Day 139 Lay It Down

5/19/2025

"You alone are holy, You alone are worthy,

You deserve the glory, Jesus You alone." 

 

I'm still in a state of wonder lost in the majesty of God. I've saturated my day with worship songs and choruses. While I cut grass today, the above phrases kept coming to my lips in song, over and over, I just could not get the lyrics out of my head. "Holy, holy, holy, Lord; God of power and might. Heaven and earth are filled with Your glory. Hosanna, Hosanna. In the highest!" Imagine what my neighbors thought seeing a crazy woman singing around her yard. Well, at least I didn't start dancing, this time! Nor did I walk the boundaries of the yard telling the enemy to take a hike or many other things one may see me doing to establish peace in Jesus' Name to my home dedicated to His service. Poor Daniel has had to listen to me several times today talking about everything the Lord has been sharing with me from last night's service with Jesus Image, along with today's study of the history of the Nicene Creed with the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem. He almost made it to bed before Mario Murillo's Tent crusade in Tyler, Texas began, but it was a down home style Pentecostal meeting, and I was home! There's always tomorrow! More of the same plus some! God is moving in the hearts of so many, so if you are burdened, take heart and have faith in Jesus.

Yesterday I shared a taste of a testimony given by a young man attending Jesus School at Jesus Image in Florida. After the message, Pastor Michael and the visiting Pastor, Brian Guerin from Ascend Church in Georgia, prayed over the students. There was one young lady over whom he spoke words that touched my heart as they were familiar, words the Lord had spoken it to me. Hearing it from Michael's mouth was a confirmation. Obviously, she had been dealing with some heavy matters, and he spoke a word from God to her. Now whether he knew her situation or if God spoke it as a word of knowledge I don't know, but it ministered to her, and to me. It was a true word from God, because it was scriptural. He told her she'd been carrying things that were not hers to bear, she was never supposed to carry them, and God said to "lay it down." As she began to cry, so did I. I've been laboring over some family situations, asking God what I could do to fix it. I heard those same words, similar ones I had spoken to two ladies, that I shared in a previous blog, who needed to stop trying to help God. But this word last night went so much deeper for me. We as parents, particularly mothers, so ache for our children when they suffer. I'm a regular bleeding heart wearing my heart on my sleeve, or so both my sons have labeled me more than once, because I care about everyone. But, my maternal love goes so much deeper. After months of asking the Lord what I can do or say to make a difference in my children's lives, to help them see that their lives can be different, He said "Lay it down. It was never yours to bear." The enemy had put me on such a guilt and shame trip, that this helplessness really wanted to cling to me. I'm grateful how God loves me, and He uses situations with others to speak words I desperately need to hear to me. As followers of Christ, we are made to think by some that we continue to carry our children their entire lives. This simply is not true. When a child becomes an adult, they are free to make their own decisions. If they need help, we help, but we never enable. Perhaps this is why this feeling of defeat has clung to me over all these years. I feel as if I have enabled my child to remain stuck in her illness, only seeking help as she allows. Over all the years I have assisted her, supported, yet I have been treated as if I have not helped her or if I abandoned her in her illness, but this has never been the case. She has rejected all offers of help, and it saddens me. I don't really care what any person thinks about me, only what God thinks, because I have always been there. Even now, although I am here, it was not for my own sake that I moved, even though I needed a home, but God told me it was time for me to come back. It was not an overnight decision. It took ten years for God to get things ready. Then He spoke again, and He sent confirmation, so now I have learned to wait to hear God's gentle voice before I make life-altering decisions. When I pray for others who have decisions to make, I always point them to the scriptures, especially the words spoke by Isaiah 30:21: "And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, 'This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left.'"

Brian Guerin shared in the evening service at Jesus Image on Sunday about loving Jesus, becoming like Him, because one day He's coming back for the church that He calls His bride. So our two fold goal is to know Him and love Him and second, to become like Him for Him. When we follow Jesus we will walk as He walked, and this means we will suffer. In the book of James, he begins by identifying himself as a bondservant (slave) of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ in the first verse. Then in verses 2-4 he says, "My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing." God allows us to go through things, so that our faith in Him is tested, and if we endure the test the reward will be patience, so that it has its perfect, complete, lacking nothing work in us. In essence, we learn our reliance is on the Lord who knows the plans He has for us (Jeremiah 29:11). He says to count it all joy when trials come, and they will. Jesus said so in John 16:33: "These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulations; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." Brian reminded us that Jesus is returning for a perfect bride, and He won't marry an impatient bride. So, in verse 4 the words "but let patience have its perfect work" suggest that we are to embrace this trial with joy. I'll let you chew on that one, but it makes perfect sense to me. I can honestly say that all the tests and trials I have encountered in my lift have had its perfect work in me. I would not want to repeat it, but I am different because of it. 

