Day 231 By Many or Few

 

8/19/2025

"Then Jonathan said to the young man who bore his armor, 

'Come, let us go over to the garrison of these uncircumcised;  it may

 be that the LORD will work for us.  For nothing 

restrains the LORD from saving by many or by few.'"

1 Samuel 14:6

 

Today is the day for the siege on Sacramento - Californians standing for truth and righteousness, morality in government, and most of all for the safety and welfare of all our children, not just those who live in California. Prayers have gone forth and continue to surround the warriors who will be in attendance. As the scripture above testifies, "For nothing restrains the LORD from saving by many or by few." God is able to make all grace abound, and with God all things are possible. We continue to pray that hearts are open to hear and receive the truth, and that God will move upon the hearts of the ones who will vote on this bill. But this is only one bill, and the enemy never sleeps. Right now America is battling for the safety and welfare of our children, but there are many issues facing our nation today. Yes, God is in control, but He expects us to take care of our children, the greatest gift He has entrusted to our care. He also expects us to use the gifts He has given us so that we can stand up and make a difference in this world. This is a spiritual battle, and it is time for the church to arise.

In Ezekiel 11:19 God tells the people of Judah that He will take their hearts of stone and give them hearts that are tender with love towards Him, and that He would give them one heart and a new spirit. Sadly the people had turned their backs on God and entered into idolatry. In spite of warnings from the prophets, the leaders and people will not turn from their wicked ways. Rather than follow a righteous God who loves them, they continue to do things their way, opening the way for their eventual exile. Sadly, not much has changed with man today. We seem determined to do things our way, when we have a God who has gifted us with wonderful blessings and benefits through salvation in Jesus Christ.

Lately, I've been more deeply troubled by the way people behave. I know it's not new, and it has been increasing more each day, but it is particularly disconcerting when people who say they love and trust God almost come to blows over things they do not see eye to eye on. If this isn't bad enough, instigators have been placed in strategic areas to incite discord and mayhem in peaceful situations, resulting in stress and mental trauma for so many innocent people, particularly on our college campuses and in schools where children and students are trying to increase their education in order to be productive, wholesome citizens. To know that there are schemes and deliberately planned incidents that bring harm and more confusion, is sickening. In most cases, all of this ugliness and evil is a thirst, not for truth or equality, but for power for those who are behind it all, safe in the shadows, pulling the strings. And when people do not speak up for truth, it is just wrong, especially for the church to remain silent. Sometimes it seems as if it does little good, but we cannot become discouraged. When we are obedient and faithful in our service, God is faithful, and He hears our cries for help, and He answers. No matter how far the children of Israel deviated from God's laws, when they cried out to Him, He took pity on their distress, and He answered them. For years this was the way things went for Israel throughout history, but eventually, first Israel and then Judah were conquered by enemies God raised up to bring judgment upon them for their disobedience, and they were exiled. In spite of this, God promised to bring a remnant home. He always has a remnant, those who are faithful and obedient.

Fast forward to today, and God is answering His promise to restore Israel to her promised inheritance, and He is calling those who are scattered back to Israel, their ancestral home. His promise have been extended  to we who are believers in Christ, who are serving God, called to a life of godliness and surrender. He never has, and He never will leave us nor forsake us. Regardless of the size of the audience present today in Sacramento, God will have His say, and His truth will prevail, as it always has! Selah.                      

Day 230 Pack the Fruit

 

8/18/2025

"Learn from Jesus" 

 

As we continue our study of the Nicaean Council, recognizing the 1700 years since it began, our speaker for today brought a different slant into the study by considering the culture, traditions, and how other ideas infiltrated the church that do not agree with the Bible. This includes the Hebrew versus the Greek Hellenistic influence in 4 BC with Alexander the Great, the revolt of the Maccabees against the Seleucid Empire, a look at the Canon as a standard, and the influence of Plato and Homer. It was an interesting look at the rise of antisemitism from the sharer's perception. Honestly, there was so much taught in our brief time together that I will have to listen to the study again. ICEJ has made the studies available to anyone who desires to learn the truth about antisemitism and anti-Zionism that is invading our world spewing hatred for our brethren. The Christian Embassy also has tons of information available to anyone who desires to know the truth of the origin of the nation of Israel, and it can help those who cannot clearly see that God has spoken in His word beginning in Genesis continuing to Revelation. The main takeaway I grasped hold of is that "we learn from Jesus!" If we want to know the truth, consider what Jesus taught. I know that when I have been attacked in the past, I head straight to the scriptures to refresh my mind with what Jesus said! He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life! And He's the only one who died for us, and who rose from the dead, and is now seated in Heaven making intercession for us!

Pastor Jack was readying himself for the battle that he would be facing along with other Californians who are standing in support of our children against the risk of passing a bill that would be an open field day for traffickers. Certainly California is going from bad to worse in their freedom to predators in every sphere to run free. It is sad to watch our nation fall into decline, but thankfully God has given us another chance to wake up, stand up, and speak out for His righteousness and for His glory. The scripture for this morning's lesson in praying the word comes from Isaiah 45:22-25:

"'Look to Me, and be saved, all you ends of the earth! For I am God, and there is no other. I have sworn by Myself; the word has gone out of My mouth in righteousness, and shall not return, that to Me every knee shall bow, every tongue shall take an oath. He shall say, 'Surely in the LORD I have righteousness and strength. To Him men shall come, and all shall be ashamed who are incensed against Him. In the LORD all the descendants of Israel shall be justified, and shall glory.'"

God is saying that He has sworn by His Name, and there is no other! It reminds me of the verse in Ecclesiastes 4:12: "Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him. And a threefold cord is not quickly broken." In the Trinity we have a 3-ply cord, The Father, The Son, and Holy Spirit. Three in One -  God is omnipresent, omnipotent, and omniscient. We find the truth of these words throughout scripture, and they are truth that brings confidence of His presence in the lives of His followers.

It seems as if over the past month or two that rather than walk through the Bible, I have been poking along in the one instance, while I'm racing along in another. Sometimes I feel as if I can't catch up, because I'm Ms Must Have it My Way, and be consistent, while God has had other plans. And His are always much better, although, I admit, I still protest and try to catch up to where I feel I should be. Today my "read" found me lazing and grazing in Ezekiel, Chapters 12-15 which concerns the Condemnation for False Leaders. The commentator compares the two prophets God sends during the time of Israel's exile, and the pending Babylonian exile of Judah. Both use picturesque illustrations, directed by God, to illustrate God's messages to the people, but they are vastly different, and although they do capture the attention of the people, there is no change in heart.

