Day 135 Lay It Down

5/15/2025

 "Better a little with the fear of the Lord

than great wealth with turmoil."

Proverbs 15:16 

 

So many days I shake my head at the seeming futility of life as people seemed more concerned with feeding their bellies than their souls, rushing to have more and more. But, even on the worst days, I refuse to give up or give in. Psalm 57:7-8 is one of David's many psalms where he cries out to the Lord to rescue him. When he penned it he was running from Saul who was desperate to kill David, because God had anointed him king over Saul. Saul recognized that his time as king was limited, and the inheritance of his sons was in jeopardy. By this time the demonic spirit controlling Saul had caused a relentless frenzy within him making it necessary for David to move around often just to be safe from Saul's insanity. I feel like that sometimes. The phone rings, and I cringe, until I see the name attached to the number. I am grateful for the Potential Scam callers. At least I can ignore those.

"Be merciful to me, O God, be merciful to me!
For my soul trusts in You;
And in the shadow of Your wings I will make my refuge,
Until these calamities have passed by.

I will cry out to God Most High,
To God who performs all things for me. 

He shall send from heaven and save me;
He reproaches the one who would swallow me up. Selah
God shall send forth His mercy and His truth.

My soul is among lions;
I lie among the sons of men
Who are set on fire,
Whose teeth are spears and arrows,
And their tongue a sharp sword.Be exalted, O God, above the heavens;
Let Your glory be above all the earth.

They have prepared a net for my steps;
My soul is bowed down;
They have dug a pit before me;
Into the midst of it they themselves have fallen. Selah

My heart is steadfast, O God, my heart is steadfast;
I will sing and give praise. Awake, my glory!
Awake, lute and harp!
I will awaken the dawn.

I will praise You, O Lord, among the peoples;
I will sing to You among the nations.For Your mercy reaches unto the heavens,
And Your truth unto the clouds.

Be exalted, O God, above the heavens;
Let Your glory be above all the earth."

It's interesting to me that the people God created to be His Chosen People, to bless them with prestige, honor, wealth, and all riches of heaven and earth, eventually turned on Him, lusting after more power, more money, with greed taking the upper hand in every denial of Him. Enough is never enough for some people. We are included in this mindset also. Each day I am amazed at the things that I observe with my own eyes in the hearts and lives of people I thought loved God with all their hearts, souls, minds, and strength, as they focus on things that will come to nothing. I've said before that I do not begrudge anyone of any good thing, because God desires the best for those who love Him, but this new greed, denying the obvious need of others is daunting. Even in my own family I am witnessing certain signs of what Jesus warned about in the end times. It hurts me and breaks my heart. 

I'm beginning to see a great many things going on that concern or downright scare me, because no one blinks an eye. The enemy has truly blinded the eyes of so many, in whom I've experienced not just anger, but rage poised against me, and I feel helpless to do anything. As I was crying out to the Lord, I heard Him clearly say, "lay it down." Just this evening in my group I counseled a mother struggling with her daughter's lack of interest in going to church or even reluctance in listening to a pastor. Last week I counseled a wife who was frustrated by her husband's seeming lack of interest. As a mother and as a wife I am experiencing and have experienced the same things, and I see in prayers circles the same concerns, the desperation of wives and mothers all over the world, especially in the lives of women who are involved in intercession. We cannot coerce anyone to love God and follow Him. If we have taught our children God's ways as children, then we must trust God's word when He says they will return to Him, just as the prodigal son. The same with a husband. When we nag, we do more harm than good, because he feels defeated if we are constantly harping on the need to do this or that. We must stop trying to help God. I say this to myself. God does not need our help. Holy Spirit has been sent to draw all to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. So, dear ladies, we must lay it down at the feet of Jesus. Trust Him. Trust God's word, and speak His living word over your families and friends. The word of God is our sword. Arm yourself daily with the whole Armor of God found in Ephesians 6 and march forward into truth.

 "What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?  

He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, 

how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?   

Who shall bring a charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies. 

Who is he who condemns? It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen,

 who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us.  

Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?  

Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?  

As it is written:

'For Your sake we are killed all day long; We are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.'

Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.  

For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, 

nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come,  

nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, 

shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in 

Christ Jesus our Lord."

Romans 8:31-39

 

Day 134 Just Another Day

5/14/2025

"In the conflict between Satan and the believer, 

God's child can conquer everything by prayer. 

Is it any wonder that Satan does his utmost to snatch that 

weapon from the Christian, or to hinder him in the use of it?"

 Andrew Murray

 

Is it any wonder that Abba gives me this verse as I wake up, considering my blog from last evening? Over the past few days, the enemy has been gearing up his spiritual attacks against me. Whew, not just against me, but the actual world. Whereas I shouldn't be surprised at this stage of the game, I admit to the frailty, on a personal level mostly. Certain near conversations leave me speechless and clueless long after I have been verbally assaulted and the accuser slamming the phone in my ear. Sometimes all I have to say is "How are you today?" There are times when one moment there is a wonderful time of laughter, sharing, prayer, then out of nowhere there's a switch, and I am left with an open mouth, the phone in my hand, and the sound of dead air. Such as it was last night, when I am left asking Abba what I can do to end this cycle of terror. I used to question whether I heard Him correctly or if I heard Him at all. But I know I did. Two lives have been spared by my obedience in returning home. "Home" has such a welcoming sound as it trips over the tongue, but in my life I wonder where home is for me.

It's raining again today, although it has been slow in sending the downpour. The heavens are thundering, and the sky has darkened, ominously threatening, shaking the ground. My chimes are noisily playing a jazzy version of Amazing Grace, as the wind blows through the trees. I counter the rage from without with the calm music quietly and soothingly keeping rhythm with my typing, safe within my home. My constant "companion" inside my head from several blows to it, have actually lessened, and a croaking frog outside of my window sings in tandem with the clash of thunder that just ripped the sky. 

There's so much I could speak about today, as it seems that all nature is violently protesting some unseen battle within the heavens on our behalf, of which I am keenly aware. It's as if God, in His mercy, grace, and considerable kindness, is blinding us to what actually is taking place within the sphere of man's interpretation. But God leaves nothing to chance or imagination. His ways are so beyond our minimal understanding, and rightly so. He's God, and we are not. Personally, I find that truth refreshing, as I would not want His job. I'm thankful that He maneuvered the thunder to a distance not so close to my bedroom window, as I feared the last blast would split the earth and my house. 

This morning the scripture of the day presented by Pastor Jack Hibbs is found in Job 31:4 and reads, "Does He not see all my ways, and count all my steps?" Job is continuing in ceaseless bantering with his dubious friends, Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar, who have come to encourage Job in his distress. If they are friends, well, let's be cliche in saying, "I'd hate to see his enemies!" This continues until Chapter 38-40 when God can take no more of listening to this dribbling, pointless babble. First, God asks Job a question: "Who is this who darkens counsel by words without knowledge? Now prepare yourself like a man; I will question you, and you shall answer Me." What a retort! Just reading the words pop my eyes to attention, and I swallow hard. 

God does in fact "see all our ways" and "count all our steps," and in a life surrendered to Him, we have no need to worry, come what may, be it saber rattling, accusations, all manner of lewdness and lawlessness and immorality. We can rest assured that regardless of what's coming next, He's here right beside us, and there He'll stay, if we allow Him into our hearts and lives.