I won't leave you hanging...let's take a look at 2 Corinthians 1:3-5: "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also abounds through Christ." Basically, what this portion of scripture is saying is that when we suffer and go through troubles, hardships, tribulations, Holy Spirit, as the God of comfort, helps us overcome and walks with us through the process. We in turn help others when they go through difficult patches, because we empathize by our experiences, so we are able to help others. It's all about Jesus, and sharing our hope and comfort with others, as Christ instructed and demonstrated.

Doesn't that make you want to sing and praise God?! We have so much for which to be grateful.

Something to ponder:

"Behold, God is great, and

we do not know Him."

Job 36:36

"As for the Almighty, we cannot find Him;

He is excellent in power."

Job 37:23

Day 138 "Lions and Tigers and Bears, Oh My!"

 

5/18/2025

"Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the Author and Perfecter

of our faith." 

Hebrews 12:2

Sundays are always a "mixed bag" of interesting "goings on" for me. I usually follow my every day pattern with quiet time, devotions, five minutes with Pastor Jack for the verse of the day, and the global prayer call, but there is nothing routine when it comes to His time. But then, I always begin my day with thanks to Abba for giving me another day to serve Him. Just thinking about my mornings tires me out sometimes. Recently, I've had to shut down my phone because of continual texts received from a group of ladies who love to chat, especially in early mornings, sometimes continuing throughout the day. I really don't respond, because I really don't participate much anymore. It's been almost six months since I painted a doll face or knitted a stitch. I guess my life took a different turn after Christmas. I miss the ladies in both groups, but I felt as if I was being pulled another way. Things happen, and perhaps, I'll return one day, unless I get another direction to go. Like I said, my life does not follow a pattern, except God's, that is. He calls the shots, and I like it that way.

I've been attending morning worship at my parents' church across the road, and I find it to be quite refreshing, as Pastor John practices expository style teaching, walking through the scriptures, line by line. I believe in studying in context, so line by line is definitely the way to walk through the word for clear understanding and application. Yesterday Pastor Dustin walked us through the next portion of Paul's epistle, Galatians, a book I have found myself immersed in recently. There are others, but it never ceases to amaze me how God puts the right portions of scripture in my face when I need them. So many times as a pastor is expounding upon a certain thought, I will no sooner say the words to myself, than they are repeated by the one teaching. This is a little scary at times, but I guess it's God's way of confirming things He wants to make sure I am clear on. I ask Abba a lot of questions, and He is always faithful to answer me.

Galatians is Paul's rebuke to the church, as he has discovered that the Gentiles who believed on the Name of Jesus and were saved are now being told by false prophets that they must obey the Laws of Moses. I know I've spoken on this subject before, but it is worth sharing again, because there may be someone who is confused. If someone tells you something contrary to what you have been taught by your pastor, the first thing is ask your pastor, whom you trust for clarification. Also, it is essential that you read the word for yourself, pray, and ask Father God to show you the truth in His word. He answers those prayers, as He longs for close relationship with those who love Him. In short, Paul had to deal with this very subject about requirements for Gentile believers in Acts 15. The Gentiles were being told that they must be circumcised and keep the law. Paul consulted with the Apostles in Jerusalem lead by Peter, who sent a report to the brethren Gentiles saying:

The Jerusalem Decree

²² Then it pleased the apostles and elders, with the whole church, to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas, namely, Judas who was also named Barsabas, and Silas, leading men among the brethren.

²³ They wrote this letter by them:

The apostles, the elders, and the brethren,

To the brethren who are of the Gentiles in Antioch, Syria, and Cilicia:

Greetings.

²⁴ Since we have heard that some who went out from us have troubled you with words, unsettling your souls, saying, “You must be circumcised and keep the law”—to whom we gave no such commandment— ²⁵ it seemed good to us, being assembled with one accord, to send chosen men to you with our beloved Barnabas and Paul, ²⁶ men who have risked their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. ²⁷ We have therefore sent Judas and Silas, who will also report the same things by word of mouth. ²⁸ For it seemed good to the Holy Spirit, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things: ²⁹ that you abstain from things offered to idols, from blood, from things strangled, and from sexual immorality. If you keep yourselves from these, you will do well.

