by preconceived notions or the plots of the enemy who understands that weak minds not rooted and grounded in the Word will follow anyone who seems to know exactly what is going on. The one with the loudest voice, just like satan, twists the words around to make it sound good or holy to the Christian deceived and listening. If we study Genesis and the incident between Eve and the serpent, we can see that satan is a great conniver and great at twisting words, making the unaware believe it. We need to be aware, especially the Church at large. There's a lot of misconceptions and outright lies and fabrications being pronounced from pulpits today that need to be silenced by our Authority. But, few leaders or even lay persons seem not to want to speak out against wrongs. But God certainly is reigning in deceivers and exposing many in these last days, as He said He would do. 

 

There is much hearsay and many accusations or opinions - "Here's my take on it...!" I admit, on the surface level things are looking a little bleak, and there appears to be back stabbing and betrayal blow by blow, but what do we truly know? And whose report should we care about? That doesn't mean that we sit idly by and do nothing. It certainly doesn't mean that we change our citizenship, move to another State, or climb into a hole until things are back to normal! Has anything truly been normal?! Whose to tell?! Whose report do we heed? 

 

The reason I can stay calm, although I am very close to the eye of the storm, and I can have what appears to some as a silly smile on my face is because I know in Whom I have believed (2 Timothy 1:12), and my heart can remain steadfast (Psalm 57:7-11) as I place my trust in a God who never sleeps (Psalm 121:4) and who upholds me with His righteous right hand (Isaiah 41:10). I know that around me are many angels who guard me and protect me from harm (Psalms 27, and 91). And I know that if I put my trust in Him, He will direct my path (Proverbs 3:5-6). Should I go on, or do you get the picture. Do you know that these promises are for all believers in Jesus?!

 

So our response is not to sit on the fence with our legs dangling or hide in a closet praying Jesus will hurry up and come! We should be praying His will be done on earth as it is in heaven. That covers salvation of all who do not know Him, because He doesn't want anyone to go to hell. He wants all to be saved, beginning with His Chosen People through whom salvation comes to us as Gentiles (1 Timothy 2:4-6 and Romans 1:16; John 4:22).

 

Our response is to repent, humbly bow before our gracious Lord and praise His Name, worship and adore Him. We suit up according to Ephesians 6:10-20, and then having done all we stand! Worship is a huge part of my life, as it should be with any believer. The tribe of Judah always lead the way into battle, and Judah means Praise! It's a great way to begin your day, continued through the day, and end your day! 

What's going on now is very disturbing to me, to many who understand Bible prophecy. But I also know human nature, and I know about discernment. Best of all I know and trust my God who gives me discernment. So, before you panic, or if you're on the side of rejoicing in someone's pain, take some time and sit in the secret place and consult the One who knows it all. Begin first with an attitude adjustment if you ever take joy in another's misery and claim to know Christ as Savior and Lord.

Day 168 Uniquely Me

 

6/17/2026

 "Know who you are - what God

has called you to do."

 

God has a way of getting my attention, and I have to laugh, because He's ever so subtle...well, not always! The lessons He wants to teach me are those I have already been revisiting in my mind, and then with a gentle reminder here and there, answers come. In attempting to put ideas together for my story, the one the Lord wants me to tell, I re-visit again and again certain passages. It seems as if everything I do these days is a reminder, but I imagine that's how it can be when I'm supposed to be writing the story - His story, as my life is certainly that and more.

Today in our pre-prayer message we visited an oft repeated one in sermons found in Luke 10:38-42 about Jesus' visit to the home of Lazurus and his sisters, Mary and Martha. While Martha hurries to prepare refreshments for Jesus and His disciples Mary sat quietly listening intently to His every word. Her gaze transfixed on one thing. Martha became so flustered at one point that she mentioned to Jesus that Mary should be helping her. Jesus replied: "Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things. But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her." 

That's all that was written in the scripture portion, so the rest is left to us to ponder. I imagine Martha felt hurt and a bit betrayed by Mary and Jesus. I can imagine I'd want to hide in the kitchen and avoid the stares of the others present in the room who were obviously wondering what her problem was. About this time the devil was probably feeling her mind with all kind of thoughts. Then aren't we all a bit prone to jumping to conclusions in our minds from time to time?! But that comes from a person who is extremely self-centered and full of self-pity or from someone who has been hurt and feels left out. Two sisters, two personalities. I love the way Dallas Jenkins portrayed the scene in my beloved series, The Chosen. First of all the disciples and some other followers are present as they journey to Lazurus' home in Bethany, so this unexpected stop probably caught Martha by surprise, maybe with mixed emotions. I know if thirteen men showed up on my doorstep I'd be scrambling to throw together some goodies, because that's the way I was taught to honor guests. The Jewish culture of hospitality is so beautiful, as is the Southern culture in which I was born. But I was not taught to offer a bowl of water to wash the dust from their feet after the long walk down dusty roads wearing sandals. Imagine how refreshing clean feet feel after walking dusty roads for hours at a time. I can't even get into bed at night without clean feet on my cool sheets. That's a gift we take for granted, but that's another story.