In the section of Your Daily Walk, I found the comments very compelling, so I want to share them with my readers:

"Fruit is the evidence of the root."

"Think back to the last time you spent an entire day taming the shrubbery around your house. Perhaps you found yourself pruning, gathering, and burning overgrown foliage that was long overdue for a 'trim.' Do you remember the feeling of success when you hauled away or burned the last of those useless vines and sticks?

Now put yourself in God's place for a moment. For generations you have been working with a stubborn and rebellious nation - looking for the fruits of righteousness but finding only useless vines. You have repeatedly sent your prophets, but their messages have fallen on deaf ears. At last, your patience has been exhausted. It is no longer time to tenderly prune or patiently wait; it is time to pluck up and cast down - the painful price of persistent fruitlessness.

What kind of vine have you been for God in the last six months? If you had to place a label over your life would it read 'Needs Pruning,' 'Needs Patience' or 'Needs Pulling Down'? Pack an extra piece of fruit in your lunch today as a reminder that fruit-bearing is not simply a good idea; it is the reason God has left you here."

OUCH!!!

While I certainly understand the whole taming of shrubbery and trees, as my readers well know from my many mishaps I've shared, and the feeling of success, sadly, when I look out my door I see that once more the process must be repeated, as the foliage has taken on new levels of rebellion! Imagine how God feels when He waits patiently for us to shape up and produce the fruit of His many labors in our lives. When the least little inconvenience pops up, we whine, cry, and protest the inequity of it all! Yet, we are so blessed to have a Father who loves us so much that He gives us chance after chance, but, many times, to no avail. We are a work in progress on this journey called life, and we have so much to learn spiritually in learning obedience, following God's plan rather than our own, growing in His grace and righteousness, becoming more like Jesus, and bearing the fruit of His Spirit in our lives. Maybe it would be a good idea to "pack the fruit" into our lunch boxes, tie a string around our finger, do whatever it takes to remember the words of wisdom we just read. I know I will eat wholeheartedly! 

Day 229 No Tampering Allowed!

 

8/17/2025

"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."

Psalm 139:23-24

 

For all who follow me on social media (I use the term lightly), read my blogs, or find my posts on Pinterest, anyone who truly knows me knows that I do what I do only for the glory of God and for making His Kingdom known. I share my testimony for the same reason, and I attempting to write my book only because He said to write the story. The only story is His story, and it's the only one worth telling!!

I have shared with my readers and with anyone I have taught or spoken that we are engaged in a spiritual battle unlike any war or conflicts we have seen or endured in this world. The unseen realm is revealed in scripture, and the writers, inspired by Holy Spirit, have made it clear that the enemy will continue to wreak havoc until Jesus locks him in the pit for all eternity. One of his strategies is to mess with our minds, and when he cannot make us doubt or regress or otherwise take our eyes off Jesus, he finds a way to bring trouble into our lives in any way he can devise. 

In my experience I have witnessed horrifying things, at least to me, and I cannot abide the sick filth that has been allowed to infiltrate the minds of our children through textbooks, social media, television, video games, to name a few. From time to time I have noticed that within a post from a Christian ministry, there will be an obscene photo and link or unsavory terms posted as a comment. While this is nauseating, it has never, to my knowledge happened to me. Since I open my posts to the public for a greater audience, I open myself up to remarks that may be cruel, hateful, as well as posts as mentioned above. For a while now I have been noticing that my feed on Facebook has links across the top of my page of people or groups I follow, but there have been two "supposed" ministry links I do not follow added. One was PrayAmerica and the other Healing Hugs, both of which had small crosses or pictures of Jesus in the upper corner, but the photos displaced were pornographic or otherwise distasteful and certainly not what the label suggests as ministry. Whether these were generated by AI or in some other malicious manner does not matter, as I was able to remove them permanently from my feed and my sight. While I realize that this only comes from one evil source originating in the spiritual realm, it is being used by others in the flesh or natural as puppets of that evil force. I would hate to think that someone would have the ability to do that sort of distasteful activity on anyone's page. So I hope I was successful, as it seems, in cutting the head off that snake, and by reporting it to my readers, I hope it never happens to you. My eyes are like those of a child, some things we cannot unsee, and satan is very crafty when it comes to arranging these details or bringing up unpleasant memories. But he has failed with me, and I pray that you will rise up and do the same, silence him!

I find it interesting that in the daily embassy prayer meeting this morning that one topic was about the territorial spirits assigned to states, nations, regions in the world. Also, in my Daily Bible Project I have been doing with a friend, although we are studying the psalms, the devotion for today and on the 15th were speaking of spiritual beings and powers. I commented about it to my son this morning that I didn't understand why it would be included in the psalms we are reading. In my research of the subject and how it relates to certain psalms, I discovered it does not relate to the ones being read now, so I can only say that perhaps God strategically placed it there as a warning for me. I feel that the topic on the zoom call meeting was relevant for that conversation, but strangely timed, in my opinion. Perhaps I'm missing something, as I must say with all the accidents I have had recently - falls and burning my arm - I am a bit unraveled! 

Be blessed! 

Day 228 Sweetness of Heaven

 

8/16/2025

 "Is there no balm in Gilead, is there no physician there? 

Why then is there no recovery for the health of the 

daughter of my people?"

Jeremiah 8:22 

 

For some reason I woke up so tired, and it continued throughout the day. Friday was not a busy day or  evening, nor did I stay up particularly late. In fact, I wasn't a bit tired, but I went to bed anyway, as I'm trying to take better care of myself. I slept comfortably, except for the aggravation of the burn on my arm, but I had it bandaged to prevent problems, so I don't think that was a factor. When I don't sleep, my legs begin to ache as if I have poison running through them, and it makes it hard to sit, walk, stand, or lie down. Again, I was reminded of having a heart of gratitude no matter what, but it is wearing on my body  to have chronic pain and weariness. Still, although hard, it does not come close to the 57 years of my earlier life, before God healed me. I often think about the years it took, especially when I watch my daughter suffer. She's 53, and her problems began at age 4, so I hope she does not follow my timeline for healing. 