Farewell.

In this time as we witness prophecies being played out, there will be more people trying to bring confusion and division into the church. It is very important that we attend a church that teaches the inerrant word of God, the whole counsel of the word, and it is really important that we get back to Judeo-Christian roots and understand the importance of Israel and stand in solidarity with her. Sadly, this is not taught in the scriptures, so it brings misunderstanding. It is the same in the Jewish church, but thankfully, there are many Messianic Jewish believers who have received Jesus Christ as Savior or Messiah. This is another discussion, so I won't linger.

There are some believers, including pastors who are taking the time to look for others who are not preaching and teaching the word accurately, by their interpretation. I've been praying about this a lot, because since moving back, it has been very difficult for me to find a church. I know that God is directing me, but I have observed many things. When I first moved back to Virginia and was looking for a church, I was led back to the church we left when we moved to New Mexico in 1987, except it had a different pastor, and a different name. I sensed the feeling of "being home" when I was visiting for the first time and walked into the sanctuary, where I met a lady who knew me from back then, and the "seeming coincidences started coming. But we know that there are no coincidences with God, just divine appointments. But I was not meant to stay. At least, not then. The massacre in Israel happened on March 7, 2023, and my life changed with the daily prayer calls that did not allow me to travel far else I'd miss important information. This is why I started going across the road, and I am glad that I did. It's quite a difference going from Pentecostal worship to Baptist, but God has shown me that I am to focus on Him and trust Him. Besides Pastor John is doing a wonderful job in offering so much training and support to all ages, particularly to the men, so that they are equipped to be leaders in their homes. My parents would be so proud of the man Pastor John has grown to be.

It's amusing to me when people fear what they do not understand. Take Baptists versus Pentecostals, there's a world of difference in the way they worship, and in the way the gifts of the Spirit flow. As I started to say, there are people who make great efforts to prove that other churches are doing wrong things, and they are the leading authority on how God wants things. Sometimes it gets to be like a witch hunt on YouTube as someone pointed out to me. It does remind me of The Wizard of Oz when the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and Dorothy are in the woods, and begin to worry about lions, tigers and bears in the forest. So they tiptoe through the woods, carefully looking for any creature lurking behind a tree. Hence, in one voice, they repeat, "Lions and tigers and bears, Oh My!" as they cautiously walk along the path. Fearful of what they may find. This is the way it seems to me. A lot of time wasted trying to discredit others, fearful someone may be led astray, while children are left to grope alone in the darkness on their own. We have to do better. I'm always saying that too. 

My afternoon included a walk with a friend, and a short rest before I listened in on Pastor Greg at Harvest for my Group study, and later, I listened to part 3 of Jack Hibb's message on government. In the evening I listened to Jesus Image's Sunday evening service, and I am so glad I did. There was a wonderful time of sharing testimonies, and one young man spoke of his life before and after Christ opened his eyes to the life he now knows. He literally fell in love with Jesus, which I understand, but it is so wonderful when I see a young person speaking so deeply, weeping before the Lord. I'm sure there is someone out there scrutinizing this church and pastor as well, but let me just say, this one is the real deal. I love worshiping with them, hearing the testimonies, and the teachings. Nothing lurking in their woods, unless it's the Spirit of the Living God. I hope many encounter the Lion of the Tribe of Judah.

Day 137 Smiles

 

5/17/2025

"A merry heart does good like a medicine...."

Proverbs 17:22

Nicknames are common in the South, and they are generally reflective of a person's personality or a physical characteristic or the use of initials in place of full names. I've had a few given to me over my lifetime. My earliest recollection is being called Linnie Sue by my grandfather as a shortened version of Linda Susan. I've never allowed anyone else to call me Linnie Sue, because my papa was very dear to me, and it was all his, just between the two of us. Of course my grandmother called me Linda Susan once, but that was not a good thing as I was caught doing something wrong. Full names when spoken in like manner can bear consequences.