As Martha goes into the kitchen trying to pull together a little food, she is first of all in a well-prepared kitchen with so much fruit, nuts, spices, cheese, and freshly baked breads. She must spend her life baking, cooking, preparing, and there are only three in the household. Nonetheless as we watch her throw it all together hurriedly, as she knows these men are hungry, because men are always hungry, she prepares a platter of elegantly designed snacks for these guys to enjoy. And well they did and asked for more before everyone was served. But as the wine flowed, and the meal served, Mary just sat there cow-eyed, entranced by Jesus' every word. I know that's where I'd be, as reading His words in scripture does that for me. Martha tried to get Mary's attention each time she walked past her or reached over her with the serving plate, but no, Mary was hanging onto every word from her Master's mouth. So that's when Martha spoke up. In the scene Jesus had Martha sit down beside Him, empty tray in hand, and He talked to her so gently. I can envision the scene as I write it, as I rewrite my own account of how I feel Jesus would respond. He listened to her heart cry as only the God of love would do, because He knew Martha, He saw her. He is, after all, El Roi, the God who sees. The God who understands and never condemns our pure desires. He created us to be who we are supposed to be. He let her know she was so appreciated, and He invited her into this time, this space, and let her know she was welcomed. He wasn't short and dry with her. He invited her to stop and listen, to choose the better way as Mary. Who could refuse so warm a gesture of immense love. 

Mary at this point is so overcome by Martha's feelings being hurt that she apologizes to her and responds that she should have been more considerate. I can't blame her though. I'd be right there plopped down at His feet, listening, reveling in every word. No one realized how short a time they would actually have with Him in His earthly journey. Mary and Martha, although seemingly polar opposites in personality and gifting, loved each other, and each had a servant's heart. I believe that each of us, if we're honest, would see that we have a little of both personalities in us, but there is a lean towards the one to the other, as we do each have unique callings and purposes. Discovering those qualities about ourselves often takes time and either years of failure or settling for whatever happens. We let go of our dreams for various reasons, but they never seem to leave our thoughts as possibilities.  

No one should consider themselves a failure if they have sincerely tried or made attempts to do what they felt compelled to do. A person who is a failure is one who has never tried, who is content to talk about it, but never attempts anything. Life has a way of handing us curve balls. I know a lot about that. Some days I'd love to be a Martha who stayed in the kitchen and prepared feast after feast, but that being done, I'd want to serve every homeless person or those down on their luck a feast fit for a king. I don't want to fatten up those who have the blessing of three meals a day, rather I want to feed those who do not know what it is like to sit at a table and enjoy an unhurried meal with a few friends who understand and listen. Those who do not look down and consider them less than. That's my heart. Yet on the other hand, I lean more towards the Mary personality as I want to feed on every word that comes from the mouth of Jesus. Then, I'd want to share that meal with everyone I encounter. A feast on top of a feast. That's my heart. That's my dream! 

Day 167 Disappointment

 

6/16/2026 

"Thy word is true from the beginning, and every one

of thy righteous judgments endureth for ever."

Psalm 119:160

 

This morning's Tuesday worship watch with Kehilat in Carmel was difficult for many, because there has been so much uncertainty within the past few days. There appears to be a great reversal in thoughts and actions, but then who really knows what anyone is really thinking or what is actually true or not, or what goes on behind closed doors or late at night. Each day news comes our way, and hopefully it comes from honest, verifiable sources, as opposed to most of what we hear most of the time. We also have to take into account what is true or fabricated based on fictitious reports developed by AI. There is a great deception going on with regard to AI, but it is not totally surprising as it has been foretold and forewarned. It just becomes harder when innocent people, kindhearted souls who care about their country are affected. I feel that way about a great many situations, but then that is the life of an intercessor. The assignments do not begin and end with our own personal concerns. But this morning the feelings expressed in this prayer watch were personal for me. But I am learning to quiet my soul and remain steadfast in my faith, my eyes fixed on the only One who matters. As the meeting began, the leader first said, speaking to the online audience the words: "We forgive you." As the music played, spirits were lifted, there was dancing, and much praise to the God who never fails and who hold the whole world in His hands. To the God who has saved Israel and will continue to save Israel. He is the only one who can. 

Just as I've been stuck into my personal study of Hebrews for quite some time, I've also been spending time in the Psalms. So many times the psalmist would cry out to God from the depth of his soul asking God "How long, O Lord?" I know I've asked that question myself a few times, although I never want to question God's ways. We just want to see an end to brutality. Over the past months I've had my head buried in Richard Wurmbrand's testimony of his imprisonment and torture by the Communists in Tortured for Christ. After his release from prison until the day he died he worked to spread the word about those who are being persecuted for their belief in Christ and their unwillingness to deny Him to buy their freedom. Wurmbrand came to the United States to awaken the church. That seems to be a common theme, even from his day to present. Just with standing for Israel, no one really wants to hear about the suffering of others. There are many, like myself, called to pray, stand in the gap, speak out to government officials, and to support financially when possible, and if God calls - Go! I've been waiting for my clear call to go for most of my life, beginning from childhood. I don't know if I'm just not listening or if God truly wants me topside to wake up the church.