As I write these words, I smell the freshly cut grass and dandelions in the field outside my window. The weeds have a sweet smell, a fragrance that is pleasing to me. I have wondered if the smell is coming from outside or if it is the fragrance coming from Heaven that I often sense. In 2 Corinthians 2:14-15 Paul speaks of the aroma of believers to God: "Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and through us diffuses the fragrance of His knowledge in every place. For we are to God the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing." We are saved by faith in Jesus and the grace of God. When receive the free gift of salvation and turn from our wicked, sinful ways to life in Christ, when God looks at us, He sees only His Son, Christ Jesus. Knowing that He forgives me and accepts me and sees me through His Son is too wonderful for me. But, knowing also that I am the sweet fragrance of Christ to God is way beyond any understanding. The song, I Stand in Awe by Sovereign Grace Music, describes the wonderful feeling I have when I consider His love: 

"You are beautiful beyond description
Too marvelous for words
Too wonderful for comprehension
Like nothing ever seen or heard
Who can grasp Your infinite wisdom?
Who can fathom the depth of Your love?
You are beautiful beyond description
Majesty, enthroned above

CHORUS
And I stand, I stand in awe of You
I stand, I stand in awe of You
Holy God, to whom all praise is due
I stand in awe of You

You are beautiful beyond description
Yet God crushed You for my sin
In agony and deep affliction
Cut off that I might enter in
Who can grasp such tender compassion?
Who can fathom this mercy so free?
You are beautiful beyond description
Lamb of God who died for me"  

As I glance at the field, I see a mess of brown grass cuttings, matted and clumped together in piles, hastily discharged from the mower left to mulch the land. There are patches of green that seem to swirl around the field, forming islands of mowed, matted grass described before. A fractal, or an ugly mess, like our lives before Christ, but there is hope. Although a totally discordant mixture of browns and greens, unlike a field of wild flowers of varying colors and species forming irregular patterns, winding one way, then the other, hope springs forth. In this maze of color, the only green is that on the flower stems and grass blades splattered in between the clusters of creeping phlox. How I dream of a garden of fractals. I do have a volunteer flower garden of Black-eyed Susan flowers and some others I do not know names, but with all the rains, they were knocked over, and we had aphids that attacked some of the volunteers. Still, I have enjoyed them from my windows. I am grateful for the colors, and I am grateful for the brown, because I know that in due season, new life will arise from the earth with resplendent glory, bursting with all the colors of heaven. 

Nature always gives me a reprieve from what's troubling me in the present. It seems as if we cannot escape the suffering of the world, no matter how broad the imagination, but when we take time to enter the presence of God, bask in the glory of His greatness, see the beauty, smell the fragrance, and enjoy all He has provided for us, there is peace. His shalom peace that is perfection, beyond anything we could think or dream. Like a beautiful garden, even though it may have ugly brown patches, there is still beauty that takes preeminence. The awestruck wonder and the sweet aroma of Christ Jesus.

Day 227 Gentle Whisper

 

8/15/2025 

"After the earthquake came a fire, but the LORD was not

in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper."

1 Kings 19:12

 

Yesterday I celebrated my 75th birthday, a landmark in my life. Only God knows the length of our days, and He wants us to live our lives to the fullest potential He has given us for His purpose, bringing glory to His Name. That is the desire of my heart. When I look around this house, and I see the roof needing repair and upkeep, check out the condition of the sidewalks and steps, and the wearing of paint and repair needed to the house itself on the outside and inside it can be pretty overwhelming. Although most of my clothing is over 40 years old, it has withstood the test of time, because I sewed it myself, and it still looks really nice. I still get compliments on the quality and craftsmanship of my simple skirts. It doesn't matter if my skirts are outdated, because I have my own sense of style, and I know what I like. What other people may think or say, really doesn't phase me. So when someone asks me what I need or want, my mind goes blank, because honestly, I have everything I need or want at the time. There are days, like when I'm walking through Hobby Lobby, and I see all the calico fabrics or art stuff that my imagination begins to explode, but I just refocus my thoughts on why I went into the store in the first place. I really do not have the time to browse, unless I'm looking for a special gift for a friend. The point is that my life is so full of Jesus that I really don't need or want anything else. Now that may sound "holy or righteous," but I assure you, it is not. I've just grown past the desire to keep up with people, not that I ever did, but you get the point. 

A couple of days in a row the Lord directed my devotional reading towards topics relating to ingratitude of the heart. Personally, I like to think of myself as grateful for everything God has done for me, and for the kindnesses shown to me by others. But when I thought about it, I could see how I have erred recently on the side of not appreciating someone or something. It's easy to do by taking something a person says or does wrongly, or perhaps, picking up an offense of others who have been wronged. Again, easy to do. I attempt to ask forgiveness quickly, as I do not want an open door for the enemy to sneak in. But I pay close attention when the Lord speaks.

The scripture above from 1 Kings 19:12 relates to the time when Elijah the prophet of Israel is on the run from Jezebel, after he's killed all the prophets of Baal plus her devotees. So she wants to kill him. Interesting how this mighty man of God can swing from boldly putting 450 prophets of Baal and four hundred prophets of Asherah to death to fearing for his life. The story is told in 1 Kings 17-19, and it really is worth the read, but then, isn't all of scripture? Or it should be! So Elijah, aided by an angel sent by God to feed him for the time it would take to cross the desert, 40 days and 40 nights, makes it to the Mountain of the Lord, Mount Horeb or Mount Sinai. When Elijah gets to the mountain, God asks him why he's there, and Elijah releases all his pent up anxiety and fear, then God tells him to "Go out, and stand on the mountain before the LORD." Elijah does as he is told, and the LORD passes by in a dramatic way according to 1 Kings 19:11-12:

"And behold, the LORD passed by, and a great and strong wind tore into the mountains and broke the rocks in pieces before the LORD, but the LORD was not in the wind; and after the wind an earthquake, but the LORD was not in the earthquake; and after the earthquake a fire, and after the fire a still small voice."

God once again asks Elijah why he's there, and he tells God the same story of all he's done for Him, his obedience, and that all the prophets of God had been killed, except him, by Jezebel who is now after him. So, God tells him basically what He said to me at one time, "Get off your face!" God instructs him on what to do, and then God tells Elijah that He had reserved seven thousand in Israel who had not bowed their knees to Baal. 