The change in mood, from extreme concern to a sigh of relief, in the morning call, brought a great smile to my face and an audible "told ya so" to my lips. If I expect better, imagine how God feels. Psalm 85:10 says "Faithful love and truth have met, righteousness and peace have kissed." Isn't that a beautiful expression of God's grace toward us? I recalled the words of that verse as I read the following: 

"The veil of the flesh has been rent; Christ has entered once for all, having obtained everlasting redemption; the dwelling of God and man has been thrown into one; the Spirit of heaven has been given to signify to us, and to give to us the living experience, that the way into the Holiest has been made manifest. Our entering in, our dwelling in God's presence in the light and nearness and holiness of the Most Holy, is a spiritual, a heavenly reality. It can only be apprehended by the tender, by the perfect conscience, which the Holy Spirit gives to him who is willing to give up all to be saved completely, by the perfect whose senses are exercised to discern good and evil. But to all who are willing to pass through the rent veil of Christ's flesh, to die with Him as He died, and live with Him as He lived, the Holy Spirit will show it; the way into the Holiest is opened up" (Andrew Murray, The Holiest of All, page 293).

It seems as if God has been inviting me to rest awhile longer with Him today, as the question asked today in our discipleship discussion is: "We need to be rooted in Christ as we await His return. What does it mean to “abide” in Christ? Why isn’t it about striving harder, but about staying closer?" I love open book questions where I can share unreservedly about where I am on the page of life today. So here's my humble response:

"Everyone who has come to know me knows that abiding in Christ is my favorite subject, next to spiritual warfare, but actually they are connected, as is all of scripture. The focus is keeping our eyes on Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith. As I was sitting here quietly this morning, abiding in Christ, my prayer calendar had this quotation from Andrew Murray, one my favorite pastors:

'In the conflict between Satan and the believer, God's child can conquer everything by prayer. Is it any wonder that Satan does his utmost to snatch that weapon from the Christian, or to hinder him in the use of it?'

"Abiding in Christ is quietly, meditatively listening to His voice for worship, praise, training, everything there is in Christ. It's work to resist the temptations and distractions the enemy will surely bring to hinder this time, this relationship, but this is where we turn. Prayer is our weapon, worship is our weapon, being hidden in Christ is our weapon, because it is not about what we do, it is about who He is, and our surrender to Him. Jesus told His disciples that He could do nothing without His Father. Well, if He needed that abiding relationship as the Son of God with His Father, we need it more. John 15 speaks of nothing else and John 10 Jesus as Shepherd, and in John 17 when He prays for us. I'm not perfect, and I must admit recently the personal persecution from family has been overwhelming me, so I need Him so much. I always do. I say that I am "nobody" in the prayer calls, but He says I am His Beloved, and I may be "unknown," but I am His. Obeying Him is the message to me, because there are so many times when I want to crawl away and cry. But He won't let me. When He asks, I do. I may cry and whimper, but it's okay, He still loves me. And He loves you. So, time out, go sit at His feet. Or better yet, crawl up into His welcoming lap and stay awhile. Shalom, dear ones."

So, how did I do in my response? Better yet, what is your response to this revealing question? Selah.

 

Day 133 Deep in Thought

 

5/13/2025

 

It's been raining off and on all day, and tonight in the quietness, I can hear the gentle drops slowly increasing into a vigorous downpour disturbing the calm. It's late, and I am still awake, writing, but I really don't know where to begin. The day was another of mixed emotions, and I didn't get outdoors to get my weeding done because of the rain. I had plenty I could do inside, but thoughts clouded my perceptions, so I remained someone sedentary, deep in thought. I received some difficult news again today, and I haven't had time to process it or talk about it, except to cry out to Abba. Once again and all too soon, I am reminded of the brevity of life. At the same time I am ecstatic with joy in the release of another hostage from the stronghold of Hamas. Edan looks well in appearance, but like the others who are home, he will have to overcome the trauma of so many months underground, in the dark, chained, starved, and tortured. Again, we wait for the remainder of the hostages to come home, no longer pawns in the hands of evil men. 

I picked up my Bible and read the following: "Unexpected blessings are wonderful, unexpected trials are often bitter pills to swallow. But God can use even unexpected trials to bring unexpected blessings, if you're ready for them" The phrase "But God" is seen so many times in scriptures, as He allows things to happen so man can identify His hand in the circumstances, for good or for bad. Regardless of what happens in life, He promises never to leave us or forsake us. Many times, when we encounter the unexpected and have to endure what seems impossible to us, it may not feel as if God cares or is even present. The loneliness and feelings of abandonment are so overwhelming, the enemy's voices in our head  attempting to discredit the God we love become so loud and unyielding. But if we allow Him to quiet our hearts, we are able to drive these evil thoughts from our minds and look to Jesus. 

In Psalm 139:7-12 we can glimpse the truth of His words, His promise to be with us, the One who created us:  "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."

Something else happened today that encouraged me, and it gave me confidence in what I believed to be true, even when others tended to see only distortions, and they failed to hope. The things that people say often appear to mean the very opposite of what is truly in their hearts, cleverly disguised and understandable only to the one who truly sees beyond the words. Somewhat like the parables Jesus was so fond of using. We cannot rely on feelings; we must turn to the Word of God and stand upon the truth. The days will become harder, so we must be alert and cautious in our words. The world is poised to see what happens next amidst the distractions that increase by day. 

O how I would love a simple life, one where I can sit on my front porch and watch the sun go down behind the mountains, and watch the animals drinking from the stream that flows beyond the path that leads into the forest. Smoke would rise from my chimney as the snow gently begins to fall. My border collies would be romping through the woods trying to outsmart our resident jackrabbit, who's much faster and wiser than Rascal and Lady. O how I miss my gals. I loved them so. Kenya gave me joy each time she'd skip over from next door and dance with me and play. Memories.

The rain has stopped, and I'm tired. Time for bed, and I'll pick up where I left off tomorrow. May the Lord bless you and keep you. Goodnight.

Day 132 Words Fail Me

5/12/2025

"In the conflict between the believer and the powers

of darkness, the inner chamber is the place where

the decisive victory is obtained."

Andrew Murray

"This is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith." 

 (1 John 5:4)  

The day sparks more controversy, as we gather to pray, but this time speculations are met with Biblical counsel and Word of God truth. Not so with social media or journalism. I realize we must have an "edge" to be considered a good journalist, but what about accuracy? Doesn't that count for anything? Plus, let's consider the word "strategy," that could certainly be in the big picture. Again, all this anti-Biblical rhetoric rips my days apart. So, I turn to what I know to do, beginning with tears and repentance for a nation, a world that always wants to "best" someone. What good are special meetings, or prayer walks, or prayer schools to teach us how to pray the word of God, the only word that matters, only so those in attendance can respond to differing opinions of what is truly going on behind closed doors! When are we going to use what we have in our spiritual wardrobe? In all the guessing games we play, when do we consult with the Commander and Chief of the Armies of Heaven rather than presume or surmise based on what the other guy is saying! When will we refuse to listen to any other voice, any other words than those of our Blessed LORD?!

I am very aware of what is going on, being said, and I am also very tired of trying to connect with Christians who should know better than to jump to conclusions. Who should be savvy enough to recognize  the very visible evidence of lawlessness, perversity, greed, lust for power, and eagerness to shed innocent blood that ran amuck for four years of terror and accusations against those who were trying to live righteously. Now, God in His infinite mercy has given us grace, but our time is short, and the accusers are still trying to bring false accusations again lawful and just men and women, even in the Church. How can we not see that God has strategically placed men and women in places of authority, and has given them godly counselors to encourage them on the path of righteousness. So what if all they think may happen happens?! Does this make God's Word of no effect? Certainly not. Didn't Paul the Apostle say as much when he was writing the epistle to the church in Galatia? or in other locations where new believers, and sometimes older ones, were contending for the faith but listening to every wind of doctrine, tossed back and forth? Is that not what James exhorted the church to avoid? We must put distance between us and such people; we must run from false teachers or pastors or naysayers who try to take our focus away from the truth of God's word?