When I was an adolescent, my parents loved to take us to Alexandria to visit our great aunts, my grandmother's sisters. I loved visiting my cousins, and sometimes we'd go to the community swimming pool. I was only twelve, and always self-conscious of wearing a bathing suit. Girls were more modestly dressed in those days. The lifeguard was still in high school, and he had a raccoon tail on the antenna of his car. He was very friendly towards me, and he started calling me Smiley, because I smiled all the time. Later on in my 20's the Smiley turned to Sunshine, again because I was always smiling and happy. That nickname hung on the longest, and I hope it still reflects my personality. I tend to be a happy person, content with my life, but joyful because Jesus is the best part of who I am.

Today I decided to watch fun movies, silly really, but I'm a great fan of Johnny Depp. So today, off and on, I watched Pirates of the Caribbean, all five, but not at one sitting. In fact, I started on Friday mid-day, and then picked it back up in the evening today. I had never seen the fifth installment, so now I'm left hanging for the release of the sixth one. Who knows when that may be or if it will be. Regardless, I enjoyed the sheer nonsense of watching Captain Jack Sparrow in his charades, escaping the gallows, and always getting out of fixes in the most bizarre manner. A favorite line in most of the episodes is "Do you think he plans these things or makes it up as he goes along?" Whatever he does, he manages to outsmart even himself at times, and that in itself is laughable.

Laughter really is good medicine as the Proverbs says, and it has always served me well. I see so many people who are malcontent about one thing or another, and I can see the wrinkles forming just from the pouting mouths. I think I much prefer laugh lines, as they tend to pull the features upwards, rather than sagging downward. My son loves to tell me that I'm looking more like my papa each day, meaning I have a "turkey goozle" neck. He's so flattering, and it really helps my self image. I had a friend many years ago who used to do facial exercises daily in order to avoid the turkey effect or any other drooping as she aged. I tried it, but it made me laugh, so I stuck with occasional mud masques, but I don't think they helped much either. I guess I'll have to reconsider the facial exercises. At least laughter pulls my mouth upward, so perhaps a few rounds of laughter will be more effective if I avoid looking in the mirror while pursing my lips and jutting my chin out. There's not much satisfaction in watching that done.

Oh, well, that's about all the wisdom I have to share in this sitting, and the time is catching up with me again as the hour is late, and it will soon be time to rest up for another fun day. I'll try to keep it light whatever I decide to do after attending church. I need to hunt down my cat, Alex, and try to get the berries out of his fur. He loves to sleep under the bushes and roll in the leaves. His winter coat still needs to be thinned, so it should be interesting trying to get him to sit still long enough for me to clean him up. He's quite the adventurer, so he's always lounging in someone's bushes when he's not looking for his next meal in the field. How I love that cat!!

 

Day 136 The Day Before Tomorrow

5/16/2025

 "The whole meaning of prayer 

is that we may know our God."

Oswald Chambers

The day breezed by, and tomorrow is breathing down my neck. As usual, I'm having a late night, trying to gather my thoughts, make sense of my notes, but the day has been somewhat of a blur. Quiet time before my short, morning devotional with Pastor Jack was abruptly interrupted by the lateness of the hour. I somehow slept through my early morning wake up call. for the second time this week. I imagine these late night sojourns might be the culprit. I do remember sitting here at this very spot last night, running my fingers threw my hair, leaning my face on my hands, deep in thought, but so lost in it that I could not form one lucid phrase. I kept looking at my half-finished blog, shaking my head, because I couldn't make heads nor tails of anything I had written. I'd look at the page, read it without seeing or understanding what I had read, as if the page was blank. When I was able to gather my thoughts, I didn't change any of the former words, so hopefully it makes sense to the reader. It's not writer's block, although I've been there, but it just that I go so deeply within myself that I cannot find the words. All the thoughts welling up inside of me, and I shut down. Is that imploding? It's not violent by any means, it's more irrevocable silence, if that makes sense. My son kindly reminded me this morning that I'd had two such episodes this week. He asked me what was up, as I am not ordinarily that hay-wire. The events were quite different both times, but I have been more contemplative, and a bit troubled over some situations this week. It's as if I have angered the demonic hoard which is now trying to distract, belittle, or otherwise discourage me, but I am stubborn to boot, and my heart is steadfast.