It's in the quiet times that we can hear God's voice more clearly, as we lay our cares at His feet, and allow Him to instruct and heal. He knows what we need and when we need it. After all, He is the one who crafted us, formed us in our mother's wombs, and He has anointed us with the power of His Holy Spirit to accomplish great things for His glory. He's just waiting for us to surrender, admit we are not independent of needing His help. The word says that He is long-suffering, not wanting anyone to perish but all to turn their lives to Him. He's tenacious, as well. He never leaves us or forsakes us.

God invites us to experience His peace and rest. He gives us the Sabbath, so we can renew and refresh ourselves - make the crooked places straight as we recline beside the still waters, as Psalm 23 says. This psalm, written by David, was time of stress in David's life, but he knew the rest and provision of His Father, even in the presence of his enemies. In these trying times, uncertainties are reported at each turn or scroll of the cell phone, or each time you flip on the television hoping for an escape or to relax. There seems to be no end to the hoopla or mayhem. But God! He's our fortress in the time of struggle, our refuge in the times of storms. Isn't that what we sing in our hymns or read in the psalms? God's rest, His quiet, His very presence is available to us. Sit quietly today, wait, and see that the LORD is good. His faithfulness endures to all generations. These are not just words. They are promises He makes, and God always keeps His promise! May He whisper in your ear today in His still, small voice.

Day 226 Quarter Short of a Century

 

8/14/2025

 "So teach us to number our days,

that we may gain a heart of wisdom."

Psalm 90:12

 

I did it! I made it to the ripe old age of 75! It seems hard to believe, but more believable when I look into the mirror some mornings:

 

Alex loves to share coffee with me in the mornings. Usually we sit on the front steps enjoying the cool morning air, but this morning we thought we share a cup of Bischochito Pinon coffee that my friend sent me from New Mexico. I think he found it a bit strong, but I rather enjoyed it!

 

Later in the morning I decided to forego my usual schedule and enjoy a bit of fun with Daniel's cat, Mia. She goes for the slower songs that don't require much effort, but not me. I love a lively tune, like Staying Alive! I'm getting more into the fun fashion statements too. The old lady clothes stores carry just aren't me?! I prefer a little pizazz in my life, so I can kick up my feet and enjoy my life. It's not over til it's over! 

 

After a few dances, and a cup of earl grey tea, or four, I settled down into deep thought and contemplation. I dreamed of all the new adventures I would discover, perhaps a new business. I'd begun to redesign my style and how to accessorize. My daughter had been trying to teach me these basic tricks for years. At last my life is taking on a new direction.

 

I decided to go next door to visit my neighbors, Maureen and Willie, but they were busy trying out their grandson's skateboard. I think I'm beginning to rub off on her a bit, although I prefer mountain bikes and climbing trees. Besides which I learned the fine art of skateboarding when TJ, my older son, was about 14 or 15. He dared me to take a ride, so I did, and as I was flying down the hill way too fast, he instructed me to jump, jump!!. You've got to be kidding! The scooter was more my style!

 

I've always felt that there's nothing one cannot do if they have the "want to" or desire. Age, I felt, was irrelevant, only a number. I still believe that, and I try to motivate others along those lines, but when some reach a certain age, I guess the spark has fizzled out for potato chips, sodas, and soap operas. But I love taking risks! 

 

Just take a look at this beauty! Hogs and Heifers, move over, 'cause here I come!! I have a friend who lives in Penasco in Northern New Mexico, and she has been a member of this group for years. It seemed funny to see her riding her Harley, but she loved it, and it something she and her husband, plus a group of friends did together. They performed community services helping kids in need, and I'm sure they did much more on their road trips. I was not as available then, always working, but now! Who knows!

 

I've been considering joining a group of ladies I know who like meeting out of doors. I think their secret place is rather ingenious, and the park is a motivational spot for thinking up new escapades!

So much for a trip down memory lane, dreaming of my life without limits, but there's a time when one must settle down to the important things at hand. Today's a momentous occasion, my 75th birthday, so I need to consider celebrating.

 

 The perfect close to my day! 

 

Day 225 Ask Holy Spirit

 

8/13/2025

"Behold, how good and how pleasant it is

when brethren dwell together in unity."

Psalm 133:1

 

It seems as if I may be repeating this scripture from not too long ago, but I guess the right people must not have paid attention. But then again, not too many politicians or otherwise "public figures" know that I exist except when I cast my vote. Then, I guess, I'm just an anonymous number in a poll. Who knows?? What I do know is that some folks who are hanging with the in crowd, who used to be with the out crowd...my sphere of influence...are knocking at the proverbial door. There are some things I do, and others I do not do. I'm at a stage in my life that I am neither bullied nor coerced to do anything. Not even gentle persuasion or condemnation work on me. I know Who holds my hand, and Who guides my day.

Tonight is my night off, meaning no prayer meetings or church services, unless I choose to go across the street and fellowship or slip into the 10 pm service online with Pastor Jack. Wednesday is reserved for my Hour with Jesus, an hour of worship music with Terry MacAlmon. Terry has been pretty ill, and he's been hospitalized off and on with some serious conditions for the past two - three weeks. Thankfully, he met with us tonight, not in full robust health or full voice, but he loves his online family who join him faithfully each week. I'm sure I have mentioned Terry before, as I have Don Moen, who also has a worship spot weekly at the same time. I generally catch Don later on in the evening or on Thursday. Both have been around for years, so they truly are old friends, and I feel rested and refreshed after an hour of worship.

I also catch Fire Power with Mario Murillo and Todd Coconato that comes on at 7 pm on Wednesday evening. Mario is an evangelist who holds tent revivals across the nation, but God has had him focusing on California for years. There are other prayer groups focusing on soul winning in California, and there are many hungry people who flock to the meetings desiring change in their lives. Gen Z is not hopeless, they are seeking truth, and they are finding it in tent revivals, street revivals, worship in the streets like Sean Feucht's Let Us Worship. Although times seem grim, God is moving. He has always been moving in the hearts of those who honestly seek Him, and who hunger for truth and righteousness. I am a testimony of His saving, redeeming power. And I am not ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ, because it brings life, and our world needs life. Beginning in the church. I do not say that cruelly, but honestly, as a heart lamenting the condition of those who have fallen asleep, want to avoid controversy, and those who have fallen away, as Jesus predicted. My heart aches, as did the prophet Jeremiah who attempted for 40 years to wake up the people of Jerusalem, then watched it be destroyed by the Babylonians.