Why is the church still sleeping when the trumpet has sounded, alarms are going off! Why are they continuing to exalt programs, build larger churches, yet ignorant of the prophetic signs of Christ's return saying it is not relevant for today? Who are these people, and do they know Jesus Christ our Messiah who bleed and died for our sins, or is this a fictitious account of a hero, as those in a comic world. What will it take for people to understand, or care to understand and take a stand!

I'm listening to a worship video by Jesus Image, and the church is packed with thousands of teenagers and young adults worshiping Jesus, inviting the King into the room. And not just younger people but much older than I, dancing before our Lord, running almost to the altar for salvation, rededicating their lives to Christ. I imagine that is considered heresy by some theologians who think they are bigger than life. The Gospel of Jesus Christ is truly Good News. Even King David danced with all his might when returning the ark of the covenant to the temple. When God filled the temple with His presence Solomon and all the leaders, citizens with their families rejoiced, danced, worshiped, sang, feasted before the Lord. Why do so few welcome His presence?!

I just finished a Bible study through Harvest Ministries discipleship online community, which is highly recommended for those who desire a closer walk with Jesus. This epistle is one I have spent a great deal of time studying, alone with the Lord, understanding that we are not fighting flesh and blood - people. This goes higher, and it began with the fall of man, after the fall of Lucifer, known in heaven as the morning star, and a third of the angels from heaven, when they rebelled against God. This battle is very real, and while the attack is spiritual, it plays out in the natural, as many are beguiled and tricked into doing his bidding. But we, as followers of Jesus Christ, cannot give sway to the lies and destruction, or the distractions of this age. We need to be alert, active, and watching. And we must be about our Father's business. 

This is where we are, a time more closely characterized by the wisdom of Charles Dickens in A Tale of Two Cities:

"It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of Light, it was the season of Darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair, we had everything before us, we had nothing before us, we were all going direct to Heaven, we were all going direct the other way--in short, the period was so far like the present period, that some of its noisiest authorities insisted on its being received, for good or for evil, in the superlative degree of comparison only."

Day 131 Mother's Day Prayer

5/11/2025

"My heart rejoices in the LORD;

my horn is exalted in the LORD.

I smile at my enemies, because I 

rejoice in Your salvation." 

1 Samuel 2:2

 

Mother's Day! The calendar sure circles around quickly, and suddenly here we are again, a day that is bitter sweet in memories for me, and I know that it can be a day of mixed reviews for others. Nonetheless,  we take life as it comes, as there is always an abundance of things for which we should be grateful, and that attitude wears long!

Oh, how physically tired I was this morning. I guess I'm not as young, as I think I still am. One look in the impartial mirror can settle that dispute. Although I woke up tired, I still welcomed my day with joy ...until, a little later in the morning. I was taken aback by the unwitting responses of others to unproven news (That's a unique way to say people were forming conclusions [experiencing disbelief] without knowing the truth). I expect more from certain people, so it tends to irritate me when someone speculates without concrete evidence. One of two things generally happens - anger mixed with panic or peace as one trusts God. After all, we are intercessors, so we respond to speculations in faith. In spite of this distraction, I quickly recovered, because I prayed and turned on the most beautiful worship music. Music is a great mellower, a calmer of my emotions. It carries me to the place I belong - the secret place.

I see so much disbelief today, which produces anxiety and fear. Why do we have the need to know everything, or worse, to jump to conclusions about everything?! Jesus said very clearly that "we see in part and we know in part," so why the need to make public what needs to remain in the secret. The media has a field day with information, then it is broadcast all over the world, especially to our enemies. When something happens, contrary to our desired outcome, we depend on someone else to come to our rescue. And then the circle goes 'round and 'round, and pretty soon, the world knows what should have remained a secret for obvious reasons.

I seem to cover the same topic in most of my blogs - the necessity of prayer, and one cannot have breakthrough without abiding in the presence of the Lord, remain quiet, and listen. So many times we are racing around, devoting five minutes of hurried prayers, but intercession is a calling. When we hear news or read a bad report, our first response should be to hit the floor seeking God. One scripture I have been trying to instill into the hearts of people is this, "Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit" (Proverbs 18:21). We must become people who turn to God first, else we will never become victorious. Either we take God at His word, or we place a curse on the situation, and the enemy gets the laugh. I took a chance and voiced, rather I wrote in the comment section, this scripture, and it was seen, because after that a lady gave the same reference I shouted out (unheard), to declare that God laughs at the puny attempts of man to engineer evil into a situation. It's not man or flesh and blood we battle, and prayer is our weapon. 

Again this morning I picked up Abide in Christ by Andrew Murray receiving the wonderful counsel of God's word explained so eloquently and simply. "When a person fully believes that the mighty power of God is working unceasingly within him, he can joyfully say, 'The Lord is the strength of my life'" (Psalm 27:1). "That is the secret of the true life of faith." 

Since today is Mother's Day, an example of the simple faith of Hannah in 1 Samuel 1-2 demonstrates someone who trusted in the word of the Lord. Hannah was the wife of Elkanah, an Ephraimite who had two wives, Hannah and Peninnah. Peninnah had children, but Hannah did not. Elkanah made an annual trip to Shiloh to worship and sacrifice, and he took his wives with him. Each year Hannah would pray for a child, but when she did not receive her request, Peninnah made fun of her. Elkanah loved Hannah so much, and it hurt him when she cried and cried. One year, after eating, Hannah slipped out and went to the temple where she poured out her request for a son before God, vowing that if God gave her a son, she would bring him back to the temple and dedicate him to the Lord's service as a Nazarite. When Eli, the priest, saw her grieving and saw her lips moving without sound, he accused her of being drunk. But, Hannah explained her situation, and Eli told her that God had heard her prayers. She happily returned home, and she conceived and gave birth to her son, Samuel, just as Eli said. She was faithful to her promise to God, and after he was weaned, Hannah brought Samuel back to the temple to serve God. Samuel became a prophet and the first judge of Israel. Because of Hannah's obedience, she bore several other children. Chapter 2 of 1 Samuel begins with Hannah's song to the Lord:  

"My heart rejoices in the LORD; my horn is exalted in the LORD.

I smile at my enemies, because I rejoice in Your salvation.

No one is holy like the LORD, for there is none besides You,

Nor is there any rock like our God.

Talk no more so very proudly; let no arrogance come from your mouth,

For the LORD is the God of knowledge; and by Him actions are weighed."

1 Samuel 1:1-3

The full song continues to verse 10, but I leave it for the reader to consider. Hannah trusted in God's promise and waited, fully trusting that God would fulfill the Word spoken through Eli, the prophet. This is how we should respond in prayer to every situation. We may not always get every prayer answered in the way we would like, but God knows all things, and His ways are higher than ours. We must rely on Him and trust He who began a good work will continue it. Do not waiver from that position of trust. 

Pastor Jack's scripture of the day is from Colossians 3:23-24: "And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ." Seems a fit conclusion to this story and our life journey. 

Ending with one more thought:

"Be not afraid to pray; to pray is right;

Pray if thou canst with hope, but ever pray,

Though hope be weak or sick with long delay;

Pray in the darkness if there be no light;

And if for any wish thou dare not pray,

Then pray to God to cast that wish away."

Unknown Author 

Day 130 Teach Us to Number Our Days

5/10/2025

 "So teach us to number our days,

That we may gain a heart of wisdom."