Sadly I don't know what it will take to get anyone to listen. I sent out several invitations to pastors of churches within this local vicinity and a few a little further out, and only two pastors reached out to me in acknowledgement. The information I shared was straight from the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem, and although it is excellent, there is total clarity written in the Word of God. From Genesis to Revelation the Word speaks. Front to back, page upon page. Why do we make it so difficult, and why do we believe a lie? Why don't we check for ourselves? Why take the word of anyone other than God the Father Himself?! Consult with the Author and the Finisher of our faith?!

As I'm trying to pen these words I am fighting sleep. I have been so physically exhausted lately. Maybe it's a spiritual attack or maybe my body is worn out. Regardless, the past few days of listening to news, watching the responses of the people I love, has made me a bit battle fatigued. Add to that the rigors of trying to find someone who actually wants to work to help me fix the things that need repair at my parents' home. Life is like that. So my remedy is turn on the worship music!

I know I've shared the lyrics of a song written by Jesus Image called Give Me Oil, but I feel a need to share again. Jesus is returning for His Bride, the Church, and we must be ready. Our oil lamps must be full, and we must be found faithful, actively pursuing the Kingdom of Heaven, just as He commanded us to do before He ascended to Heaven. We must care about what concerns Him. Another song says Forget about yourself, concentrate on Him, and worship Him." That's what it's all about.

Give Me Oil

My heart is longing for a touch from Your hand  

My spirit is yearning to be revived in Your glory again

Turn my heart to You; in Your presence, Lord, I am made new

Give me oil in my lamp and light the flame again

I want to burn for You  

 O Lord I'm sorry for when I've wandered astray

You're faithful to find me

Create within me a clean heart again 

Turn my heart to You, in Your presence I am made new

Give me oil in my lamp and light the flame again

I want to burn for You 

Find me waiting, Find me ready

Find me longing, burning for You. 

Give me oil in my lamp and light the flame again

I want to burn for you  

The song is absolutely what I needed tonight to help me accomplish what needs to be done, and it is a wonderful reminder of where my heart should find peace and rest from the news and from the evil things of this world. I'll leave it at that!

Day 166 Holding Fast

 

6/15/2026

"Let us hold fast the confession of our hope that it waver not;

for He is faithful that promised."

Hebrews 10:23

 

I must say that news has a way of toppling men's faith, especially for those who really have not learned what true faith is. Hebrews 11:1-3 says "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. For by it the elders obtained a good testimony. By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible." Hebrews 11 is the "faith chapter" that speaks of the saints who have already gone to their heavenly reward, who showed the type of faith God admired and recognized, beginning with Abel at the beginning of time.

I am still slowly crawling my way through Andrew Murray's expository book on Hebrews. I picked it up in October 2024, at Abba's insistence. Actually, I was disobedient for quite some time, as it is quite an undertaking and a lot of meat to chew. I read, re-read, and sometimes go back again. Murray goes verse by verse, so even though there are only 13 chapters in Hebrews, it takes time to study to keep it in context and understand related scriptures. When I finish it, I may begin again, but this time I'll try to read it faster. 

The author notes that "more than ever we shall need to hold fast our hope." Later he adds, "Life in the Holiest, in the nearness of God, must be characterized by an infinite hopefulness." Many times I've spoken of the secret place and abiding in Christ. When I see the response of some when I speak this way there's  silence, or some will say they have no idea what I'm talking about. I was speaking with my younger son today, and I was trying to explain to him that I realize that I've always been misunderstood about what I seek in my life. When I was in high school everyone thought I wanted a boyfriend, and perhaps I did just want to be normal and liked, but I wanted to be liked for the right reasons. In reading through my journals of long, long ago, I can see obvious patterns. I mention very little of anything I'm feeling, just things said to me, and my heart is an open book. Another thing I noticed was that I was always asking Abba to forgive me if I did or said anything wrong in asking my questions. I have since then attributed my education of the Bible and history to God's tutorage. If I had a questions I'd look in the Bible, and I'd ask God questions, because adults - when I was young - and adults when I was an adult either didn't have the answer or knew they didn't know the answer but didn't want to say so. It would have been so great had there been transparency back then and even now, because the discussion would be so rich and rewarding, as we searched the scriptures together. No one knows the answers, and we never will until we see Him face to face. I still have so many questions, but I have eternity to talk to God about everything. 

Murray continues his explanation of Entering the Holiest with these thoughts: "As we tarry there God can begin to do His work of grace in power. There the holiness of God can overshadow us, and can be assimilated into our life and character. There we can learn to worship in that true humility and meekness and resignation to God's will, which does not come at once, but in which we may grow up even as Jesus did. There we have to learn the holy art of intercession, so as to pray the prayer that prevails." I want to draw near to God, and I want to be able to listen, because honestly sometimes I don't know how to pray. As I was coming up the basement steps tonight I had to stop and just say aloud to God that very thing. I don't know how to pray right now. I know what the Word says, and I do pray, but I words just fail right now. I am so relieved that Holy Spirit makes intercession. He knows exactly what I am thinking, because He is the one who reminds me of the Words of Jesus. 

And this is the perfect time to draw near to the cross of Christ.