I'll save that discussion for another day, because I want to speak about Mario's and Todd's show tonight on Fire Power:Divide and Conquer. I posted it on Facebook, as I believe every Christian needs to hear it. Everyone needs to hear it to wake up, even if you don't consider yourself a Christian. I want to listen to it again myself. Mario is not a flamboyant personality, nor is Todd, who parades on a stage with gimmicks or fanfare. He's a simple man, who dresses the same all the time, and he speaks God's word all the time. He gives glory to God all the time. He has never asked for an offering until recent meetings, as the tents are growing bigger, and the requests to come to minister are increasing. Contrary to others in the ministry, his pockets aren't lined, and he lives simply. All the money goes to ministry. Most of his staff are volunteers, and he has many intercessory prayer partners. I know this firsthand. Anyone who is not familiar with either of these men of God should check them out, listen to them speak, and decide for yourself. We need truth rather than listening to watered down scriptures, spoken out of context. Pastors need to be attentive to the voice of Holy Spirit on the Sunday morning they entire the building, as He changes things at the spur of a moment. Listen. Let the power fall.

What Mario was addressing or to whom he addressed his remarks, were Christians of influence in government who are speaking out of turn. In fact one he named, who tunes in to his show, has been taking her concerns and opinions, making comments on social media, as do most legislative and executive branch members and those of worldly influence. Back in the day, before social media, these things were unheard of, and rightfully so. It is not the way any public servant, especially one who believes in Christ Jesus and uses His Name, should behave. I vote for men and women of integrity whom I expect to behave decently and withhold comments and opinions from public announcements which only serve to degrade our nation and make us a laughing stock of the world. The leaders of Russia, North Korea, and China love it when our honorable elected officials are eating each other for lunch. (It reminds me of times I have heard the pastor being eaten for lunch after church services when I was a child - not in my home, however.) The former administration, God bless, heal, deliver, and save them, is an example of such wrong doing. Now God has given us another chance, after punishing us for four years. Do you honestly think God does not have His way in all things for a reason? Read the Word. God divinely intervened, and He alone can save, but we, as His people, must walk righteously and guard our hearts, our minds, and most definitely our speech. The media is biased for the most part, yet people flock to hear what lies and coverups are popular for each day. No one searches out a matter, but then the same can be said of the modern church that listens to what is being taught from the pulpit without searching the word for themselves. I really don't understand this. I didn't grow up this way. I wasn't really taught the depth of what I learned as a child at church or in my home. My mother, grandmother, and teachers were wonderful, but I guess I was more of a Mary of Bethany type of kid, and I craved to know the truth. God taught me from an early age, and He continues to instruct me daily by the power of Holy Spirit who dwells in all believers. We have a power sources inside of us, and He's ignored. He's a person, a member of the Trinity. He wants to know you and instruct You. Jesus promised He's send us a comforter who would teach us all things about Him and draw us to Him. I really believe God called me from childhood, but I wasn't always listening, but I am now. Won't you please take the time to listen to Him, too. He's waiting. 

Day 224 Today, Then Tomorrow

 

8/12/2025

"I will love You, O LORD, my strength."

Psalm 18:1

 

As the music softly plays, and there's silence in the house, sounds erupt not too far from my house. I can't tell whether it's fire crackers or gunfire. This is an older neighborhood, and I live in my parents' home, located in a rural area of the county, with forests all around. It's not uncommon to hear a shot fired in the distance, several rounds, and close to holidays there are people always in a festive mood. When I was growing up I don't recall disturbances of this kind, but the people who lived here are gone now, like my parents. Some of the old friends live in their parents' homes where they grew up, same as me. Most remained in the area and helped their parents when they got older, I imagine. Perhaps some, like me, lived elsewhere and migrated back to the familial homelands. It's been fun discovering just who remains in the neighborhood and whether their stories are similar to mine. Our generation is dying off, it seems, but then, only God knows the number of our days. I guess I am feeling a bit nostalgic tonight. I'll be heading off to North Carolina in a couple of weeks or so for our Rowland Reunion, and although I am anxious to see my cousins after all these years and meet their families, I am sad that my family cannot be part of the get together.

It's getting late, as it usually is when I begin to write my thoughts and reminisce about my childhood, my early days of school and friends, or about the crazy mishaps of the day, as there are generally those. Last night I forgot I had rice cooking on the stove until it had burned. When I picked up the cast iron frying pan, I sat it between the two stainless steel sinks, hoping to salvage the good rice. When I picked up the pan, my arm rested on the area where the pan at been, and immediately I burned a large area on my forearm. It hurt so badly that I grabbed some aloe vera gel my daddy had in the medicine cabinet. I didn't notice that an ingredient had been added for pain relief that I happen to be allergic to - lidocaine. Fortunately, because the gel was a century old, the lidocaine didn't cause too much swelling on my already tender skin. In fact, it felt better, so I was able to finish cleaning up my mess and start again. This morning when I got dressed, I tried to be careful, as the burn had blistered badly, but I hit it, tearing the skin and popped the blisters. I later bandaged it with a tefla pad for burns that I had in my first aid kit, so I could protect the wound from myself. So today I nursed my wound, and I tried not to do anything else to myself. It seems as if I am always carelessly harming myself. Is that age-related too?

The big day is almost here, and I still have not planned my celebration. To be honest, thinking about celebrating the years without my family doesn't seem as fun. But I should be used to it by now. I tell myself it doesn't matter, but it does. Still, I can smile and wish them well. I'll receive phone calls or perhaps text messages, and I might receive a card. I may pull out the ice cream freezer and whip up some homemade ice cream! I have no problems eating that alone. I have to run to the grocery tomorrow, so maybe I'll find a gluten free cake mix and make a chocolate sauce cake. Yummy! I think I'm gaining weight just thinking about the goodies! I love green chile chicken enchiladas, so perhaps, just perhaps, I may decide to try the rice again, put on a crock pot of pinto beans, and knock out a batch of enchiladas! Sounds too wonderful to believe! I'll be transported back in time to my little hovel in Northern New Mexico, visiting with my close friends and Kenya, my special puppy neighbor. How I miss her, but she's been gone for quite some time, on to greener pastures with my other doggie pals from earlier days. Chasing rabbits in heaven no doubt!