Psalm 90:12

Morning came a bit too early for me this morning, as I struggled so hard not to rise and shine! I remember my Mother waking me up when I was a kid, and I took the same approach with my children when they didn't want to rise or shine! Actually, I used to sing:

"When the red, red, robin comes bob, bob, bobbin' along, along
There'll be no more sobbin', when he starts throbbin' his old sweet song
Ah, wake up, wake up you sleepy head
Get up, get up, get out of bed
Cheer up, cheer up, the sun is red
Live, love, laugh and be happy"

 

By the time I sang the last phrase, the pillows were flying in my direction as I danced merrily around the room. I believe in making childhood fun. I asked my older son once if he remembered that song. He remarked that he did, and it was why he was still in therapy! At least I tried to make even the mundane things, like getting ready for school or church on Sunday mornings, fun. 

 

Tomorrow is Mother's Day, and it's not really a holiday I celebrate since my Mother is with Jesus, but it is nice when the little kids at church recognize mothers with a flower as we walk into the sanctuary. I'll have to think of some really nice memories I have either of my childhood with my Mama or Grammy. I was always at my grandmother's house. Or, perhaps, something unusual about my early days as mama. I'm sure there are plenty. Maybe Daniel will finally share the Christmas video he tells me about, when he was six months old, and I dropped him, or so the story goes. Knowing him, he probably squirmed out of my arms. He was the adventurous one, even at a very young age. But, that's tomorrow's tale.

 

I went to bed around 2:30 am last night/this morning, and I got up by 6 am. I had cut the grass and pulled weeds plus more yard work. I'd been out in the yard for three days trying to get things done. I guess it caught up with me. I thought this morning was Friday, so I asked Daniel if he'd gone swimming! He was temporarily dazed and confused, but we managed to figure it out. There would be someone who would suggest that my confusion was the result of advancing age, but this was from stupidity in not going to bed at a reasonable time. I've been snoozing off and on all day, so tonight I need to force myself to get into bed as soon as I finish my watch at midnight. Something has got to give!!

 

My initial thoughts about "numbering our days," came as I was talking about the brevity of life a few days ago. Then a couple of days ago I learned another friend had died last year. It seems as if I'm always the last to know. I'm sure many have heard the question asked, "If you knew this was your last day, how would you spend it?" It's a sobering thought, but for me it's something I think about often, and I try to keep a short account. 

 

I've shared Psalm 139 so many times, as it speaks of God's creation, craftsmanship, unique design of each person made in the image of God. He actually planned it out. 

 

"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 are

all written, the days fashioned for me, when as yet there were none of them." 

 

Psalm 139:16

 

I am always praising God for His wondrous creation, and I marvel that each person created in His image, has a book with our name on it. Psalm 139 has a title "God's Perfect Knowledge of Man." If there is any doubt that we have a God who loves us, this psalm should lay that idea to rest. Listen to how it begins in verses 1-6:

 "O LORD, You have searches me and known me.

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."

 

It is such a sobering thought to consider that God planned each detail of each life, and He is concerned about every aspect of our lives. He even knows the number of hairs on our heads (Matthew 10:26-31).  We live our lives vicariously through the finished work of Jesus when He died on the cross for our sins, so we could have fellowship with God the Father. All He asks is our love and trust. Jesus has done everything needed to approach a Holy God through His righteousness alone are we made clean. His blood gave us access to His Presence. He loved us even in our sins. When Adam sinned, he tried to hide from God, and there is no where we can hide. He sees everything, knows everything, and still He love us (verses 7-12, 17-18). I encourage you to read the entire psalm, ending in these words: "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." Each day I say these words, and they are written on my heart. The words remind me that I am not perfect, and I need to examine my heart daily so that I remain in an attitude of thanksgiving and praise.

 

So, here's the question again: "If you knew this was your last day, how would you spend it?" Would you change anything about your life? Knowing that there's a book in heaven with your name it, would you wonder if you'd done what God put you here to do, besides love Him, of course. We all have gifts and callings, do you know yours? Are you walking in His ways? How are your relationships? I know this is an area I focus on, as I seem to let certain people down regardless of how I walk or comb my hair...that part is just me being silly, but truthfully, we cannot please everyone. And should we even try? We must be authentic and kind, but we have to set boundaries, and they are okay, as long as our walk follows Christ's examples. But forgiveness is important. God has spoken very sternly about forgiving others, even ourselves. So let's work hard on it. Let's number our days with acts of kindness, compassion, and the love of God breathed out in every breath of our lives. When someone looks at us, let them see Jesus!

Day 129 Hearts on Pilgrimage

5/9/2025

Just before the sun rises, and it is still pitch dark outside, there is one light seen shining in the sky that stands out among the stars that are fading graciously from sight. It announces the coming of the sun. In Revelation 22:16 a declaration is spoken: "I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star." What a wonderful way to look upon each sunrise as the beginning of a journey, a pilgrimage, a new start of the day, or a new beginning.

Yesterday I was sharing from Abide in the Secret Place by Andrew Murray. He was speaking of an awakening heart to the wonder of a life hidden in Christ. He shares, "Oh, Christian, have you learned this lesson in your worship of God, yielding yourself each morning, yielding your whole heart to do God's will? Pray each prayer with a perfect heart in true wholehearted devotion to Him. Then expect, by faith, the power of God to work in you and through you."  

In my Bible study group on Thursday, we are studying 1 John, and daily on the Harvest discipleship we are asked questions from the messages of Pastors Greg and Jonathan on which our study is devoted. This morning we were asked the following question: "1 John 2, John provides a spiritual checkup focusing on the vertical (obedience to God), horizontal (love for others), and internal (heart). What does it look like to walk with Jesus?" That's a great question to start the day. It seems as if every time I open my Bible or click on my study aids or listen to a sermon, the same message is being offered on the very same day. Coincidence? I think not! This is the way He works in my life. I ponder a question, and He responds. I really didn't have to think about the above very long, because this is all I think about or pray about. It's not a boring life at all. It's the life I have chosen for all He's done for me.

Here's how I answered:

"Walking with Jesus is abiding with Him daily, in peace and without fear, no matter what happens in the natural - calls I receive, or strange mail or emails that come my way. It's having so much compassion for loving others, and it's looking for ways to make a different in the lives of others, even strangers. It's asking forgiveness, even when I'm not the reason behind it all. It's so many things I experience in a day, but with Him with me, I can do it best. When I mess up and get it wrong, He picks me up, and we do it again. He's my life, the life I choose, and the reason I live and breathe and have my being."

It may sound thoroughly absurd to some, simplistic to others, or it may mean nothing to another. But this is my life, and I wouldn't have it any other way. In fact, I have wasted so much time, it seems, thinking I need another person to share this life with, when all I needed was Jesus. I do believe in marriage, and it is a covenant before God. The only relationship between male and female God honors. That's what makes it special, so when it is disrespected or violated, it destroys people's lives. Divorce is a form of death, and it grieves a soul, but forgiveness makes it right, so we can go on. But we should never allow another to take the place of God as our first love. We do not need the validation of another to feel worthy of love. We have it, we have the love of a Father, the One who created us, who wants to walk with us in the gardens of our lives. Adam and Eve messed it up, but then God had another way to redeem us. He sent Jesus, and Jesus sent Holy Spirit. 

I am not a theological giant, and my collegiate credentials are few, although God blessed me with experience and a ride that is hard to follow. He showed me that I was wanted, loved, needed, and He gave me stuff to do what He needed me to do. He deserves the glory. Jesus alone. I'm on a pilgrimage of love, and I share from a heart once broken now mended, now restored. There will always be suffering until the day we close our eyes and open them to see His beautiful face, smiling and welcoming us home. That is worth the journey, so if you don't know Him, friend, make it right today. He's waiting.