I'm listening to Jesus Image Worship, and their joy resounds into resplendent worship and praise, but more. An excitement, an anticipation fills the room, and the dancing and invitation transfer across the airways to meet listeners, like me. The songs welcome in the presence of Holy Spirit and invite participation. Many times I surrender to it all and dance in poised graceful worship. "You alone are Holy, You alone are worthy.... You deserve the glory; Jesus, You alone." I forget about everything else and become lost in worship to my King. The enemy attempts to distract me with the cat, demanding her evening treat before surrendering to sleep for the night. My foot begins to itch, but I won't give in. "The King is in the room."

How can I share what I am sensing deep within myself, this closeness, this matchless love. "My Beloved is mine, and I am His" (Song of Solomon 2:1). How I yearn to share it with everyone seeking change in their lives, with those who think they have everything, who think their love is pure, but who do not follow  God's laws. There's so little time, Abba, how do I relate the glorious truth of Your love to those who think they see, but see not?! Lord, be tangible in their lives. Manifest Your presence. Bring holy fire and holy fear. 

When the Lord asked me to write "the story" I began at the beginning of my life when I was first aware of God's hand on me, but then I realized that "my story" is "God's story" from before the time He knit me together in my mother's womb, as Psalm 139 stunningly describes -  how He knew each of us before time even began, and how He carefully formed each of us, uniquely with His purpose in mind. All of us have the same purpose to bring glory to His Name, but He has called us to so much more, and the scriptures hold the truth of it all. To so many, sadly, professing believers included, it is a boring story of the rules and regulations, "thou shall and thou shall not," but once your eyes behold the wonder, you will begin to see there lies within the mystery of God the beautiful redemptive story contained within every page. You see with clearer understanding, and the stories become an integral part of your being. Granted, it takes time, but once you know Jesus, the scriptures reflect our lives and struggles, and we see the victories we have in Christ, and those He will bring in the future.

Perhaps, I'm rambling, but it all makes sense to me. Let me see if I can tie anything together. The book of Philippians was written by Paul as he languishes in a Roman prison, yet this epistle is written from the heart of a man who has great joy and a heart of gratitude, as he seeks to encourage the church at Phillipi. This is a different letter, as he was not displeased with the church, so he was not exhorting the saints to change their behavior. Paul always opens his epistles with similar words: "Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ." I'd love to receive a letter like that, and I assume most people would. The problem is that so few still write pen and ink letters. I still love to send cards and letters, and I have one friend in New Mexico who enjoys the lost art as well. And it is an art. It is so hard to find boxed stationary, at least I haven't been able to find any yet, but then I haven't been scouting for nifty findings since I went to Carytown and Shockoe Strip, now known as Shockoe Bottom, much changed since I lived here almost 40 years ago.

Paul continues the opening of his letter with thankfulness and prayer, common to his writings also. Our scripture comes from Philippians 1:9, but I will extend to verse 11 as I love contextual readings: 

"And this I pray, that your love may abound 

still more and more in knowledge and all discernment,

that you may approve the things that are excellent, 

that you may be sincere and without offense

till the day of Christ, being filled with the fruits of

righteousness which are by Jesus Christ,

to the glory and praise of God." 

Paul's prayer is the hope that the believers will gain more depth of understanding and discernment in the things that really matter, the highest and best. The Amplified Bible interprets verse 10 as: "So that you may surely learn to sense what is vital, and approve and prize what is excellent and of real value - recognizing the highest and the best, and distinguishing the moral differences; and that you may be untainted and pure and unerring and blameless,  that - with hearts sincere and certain and unsullied - you may [approach] the day of Christ, not stumbling nor causing others to stumble." 

In Chapter 4, as Paul closes out his letter, some of my favorite scriptures are found, because they deliver the message of peace, love and hope, even in the most dire circumstances in our lives:

"Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!

Let your gentleness be known to all men. 

The Lord is at hand.

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything  by prayer

and supplication, with thanksgiving, 

let your requests be made known to God, and the

peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will

guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things

are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are

pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of a

good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything

praiseworthy - meditate on these things."

Philippians 4:4-8

I memorized these scriptures early in life, and they have kept me in some pretty dire times. Jesus never fails, and we are not promised a tomorrow in the earthly sense of things. But if we walk with Him, following His ways, growing in His grace, then tomorrow will bring a day of no regrets and one unladen with a load of care. Tomorrow promises eternal joy and peace and a life unimaginable, full of joy unspeakable and full of glory!

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 to listening to a pastor. Last week I counseled a wife who was frustrated by her husband's seeming lack of interest in seeking God for an answer to his struggles. 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.