Ya know I'm not as melancholy now as I was at the beginning. The memories always make me smile, especially when I picture my two border collies chasing after the rabbit who outsmarted them every day. Rascal and Lady were a pair, and oh how I loved to go walking in the fields and up the hills with them each day, as I gathered my thoughts for the art work I was designing at the time. They were a breath of fresh air. Then Kenya, an Alaskan Malamute, was my neighbor, my friend, and my dancing partner. She tolerated my foolishness, and I loved her til her dying day. I thank God for the memories, and the way He always filled my heart with joy. There's a verse in the Bible that says God "sets the solitary in families," and He did that for me on so many occasions when I was alone. When I moved home my son had Mia, a cantankerous calico, and then God sent me another friend, a semi-feral male cat, Alex, a Maine Coon wannabe. I call him that, because he has all the markings, all the traits, especially those big paws, but he's a little smaller. Perhaps he's the runt of the neighborhood litter, because he can be pretty skid-dish at times. But he has forever endeared himself to this ole lady, and although he prefers the great outdoors where he is free, he lets me know when he wants company, wants to play, or needs some grub. Honestly, I never thought I'd become attached to a feline, but he is an endearing one.

So much for my nightly jaunt down memory lane. Sometimes it's nice to remember, so I can thank God all over again for the blessings He's given me. He's always watching over me, and He gives me peace. 'Night.  

Day 223 Considering

 

8/11/2025

 "To everything there is a season,

a time for every purpose under heaven."

Ecclesiastes 3:1

 

A few years ago my close friend gave me a little book entitled, "Age is Nothing but a State of Mind." I've always believed that was true, because as I aged, I never seemed to change my perspective on many things. I tend to view most things from the eyes of a child who wants to love and trust everyone, looking for good and value in all things and people. I love to motivate people who are down and out or who have low self-esteem, or the proverbial underdogs or misfits of society, to dream. I've always dreamed of having a place deep in the woods on about ten acres of farmland where I can invite such dreamers to come and learn how to use the gifts God has given them. We all have gifts, but some people are so busy trying to exist from day-to-day that they cannot see any value in their lives. They feel they have no sense of meaning, so how can they even conceive of God creating them with built-in talents and abilities?! It's hard enough to wrap around the notion that we are made in God's image much less gifted in any special way! Unless you are blessed enough to be raised by parents and grandparents who understand that children are a gift of God be be nurtured and loved, then there's the danger of falling into the traps I've described of being unlovable, unwanted, not enough, or otherwise. It's all a circle of life, but it is how you learn to live your life - your best life - that matters.

I live a simple life, although it is rather complicated in many ways. I see things a bit differently than most people, as I tend to see into the soul of a person just by studying their eyes as they are speaking. The Message translation of the Bible says this about the eyes: 

 “Your eyes are windows into your body. If you open your eyes wide in wonder and belief, 

your body fills up with light. If you live squinty-eyed in greed and distrust, 

your body is a musty cellar. If you pull the blinds on your windows, 

what a dark life you will have!"

Matthew 6:22-23 

In William Shakespeare's King Richard III, Act 5, the words “The eyes are the window to your soul.”    were purported to be written. It also has been said that these intrinsic words could have originated from the renown artist, Leonardo Da Vinci, or the philosopher Cicero, but I rather like The Message translation, as it gives it more depth and clarity.  

I can generally "see" if someone is lying or trying to manipulate me by the way they present or represent themselves or how they respond in a conversation. Many people find it intimidating to have someone look intently at them and maintain the gaze. There are times that I look away, but only as a safeguard to maintain my focus on what I am trying to say to the person, and then only a brief blink of the eyelashes, and I'm back at it. Nothing escapes me when I am in my element. However, if someone interrupts me in the middle of what I am saying in a normal conversation among friends, I can lose my train of thought very easily. That comes from years of being knocked in the head, so it has finally caught up with me in the here and now, but, again, my forgetfulness is not because of age, rather due to trauma. I imagine that's why I love to seek out quiet places where I can retreat into solitude, commune with God and enjoy nature's splendor. It gives me peace, and I can compose my thoughts for writing.

Today was one of those days where I felt blank. Many things happened, as they always do. I could write volumes from the emails I receive, but I'm  trying to keep things simple. There is really nothing new under the sun, as I heard a new friend say recently. While there may be nothing new, there is certainly more evil being exposed, but I really don't have to read about it, I already know. My source of information is fool proof, in fact, Luke 8:17 confirms it: "For there is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed, and nothing concealed that will not be known or brought out into the open." Honestly, sometimes I feel as if I am the worst intercessor in the world. When we get together for prayer, sometimes I remain silently praying. In John 16:33 Jesus says, "These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." I believe in prayer obviously, as "keep asking, seeking, knocking," but sometimes I prefer to listen to what He is saying at the time, not everyone else. I hope that makes sense. Jesus asked me once, during a difficult time in my life - actually it was right before things got worse - this question: "Do you trust Me? Do you really trust Me?" So whenever I feel myself getting upset by all the news that comes my way, I ask myself that question. As an intercessor, a watchman on the wall, as we are called in scripture, I stand on God's word and His faithfulness, and I take it very seriously. It is what He called me to do. There's a portion of a psalm that I love to consider, especially when I pray with groups:

"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."

Psalm 57:7-11

  

When I whispered these words as a prayer, I was misunderstood, because there was strong warfare going on at the time. Later, I noticed a note written to me from another intercessor in the chat. She said, "My heart is steadfast, too."  

Day 222 Only Jesus

 

8/10/2025

"For I know my Redeemer lives...!"

 

Job 19:25 

 

This is the day the Lord has made, and I will rejoice and be glad in it! (Psalm 118:24). Each morning when I open my eyes, I say these words. Sometimes they come out of my mouth determined to make it so, as I struggle with pain and toss-and-turn nights. Last night was one of those nights, and I woke up feeling as if I'd run a marathon and fallen down a few flights of steps. Usually I'll shake myself, get up, drink a cup of coffee as I visit with Abba and read the word, then get myself ready to walk to church, if it's Sunday, or otherwise go about my day, but this morning was different. I knew I had a divine appointment, and although the enemy fought me off and on during the day with the need to rest, I was able to overcome it. I received strength and encouragement that I needed to share with my daughter, who cares too much what other people say. I understand this feeling very well, because I have faced rejection and feelings that my life doesn't matter, but I have learned how to be content and to overcome, because these thoughts are of the devil who wants to destroy us and our worship. The poet John Donne said, "No man is an island entire of itself," meaning no one is self-sufficient in himself. God gives us each other to live life and to become all we are meant to be, working together. At least that's my interpretation of the poet's message. In Christian vernacular it means we each have gifts and callings, but we can't do everything or satisfy the needs of all people alone. We need to find out who we are in Christ, our purpose, and keep our eyes securely focused on Him, no one else, because He is the only one who truly matters. When we are in heaven, and the roll is called, the question will be "Did you know that I loved you?" as Brennan Manning so uniquely put it. I know Jesus loves me, and He is the only way we can approach the throne of grace to obtain mercy in time of need. Only the blood of Jesus covers our sins and makes us free. If we hold on to things that rob us of peace, we are not free!