 

Day 128 I Call, He Answers

5/8/2025

Why do some people prefer to read devotionals, read a book, or watch a video to see what a well-known pastor has to say about scripture rather than check it out themselves? I asked my son why people don't like to read the Bible, and he said, "because it is boring!" I don't feel that way at all. I can understand why Leviticus is a difficult read, as it is rather explicit in some regards, but the rest is so interesting. I am even learning to pay closer attention to the "begots" and the lineage of Christ I find very interesting, as anyone who reads my blogs will know. But my son even thinks these subjects are boring, even if it was his own lineage. This tells me much about people and attitudes today, I even have friends who think a five minute devotional reading is growing closer to the Lord. I know our lives are busy, but spending quality, uninterrupted time alone with the Lord is a necessity for me, especially in our world today.

I belong to a small group of intercessors who meet once a week, but sometimes I feel as if I don't belong. When we pray we should always exalt His holy name, and thank Him for His presence. Holy Spirit dwells within us, if we are truly born again believers. As we intercede we examine our hearts, and praying corporate prayers should cause us to recognize our need for repentance, cleansing. We have examples in scripture when Moses interceded on behalf of the grumbling, discontent people, and as Daniel interceded when he read about the 70 years of exile for Israel's sins of idolatry. He was a young teenager when he was taken and exiled in Persia. Yet, he included himself with Israel's sins. Whereas we may not have been involved in the sins of the nation directly, our silence on certain matters, especially in the church, has led to the downfall of our nation and to spiritually weak, and often dead, churches without the power of God in operation. Why don't we witness more miracles? They do happen, believe me, as I am one.

When Jesus ascended to heaven after He was resurrected, the scripture says He was seated on the right side of Father, and we as His believers are seated beside Him in heavenly places. When He died, He said, "It is finished!" Do we know what that means? What He accomplished for us? He conquered death, hell, and the grave. He took back the keys from satan, and we are free. We can live victorious lives in Christ. Only in Christ, and only as we realize what that freedom in Christ means. Even intercessors seems to forget about it. Right now in Israel there is a lady who served as an intercessor for a great evangelist Reinhard Bonnke, who is now deceased. This was back in the day. Suzette is holding prayer schools for pastors and others who want to learn the proper way to pray. I have heard her teach on multiple occasions through the embassy, and this teaching is much needed. The trick, and it no trick, is praying the word of God, and believing God will do what He says He will do. That's right, the boring-to-some Bible is the key to victorious living, as well as spending time with our Father daily.

This morning I was reading Abide in the Secret Place by Andrew Murray, and he says "In worldly matters, we know how important it is that work be done with the whole heart. In the spiritual realm, this rule still holds true." In 2 Chronicles 16:9 the importance of seeking God with a pure heart is made evident: "The eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward Him." Our hearts must be right before a Holy God, and we must love Him with all our hearts: "You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, your soul, your mind, and with all your strength" (Deuteronomy 6:5). We must seek Him: "You will see Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart." (Jeremiah 29:13). 

Later, in our prayer time with the Embassy, our leader shared a portion of scripture from the book of  Revelation recorded by the Apostle John who was exiled on the Island of Patmos. John stated that he was taken to the throne in heaven. "After this I looked, and there before me was a door standing open in heaven. And the voice I had first heard speaking to me like a trumpet said, 'Come up here, and I will show you what must take place after this'" (Revelation 4:1). Just as John was taken to heaven, whether physically or in the spirit, Jesus told him to "come up." And this is what God is seeking in relationship with us. He wants to commune with us, and show us great and mighty things (Jeremiah 33:3). 

Jurgen shared about his own journey over the past year, as he has struggled with severe back pain, requiring multiple surgeries, and he remains in a wheelchair still, still in pain. He has returned to work, but he is not able to work full time. He hosts the call on Thursdays, and it is such an uplifting time. When we suffer chronic pain or disease or any debilitating condition, it can be the most precious time of spiritual growth, if we use it to draw close to God and listen. I personally know this to be true, as does my daughter. As does Jurgen and others in the Embassy who have experienced challenges, especially during this time. When we set apart our lives to follow Christ, we will be tested, because we must be purged, cleansed of anything that is not holy, or perhaps to see what we are truly made of. This is necessary, even in suffering. We began the daily prayer call 580 days ago to stand with Israel in the time of war and for the release of the hostages. Jurgen shared that although we have seen many answers to prayers and miracles where IDF lives were spared due to divine intervention, many have died and 55 hostages remain. God is in control, irrespective of our situation. And although we are waiting, there are no emergencies in heaven. We recognize this, and we worship Him. Through the Bible, especially in the Psalms of David, we see the response to worship and adore Him. He is our God - Yahweh. He is El Shaddai, Elohim, and Adonai. And He will do what He says He will do. Our job is to remain fixed in prayer, trusting He will finish it, because He will.

In closing, I want to share a song by Bethel Worship that I pray speaks to your heart today:

Came to My Rescue

"… Falling on my knees in worship
Giving all I am to seek Your face
Lord, all I am is Yours

 

… My whole life I place in Your hands
God of Mercy humbled I bow down
In Your presence at Your throne

 

… I called, You answered
And You came to my rescue
And I wanna be where You are

 

… My whole life I place in Your hands
God of Mercy, humbled I bow down
In Your presence at Your throne

 

… And I called, You answered
And You came to my rescue
And I wanna be where You are

 

… And I called, You answered
And You came to my rescue
And I wanna be where You are

 

… In my life be lifted high
In our world be lifted high
In our love be lifted high
(High Lord, High Lord)

 

… In my life be lifted high
In our world be lifted high
In our love be lifted high (yea, higher)

 

… In my life be lifted high
In our world be lifted high
In our love be lifted high

 

… I called, You answered
And You came to my rescue
And I wanna be where You are

Day 127 In the Watching

5/7/2025

⁸ But I am like an olive tree
    flourishing in the house of God;
I trust in God’s unfailing love
    for ever and ever.
⁹ For what you have done I will always praise you
    in the presence of your faithful people.
And I will hope in your name,
    for your name is good. 

Psalm 52:8-9

 

Why are we surprised when God moves in extraordinary ways? If we are trusting Him for an answer to our prayers, and we are persistent, like the woman before the unjust judge, does He not answer, in His time and in His way? I can't get away from comments I heard earlier in the week about this very thing. About trusting, not doubting, not confused. As intercessors are we not to anticipate, expect, and if we are surprised by God's suddenlies, it is only because He responds uniquely, never the same way twice. He's a creative genius. Think not?! Just look around you and see the beauty and symphony of nature! The entire Bible is full of the word "suddenly." And then the magic happens!

Tuesday I listened to the Kehilat HaCarmel Church Prayer Watch while I was praying for Israel, reading the Word as I listened to the worship. The watch includes worship, prayer, scripture, words of knowledge from regular church members and visitors who come to pray and worship, even in the midst of war. The church is in Haifa, on Mount Carmel. Josie shared that sirens had been going on and off, and there had been a lot of activity recently. As she shared about the chaos, uncertainty, evil words being spoken about Israel, she shared these thoughts: "This is our life, and we wouldn't have it any other way. This is our country and our nation, and we love it. We are here to the end." She spoke of the eternal flame that will never be snuffed out. I love that feeling and identifying with all Israelis. May they be blessed, and may all come to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. As we wait for the hostages to be released. As we wait for the war to be over. As we wait for the salvation of the Jews, and as we wait for the return of Messiah. 

Another lady, Dahlia, shared that she was working with a police man to collect uniforms for the soldiers. As they were working, counting the uniforms, Dahlia said to the officer that she was not sure she agreed with the exchange of so few hostages with so many terrorists being released onto the street, just to kill again.The man gently placed his hand on her shoulder, and he said, "You're right, Dahlia, but this is what it means to be a Jew."

Karen, the worship leader, began to sing, "The Goodness of God" by Bethel Ministries:

"I love You, Lord
For Your mercy never fails me
All my days, I've been held in Your hands
From the moment that I wake up
Until I lay my head
Oh, I will sing of the goodness of God

 

And all my life You have been faithful
And all my life You have been so, so good
With every breath that I am able
Oh, I will sing of the goodness of God

 

I love Your voice
You have led me through the fire
In the darkest night
You are close like no other
I've known You as a Father
I've known You as a Friend
And I have lived in the goodness of God 

 

And all my life You have been faithful
And all my life You have been so, so good
With every breath that I am able
Oh, I will sing of the goodness of God 

 

'Cause Your goodness is running after, it's running after me
Your goodness is running after, it's running after me
With my life laid down, I'm surrendered now
I give You everything

 
'Cause Your goodness is running after, it's running after me 

Your goodness is running after, it's running after me
Your goodness is running after, it's running after me
With my life laid down, I'm surrendered now
I give You everything
'Cause Your goodness is running after

It keeps running after me

 

And all my life You have been faithful
And all my life You have been so, so good
With every breath that I am able
Oh, I'm gonna sing of the goodness of God
I'm gonna sing, I'm gonna sing

 

'Cause all my life You have been faithful
And all my life You have been so, so good
With every breath that I am able
Oh, I'm gonna sing of the goodness of God
Oh, I'm gonna sing of the goodness of God

 

We love Your praise
All for all my day"

 

Another lady, much older, shared that she had lived there for so long, but God had always been faithful, for all her years. When she spoke, it reminded me of a Psalm of David when he was an older man, speaking of the mercies of God:

 

"I have been young, and now am old, yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken or his children begging for bread." Psalm 37:25

 

O, that we could all having these feelings of gratitude towards our loving Father, who never withholds good things from His children. And we must keep our eyes on Him, trusting Him, even in the struggles, even as we wait. The hostages will be freed, the war will end, and there will be peace...at least until the day when God tells Jesus that it is time to come back. Until then, we wait, and we serve, and we give Him glory for He alone is worthy of prayer. 

 

Day 126 I am His!

 

5/6/2025

How can a day that begins radiantly...yes, radiantly...change so drastically near close of day?! This happens to me on a certain day of the week, and try as I may, I cannot seem to change it. I go in confidently, and I leave defeated. Did I hear God correctly? Did He open this door for me to walk through? If so, am I doomed to repeat the pattern of my life, so I can continue to be chiseled or sharpened or pruned or squeezed a bit more, just to learn something? Only God knows. Consequently, as always, I have two choices - give in or continue on.

My day began at daybreak, and it was refreshing, aka radiant, as I began listening to music, quiet before the Lord. As I began to read my journal notes, gathering my thoughts for my Bible study, I began to remember words the Lord had spoken to me in dreams. As I sat before Him, talking about the day, I remembered what He said to me so many times. Later, in the prayer meeting, I heard the words, "go higher, higher; go deeper, deeper." I've talked about the words "1000 cubits" that I heard spoken to me in a dream. In the dream, I was in a large building, much like what I visualize in my mind when I read about the tabernacle of the Lord, but it had many rooms. In the dream, the building was empty, and I wondered where everyone had gone. I was taken to the front porch of the temple, overseeing a river. It was shallow in the beginning, but as I walked into it, the river was rising, rising, referencing what I learned from Ezekiel 47 about 1000 cubits. Ezekiel is given a vision of a man leading him into a river to measure the depth of the water. He measured the depth four times, with it gradually deepening, increasing to 1000 cubits. According to theologians, the vision is symbolic of "a deeper level of spiritual commitment and reliance on God. It suggests a call to go deeper in one's faith and relationship with the Lord." The message as it related to me was that as the water became deeper, I was not to be afraid to stay in the water. Well, as I recall often, several years ago, when I was first asked by the Lord to write the story, He directed me to a portion of scripture found in Isaiah and one in the gospels. I was deeply involved in intercession at that point, and the Lord spoke on day and said: "And the Lord said, 'Simon! Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren'" (Luke 22:31-32). My first response to the Lord was "Me, Lord? I'm nobody?" I can't remember what I actually said to Him, but I'm sure He reminded me of how He uses the foolish things or people to confound the wise (1 Corinthians 1:27-30). He uses donkeys! (Numbers 22:21-35) Later on, when I was talking to Him about my life, He spoke to me with another portion of scripture about who I am to Him, as I am always wondering where I belong. I've wondered most of my life. Here's the scripture found in Isaiah 43:1-7 Amplified Bible: 

1 But now, this is what the Lord, your Creator says, O Jacob,
And He who formed you, O Israel,
“Do not fear, for I have redeemed you [from captivity];
I have called you by name; you are Mine!
² 
“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you;
And through the rivers, they will not overwhelm you.
When you walk through fire, you will not be scorched,
Nor will the flame burn you.
³ 
“For I am the Lord your God,
The Holy One of Israel, your Savior;
I have given Egypt [to the Babylonians] as your ransom,
Cush (ancient Ethiopia) and Seba [its province] in exchange for you.
⁴ 
“Because you are precious in My sight,
You are honored and I love you,
I will give other men in return for you and other peoples in exchange for your life.
⁵ 
“Do not fear, for I am with you;
I will bring your offspring from the east [where they are scattered],
And gather you from the west.
⁶ 
“I will say to the north, ‘Give them up!’
And to the south, ‘Do not hold them back.’
Bring My sons from far way
And My daughters from the ends of the earth,
⁷ 
Everyone who is called by My Name,
Whom I have created for My glory,
Whom I have formed, even whom I have made.”

Obviously God is writing about Israel and about the scattered tribes, where He sent them all over the world when He allowed them to be punished for turning away from Him. But, because I am His daughter, and belong to Him, grafted into the vine, sharing in their inheritance, just as all believers in Christ, this scripture applies to me as well. He was speaking that day to me directly. I can testify that I am His; He has called me by name! He has also promised me that my children will return to Him, just as He will redeem and restore Israel. As for walking through waters and fires and being sifted, I can also attest to those experiences as well. In fact, my book, if He so allows me, will reflect those words, "Sifted, Soaked, and Smoked!"

So, in light of all this, how am I feeling at the true close of my day? I feel loved, and He assures me that it doesn't matter what anyone else thinks, appears to think, or the looks I'm given, I am to do what He says do, listen to what He says, say what He tells me to say, when He tells me to say it. No matter how much I personally whine and cry about it, or hold onto the proverbial door knob (which I've done for real), and lay in the floor and kick my feet like a petulant child, I will obey Him, because I trust Him. More about that on another page.

It seems as if I am always testifying. I joke about it with my sister, and then I say "Enough preaching!" She responds with her little laugh. But I am enthusiastic about my walk with Jesus, and how alive and active and relative for today His Words are. God is changeless. So I must remain faithful to Him, and I will. If I get kicked out of a group for not being despondent when the Word says "we are seated in heavenly place beside Jesus," from a seat of victory, I might add, well then, so be it. I won't give up, and I won't give in. I've had way too much of people pushing me down with their own agendas. "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord," Joshua 24:2-15. And that, my friends, deserves another Selah!