Each morning I listen to Pastor Jack Hibbs, Calvary Chapel Chino Hills, Chino, California, for a 5 - 10 minutes devotional as part of a community of believers (about 3,000) who desire to learn to pray scriptural prayers. He takes one verse or a short 1-3 verses portion of scripture, and he forms a prayer teaching us how to pray the word. This is not new to me, but I enjoy being part of his little group, and it speaks to me daily and sets the tone of the day prior to the Zoom call to Jerusalem. As things change in Gaza now, we need all the encouragement we can receive so we can encourage each other in prayer. This is the 674th day of prayer since the horrible massacre on October 7, 2023, and it can become frustrating when we do not see answers to prayer, as we desire. But God doesn't cater to the whims of man, He has His plan, His time, His purpose, and all will know that He alone is God! Very humbling for us to admit we don't know anything! Again, it's about keeping our eyes on Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith.

This morning I attended church online with Michael Koulianos, pastor at Jesus Image in Orlando, as I often do when I need to be refreshed and enlightened. The church is all about Jesus and becoming Jesus People, living in His presence, and loving Him. He increases, and the church decreases. Not looking at man or his accomplishments or educational accolades, only seeing Jesus. How refreshing is that! Michael shared from one of the same scriptures that Pastor Jack had shared, Colossians 1:9-19 concerning the preeminence of Christ and understanding our position in Christ. He also included verses from Ephesians 1:15-23 and Ephesians 4:7-10 which reinforce that He is all in all, Creator of all things, who fills all with Himself. It also describes our position in Christ in relationship with Him as He is seated in heavenly places. The entire book of Ephesians is a gold mine of nuggets of truth, and it is well worth the study to understand who the believer is in Christ, and how He has equipped us to live our lives in holiness, lead our families, and to teach and disciple the nations.

In the evening service, Jessica Koulianos spoke from Paul's writings in Corinthians, and this is where I want to share about our faith journey in Christ as His followers. Jessica is the daughter of Benny Hinn, the well-known healing evangelist, who also consults and teaches at Jesus Image School. Growing up Jessica spent many years in rebellion, confused, hanging with the wrong crowd, angry with her father, because he was never home. She became very angry and embittered. She received counseling, but she could not forgive her father or overcome the feelings of rejection, abandonment, not being "good enough" that plagued her mind and heart. She had to get to the point where she recognized that she was in control of her feelings, and she needed to stop pointing the finger at someone else for her choices and actions. She learned to take responsibility for her sins, her feelings, and she had to surrender them to God. When she did, she was set free and healed. As she noted wisely, the people who had hurt, harmed, mistreated her in any way, shape, or form, had moved on with their lives. The only person who was suffering was her. The enemy has a way of coming in at our most vulnerable times, and he knows exactly where to strike or bring in doubt and defeat and play on our insecurities, just as the serpent in the Garden of Eden did, "Did God really say...?" The Bible says he is a liar and the father of lies. When Jesus died on the cross and arose from the dead he defeated the devil, putting him under His feet, and that is where he belongs, under our feet! We cannot continue to have dialogues with him or entertain his lies in any way, or we will fall back into the rabbit hole of deception and deceit and depression. Forgiveness is key to victory in Jesus for the believer. As Jessica pointed out, the one who offended or hurt us has not only moved on, but they may be dead.

I often hear the words "but I need closure" or "I need to know why I was unwanted or unloved." If we allow thoughts to continue to haunt or anger us, giving them power over the truth of God's love, we are only destroying ourselves. The answer to most questions is selfishness or self-love. Put bluntly, it is sin, and we all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. 1 John 1:9-10 says, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, ad His word is not in us." The rest of the story is that we do not conform to what the world is doing, but we through the study of God's word, attending a good Bible teaching church, walking in fellowship with believers become transformed, our minds renewed, and we learn to walk in His character. It's a faith walk we choose when we decide to follow Jesus. The song says: "I have decided to follow Jesus, no turning back, no turning back." This is the journey. A life surrendered to His will and purpose.

The Apostle Paul knew more about suffering for the cause of Christ that most believers. At one time Paul became so defeated he wanted to die (Philippians 1:23); nevertheless, he continued to keep going. In 2 Corinthians 4:8-10 he shares:

"We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed - always carrying about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body." 

In 2 Corinthians 11:22-33 Paul gives a eye opening list of each trial he had endured for the cause of Christ, but I leave that to you for your discovery. In 2 Corinthians 6:1-10 he describes the "Marks of the Ministry:"

"We then, as workers together with Him also plead with you not to receive the grace of God in vain. For He says: 'In an acceptable time I have heard you, and in the day of salvation I have helped you.' Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation. We give no offense in anything, that our ministry may not be blamed. But in all things we commend ourselves as ministers of God: in much patience, in tribulations, in needs, in distresses, in stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labors, in sleeplessness, in fastings; by purity, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Spirit, by sincere love, by the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armor of righteousness on the right hand and on the left, by honor and dishonor, by evil report and good report; as deceivers, yet true; as unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and behold we live; as chastened, and yet not killed; as sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things."

This is the life surrendered to God. Jessica shared about accusations and unkind comments made against her father over all his years of ministry, and they continue up to this day. Any time you minister in the name of Jesus, you will be attacked, because the enemy hates Him, so he hates you too. And if you have "a past," there's all the more talk. As Benny told Jessica, we have to develop thicker skins, so we can take the heat of criticism. That was my concern when the Lord told me He wanted me to write the story. I've been married and divorced three times, none of which I wanted, but at this juncture in life, I see it as a blessing, and I see how God can take the horrible disappointments in our lives and turn them around for good if we love Him and are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28). And if we fall flat on our faces, or if we, like Elijah, run away and hide from the approaching enemy (1 Kings 19), or the taunts of friends (like Job's friends), or any unsolicited advice, Jesus is there to pick us up, dust us off, and set us on the narrow way again. He never leaves us, but He will ask us "What do you have in your hand?" as He did Moses as the people were crying and bemoaning the imminent threat of the approaching Egyptian army at the Red Sea.