Day 125 Lighten Up

5/5/225

Early this morning I had to make a telephone call to my physician's office to clear up a billing error. I was a bit apprehensive, because I thought my past was catching up to me. Before anyone gets the wrong idea...in 2016 I had been involved in an work accident. After the initial shock, I felt like I was fine, but it became a workman's comp issue, because it happened in a client's home. I sustained some injuries, and it was decided that I was partially, permanently disabled. After all was said and done, a grueling process, I just wanted to piece my life back together, and have nothing to do with any WC doctors. Recently, here in Virginia, it caught up with me, because it is a part of my health record, so I was concerned that I would have to deal with it each time I went to my doctor for a routine checkup. Fortunately, the mishap was easily corrected. I also found out that my insurance number had been changed, possibly due to a security breach, leaving my information possibly in jeopardy. The fun never ends!! But, thankfully, a quick call cleared it up, and I could breathe again. Such is life. And that's just the beginning of the day, but, thankfully, it was a good day. And although the initial suspense caused me irritation, as opposed to fear or worry, I woke up grateful and enriched.

Prior to all this drama, I began my morning reading about good King Jehoshaphat who ruled Judah for 25 years. It is said of Jehoshaphat that "The Lord was with Jehoshaphat, because he followed in the good footsteps of his father's early years and didn't worship idols. He obeyed the commandments of his father's God...." (2 Chronicles 17:3-4). The commentary that prefaces the reading asks the secret of Jehoshaphat's favor with God. "He boldly followed the paths of God" (2 Chronicles 17:6). "His first love was not wealth, power, or any of the kingly trappings; it was a love of and delight in the Lord." The question the reader is asked: "What's your first love?" Judging from the history of all of Israel's and some of Judah's kings, the trappings did change the focus, especially when pagan wives were part of the picture. When the kingdom was not divided, King David and King Solomon strayed, but David remained the apple of God's eye and the best King in whose lineage our Savior was born. Solomon was considered the wisest king who ever ruled, even though he acquired a lot of pagan wives who turned his heart astray.  The question of first love is one of great importance. In the book of Revelation, the church at Ephesus was warned, because they had lost their first love. This is a warning for us in the church today.

Pastor Jack had shared a verse from 2 Chronicles 15:7, "But you, be strong and do not let your hands be weak, for your work shall be rewarded!" King Asa, Jehoshaphat's father, was the king of Judah at this time. Returning from battle, Asa and this soldiers were given a cautionary exhortation, a rather abrupt message from God delivered by a prophet. The Lord said in verse 2, "Listen to Me, Asa! Listen, armies of Judah and Benjamin!" he shouted. "The Lord will stay with you as long as you stay with Him! Whenever you look for Him, you will find Him. But if you forsake Him, He will forsake you." After that, the messenger goes on to speak of the history of the people not listening to God, but in the end, the message became a keep-up-the-good-work tone, that we see in the verse Jack shared. King Asa served for 41 years, but sadly in the end he died from serious disease, because he consulted doctors, rather than the Lord.

The encouragement in the verse shared by Pastor Jack is that being strong and courageous comes with weathering hard times in life, or in this context, war and battles, but the response in our lives should be the same. God says that if we persevere, seeking wisdom and strength from Him, we will be rewarded for standing and trusting. So many times when Israel was under attack, God always heard their cries, and He went before them, in unique ways, I might add. The Bible contains so many instances of where the enemy forces were overwhelming in comparison to the smaller size of Israel's armies, yet God caused confusion to come over them, and they would fight and kill each other or run off so quickly that they left a trail of their gear they stripped off to lessen the weight. We can find strength and confidence that God will do the same for us in battles we fight. But, we must be faithful to seek Him and ask. How many prayers go unanswered, because no one ever consulted the Lord?! We are instructed to pray expectantly. I realize that faith grows stronger over time, which is why cultivating a time of prayer, Bible study, and just sitting in His presence are so important, especially as the days get harder. Proverbs 4:18 puts it this way: The path of the righteous is like the morning sun, shining ever brighter till the full light of day." Just as light dispels the darkness in the morning, so God directs our paths and brings us light and hope, clarity and faith to face any challenge that may come. So the word for today from me in considering all I've said is  - Walk in the light, as He is in the Light, while there is still light!!

Day 124 Mysteries and Manna

5/4/2025

This has been an exciting day beginning with my two prayer meetings, followed by online church attendance at two churches, with meaty thought-provoking messages. During the day I caught up on some reading, and I finished my blog from yesterday. I needed to rethink it and finish my thoughts. It was longer, but that's the way it seems to go sometimes. I'm not sure if anything I say is noteworthy, but as I've said before, writing is an act of obedience. 

Tonight I attended another online service, and it brought the words from the Lord for the day full circle. The only thing is that I am a bit uncertain as to what I am supposed to share. I've had so many thoughts today, as well as some from a day or so ago. Each day is stocked with fresh manna, and try as I may, I just cannot get it all down on paper as I'd like. Much of what I learn, I don't think it is time to share, and that really doesn't help me, but I am learning that just because God opens my eyes to a word in scripture or encourages me in worship or in other ways, it doesn't mean it is time to share with others. I have many such visions or dreams that I am still mulling over in my mind. I attempted to share one dream with someone the other day, and I'm not sure it made any sense to her. In fact, I'm still trying to make sense of it myself.

Tonight in a short message given following a performance, I was challenged to rethink times in my life when I've felt confused about my calling. I wonder sometimes if I ever really heard God speak or, like Scrooge, it was a bit of bad potato I ate. I tried pulling out my old journals trying to find those times when God spoke to me, but I soon became overwhelmed with the stacks of journals going back to 1983. I used to write on notebook paper back then, so much of my notes and thoughts from the earlier years have been lost in all the moves I've had to do. Plus, I wonder sometimes whether it is wise to go back in history and try to re-piece my life. Besides, my memory is quite good when it comes to certain words from the Lord. The years I spent in isolation, the dry seasons, the valleys, were many. Like I said, I moved a lot over the years. 

I asked my son if he had his life to do over again, if he'd want to do the same things, make the same mistakes. His response was "Yes." He shared that because of the mistakes, he had become the man he is today. Since I moved here almost four years and bought my parents' home, he has healed, and he's getting his life back together. I told him, I would never want to relive my life, but I too am grateful for the person I have become because of the journey and trials. He finally understood that I only wanted his life, and the livws of his sister and brother, to be happier, without sickness and pain. I have never quite understood why God would allow me to miraculously conceive and carry three children, only to have them endure the pain and isolation of each of their lives. I raised them to love the Lord, and they seemed to enjoy being part of the community of believers. If I made a mistake during their younger years, I was quick to ask forgiveness and admit I was wrong. I tried to protect them, but I couldn't even protect myself. Nonetheless, I did my best, and I pray that they each feel the same way. When children grow up, sadly they don't always choose wisely, but then, neither do we. I'm just glad that my life is better now, and it is my prayer that theirs will soon turn around for better.

I remember a plaque my brother put together in Vacation Bible School, and I still have it. The words written on it say: "Only one life will soon be past; only what's done for Christ will last." These are timely words for today and for life. Keeping our focus on Jesus, the Author and Perfecter or Finisher of our faith is the key to success. God never said He wanted us to have a happy life, He wanted us to walk in an obedient life. Psalm 37:3-6 says:

 

³ Trust in the Lord, and do good;
Dwell in the land, and feed on His faithfulness.
⁴ Delight yourself also in the Lord,
And He shall give you the desires of your heart.

⁵ Commit your way to the Lord,
Trust also in Him,
And He shall bring it to pass.
⁶ He shall bring forth your righteousness as the light,
And your justice as the noonday.

 

Many people have quoted verse 4 wrongly by saying that God wants to give us the desires of our hearts, but that's not exactly so. The verse tells us to delight ourselves in the Lord, meaning submitting ourselves to Him and following His ways, then God will give us the desires of our heart, because our desire when we commit our ways to His will eventually become our desire, because we love Him, and we have made Him the desire of our hearts. Makes good sense!

As I close out my day, God has given me a verse from Jeremiah to chew on and spend a little "Selah" time: "Therefore thus says the LORD: 'If you return, then I will bring you back; you shall stand before Me; if you take out the precious from the vile, you shall be as My mouth. Let them return to you, but you must not return to them.'" Jeremiah 15:19

I think I have my study time cut out for me to understand that one and another thought God gave me about finding my Cherith Brook referring to the scriptures found in 1 Kings 17:2-4. So, it seems I have two mysteries to solve. Until then, find your "selah moment" and wait before the Lord. He may have fresh manna hidden for you in scripture! 

Day 123 The Begotten

 5/3/2025

I have always been captivated by studying the lineage of Jesus Christ. There's a saying "You can't choose your parents, but you can choose your family." Whereas I understand why the statement is thought to be valid, because "family" can include people who are not related to one, but they have shared interests and a strong sense of unity and kinship, but scripture suggests something else. In Psalm 139:13-16 it is clear that God knew us, chose us, formed us uniquely:

 For You formed my inward parts;
You covered me in my mother’s womb.
¹⁴ I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
Marvelous are Your works,
And that my soul knows very well.
¹⁵ My frame was not hidden from You,
When I was made in secret,
And skillfully wrought in the lowest parts of the earth.
¹⁶ 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.

Ephesians 1:3-6 puts it nicely:

³ Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ, ⁴ just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love, ⁵ having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, ⁶ to the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He made us accepted in the Beloved.

I find it beyond fascinating that God knew us before the world was created by Him (but of course He would), He knew our parents' abilities and characters, just as He knew Mary would be the perfect choice to carry His Son, and He knew Joseph would stand beside her and make an excellent choice of earthly Abba for Jesus, training Him in His Heavenly Father's laws. God chose! God chose us! He knew who would serve Him, and He knew who would betray Him. I am so grateful that He chose me to be His child. Now, I am determined to spend the remainder of my earthly sojourn praising and honoring His Name and fulfilling what He placed me here to do in the book that has my name on it. A most humbling thought, as I find it very hard to get the one thing done that I know He asked me to do. I feel so inadequate, and the one cheerleader He gave me is with Him now. So, I'm alone trying to do my best to bring honor to Him. After all, He does transform coal into diamonds.

Looking at the ancestry of Jesus, I want to point out some of the interesting personalities. Matthew, Chapter 1 begins with the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the Son of David, the son of Abraham. He is referred to the Son of David, because it was prophesied that the Messiah would come from the line of David, the tribe of Judah, and He came in the flesh as God's Son. In Judaism the oldest son, the first born, received the inheritance, but Abraham's son, Judah, was fourth in line. You may recall the reason being Reuben disrespected his father, and Simeon and Levi (from the tribe of Levi came the priests) brought shame to the family by wiping out the village of the one who raped their sister, so shaming Judah. So, Judah is now the first son, but actually, that is the way it was supposed to be from the beginning. 

Judah has a son, Perez, through Tamar, but she is not his wife. Whoa! Actually, Tamar was married to Judah's older son, but God killed him, because he was not a righteous man; so according to Judaism, the next son must marry his brother's widow, so his brother's line can be carried on by birth of a son. But this didn't happen, because Judah's second son did not want to honor this arrangement, so God killed him. That left the only son who was much younger, not of marrying age. Judah promised Tamar she could marry his younger son, when he grew up. So she went home to her family to wait, and time passed, and Judah, not wanting to chance God's wrath and the loss of his only son, just ignored the situation. So, Tamar, finally understood Judah's betrayal and took matters into her own hands by pretending to be a prostitute. I'm not going into the story further, but her plan worked as you can read in Genesis 38, and she gave birth to twins (another interesting aside), and the lineage continues with Perez.

Skipping down to verse 5, we see that "Salmon begot Boaz by Rahab, Boaz begot Obed by Ruth, Obed begot Jesse, and Jesse begot David." Now Rahab one may recall was the prostitute in the book of Joshua who protected the spies. Ruth is the Moabite woman, a pagan, who had been married to Naomi's son who died. In fact bother of sons were married to Moabite women, and both sons died of sickness, leaving Naomi alone, because her husband had also died. They had moved from the Israel to Moab during a famine. Again I leave it to the reader to consider the story in its entirety, found in the book of Ruth. Her story is beautiful, so if the reader is not familiar with it, and the cost she paid by going with Naomi to Israel rather than returning to her family, please make the time to read it. The fact that she married Boaz and was the great-grandmother of King David is quite a love story, and a picture of Boaz as the kinsman redeemer, a type and shadow of Jesus our Messiah, our Redeemer. 

David's story of becoming King of Israel is not without a great bit of drama and intrigue, but the story takes on a finer edge once he is firmly established as King. David was the youngest of Jesse's sons, and it has been suggested that David's mother was not Jesse's wife. While that is an interesting aside, whatever the case, David's life as a shepherd proved instrumental in his becoming the man God affectionately called "the apple of His eye." Besides being a shepherd, he was a skilled musician and singer, a brave protector of his sheep, and a great writer. He became a great friend of the son of his enemy, a young teenager who took off the head of a giant, and ultimately a great warrior and beloved King, who ruled his kingdom well.

Everyone is familiar with the story of David and Bathsheba, and that God chose Bathsheba to give birth to Solomon who became the King of Israel after David, and whom God gifted with great wisdom. The story is quite tragic, and Solomon, in spite of his great success, turned away from God due to his lust for pagan women. His son and successor, Rehoboam, ended up dividing the Kingdom of Israel into the divided kingdoms of Israel and Judah, and that ushered in evil leaders and the ultimate demise of the land of Israel when both kingdoms were conquered by pagan kings, the temple destroyed, and the people carted off to different countries. But not before the birth of another interesting man who becomes king of Judah.

Verse 10 introduces us to King Hezekiah and his son, Manasseh. Amid a series of good and bad kings from Rehoboam's reign until Hezekiah's, Hezekiah was a good king who loved and honored God and brought restoration to the kingdom of Judah. In 2 Kings 18, the story of Hezekiah begins. As mentioned, he led a godly life and followed in the example of King David. 2 Kings 20 tells the story of his illness, and God sends Isaiah the prophet to advise Hezekiah to get his affairs in order, as he is going to die from his sickness. Hezekiah pleaded with God, so God extended his life by 15 years, resulting in the birth of Manasseh, who did more evil than even Jeroboam, one of the evil kings of Israel. In fact, after the kingdom was divided, Israel never had a good king. Manasseh was 12 years old when he became King after his father's death. I find it very interesting that had Hezekiah not begged God for more years, the country would have been spared of 55 years of his evil rule in Jerusalem. Again, however, God had knew this would happen. 

This ends my partial look at the lineage of Jesus, as I just wanted to point out the fact that God takes people and situations, and He turns them into something entirely different. We never know how things are going to turn out in families and friendships. I encourage all to take the time to study the Old Testament, and the lineage of Christ, and then compare it to the New Testament. These true stories bring great hope to people like me who make mistakes, but whom God can use in mighty ways to effect a Kingdom. Who knows what God has written in each one's book, the plans He has to give us a future and a hope (Jeremiah 29:11).

Selah.