In 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 Paul speaks of the thorn in his flesh that he begged God to remove three times, only to be told "My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness." While this may not have appeared as reassurance by a loving Father, Paul concluded by saying, "Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ's sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong." And this must be our response whatever we suffer or however we suffer in this life, whether physically, emotionally, mentally, or spiritually. The only thing that matters is Jesus!

 

Day 221 Sabbath Rest

 

8/9/2025

"Oh, that I had wings like a dove!

I would fly away and be at rest."

Psalm 55:6  

What do you think God does on His Sabbath rest? As He was creating each day of His masterpiece called "earth," what was He thinking?! Genesis relates that after the fourth day of creation, after dividing the light from darkness, He said that it was good. After the fifth day of creating birds in the air, filling the waters of the sea, He said that it was good. On the sixth day of creation He created living creatures, the beasts of the earth,, every kind that creeps, and "God saw that it was good. Then, He created man, breathing His breath into His lungs, and He fashioned woman from man, so He would not be alone. This God said was "very good." And on the seventh day, He rested. He was pleased with His creation, as the world was so perfectly designed to bring great pleasure and provide beauty beyond what we see with our eyes. Eden was perfect in every way, well-watered by the Lord, the wildlife lived in harmony with each other and with man. The sun and moon and stars glowed in the sky with clarity and radiance, no smog or irritants, no allergies, and I'll bet the insects weren't as bothersome as they are today. I wonder if they feasted on luscious fruits or green plants? If God made them, and if everything was good, then all of creation, including insects had to work in symbiotic relationships.

I woke up later than usual this morning, and although I slept well, or so I thought, my legs felt as if I'd run a marathon. I ask God to give me good dreams and speak to me, but I really haven't sat still long enough or focused enough to ask Him about it. I did dream, but they drifted out of sight, out of mind. Perhaps tonight I'll be more attuned to what God is saying to me. I hurried up and showered and dressed, as my Sabbath service began at 11 am Eastern time, right after the prayer call, and I don't like to miss a minute of it. The music alone brings me such joy. After moving here, my son, Daniel, told me that he thought I was happier than he'd ever seen me as I worship with my Jewish and Gentile friends, even if it online for me. Tennessee is pretty far for a weekly commute! But, he's right! As the Psalmist David said in Psalm 84:10: "For a day in Your courts is better than a thousand. I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of wickedness." One of my favorite psalms, Psalm 27 verse 4 puts it another way: "One thing I have desired of the LORD, that will I seek: that I ma dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to inquire in His temple."  

 

As I was considering my days growing up, Sabbath rest on Saturdays meant days with my grandparents, because we went to church on Sundays. In Sunday School we learned about keeping the Sabbath day holy, and we were taught that God rested on the seventh day after completing His glorious creation, but we were not told He commanded us to rest. What I remember is that He said to remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy. Each day is Sabbath to me, because each day is holy and set apart for Him. Naturally, as a child I did not have a clear understanding of such theological preferences, but I did try my best to be holy. Whether it was Saturday or Sunday, my "rest" was found enjoying God's creation while living out my freedom as a child, carefree to be who God made me to be. As I've mentioned several times in recent posts, I love reading and climbing trees.

 

I guess I'll never outgrow my love of being off the ground, but I stay closer to earth these days, especially after my recent dangling from trees proved I'm not the "child" I used to be! Like this dear, sweet kindred spirit, I am finding better use of my daddy's old, rusty wheelbarrow!

 

It makes a pretty good second "retro" yard chair," don't ya think?! Whether I'm hanging from a tree vine or sitting safe and secure, I love being in nature, and I believe that gardens are God's secret places where we can steal away from the busyness of life and enjoy, as He did, all that His hands hath made. If the marvel and wonder of all life surrounding us in nature does not shout His Name, we have only to look to the stars and the skies, or the seas and the waves that echo His voice. God is everywhere we look, and He is in everything we see, where we walk, where we breathe His air and live out His purposes. May I forever be a child at heart who beholds the wonder with every breath I take.  

 

 "And on the seventh day God ended His work which He had   

done.The God blessed the seventh day and sanctified

it, because in it He rested from all His work which

God had created and made."

Genesis 2:2-3

Day 220 Small Beginnings

 

8/8/2025

"For who has despised the day of small beginnings?

Zechariah 4:10

 

Here I sit. It's almost midnight again. This has been such a quiet day, except for one phone call that could have become more incongruous had the conversation not ended abruptly. I have learned to say little when someone is upset, trying to displace their anger on to me, who actually has little to do with the problem or question at hand. Life holds a series of mishaps and unfortunate circumstances, but only God knows the answers. Many times the answer to why someone does or doesn't feel a certain way comes down to one thing - selfishness or self-love. I hate to use the word narcissism, because it has become overused in my life to explain away certain behaviors of others. I simply do not have answers to certain questions, but I do have regrets and feel deep sorrow that certain things happened or are happening still to cause anger, hurt, or unforgiveness to steal peace. Sadly, this is happening all over the world, but then Jesus said...! It seems as if it always comes down to warnings of things to come. I would love to enjoy one entire day of relaxation, but this is my life, and I am content. Paul is my example of peace in the midst of storms and finding contentment in all seasons of life. What a warrior!!

Enough of that! The day passed quickly, or so it seemed, but it was a restful day. I chose not to go outside and work, because I've spent three long days working outside this week, and I am exhausted! I do love being out there, but if you read my blogs, you'll know already the one little "thing" that makes it unpleasant - mosquitoes. My son is fascinated about it. He wants to know why every mosquito in the county loves to feast on my blood. What can I say? Only God knows!!

I made some progress today finishing up my past blogs for two days, and now here I am with today's entry. It may be late at night, but that's okay. I'll adapt. I never realized how hard I have to concentrate in order to write a good story. If I'm messing around with my son, with our "imaginary friends," story lines flow from our mouths, and even when I'm sitting quietly with the Lord, praying or just listening, what's on my heart empties out onto the pages of my journal, but I cannot seem to transfer the sentiment to my blog. Sounds silly, but somehow it just doesn't flow in print as it does in tears. When God told me to write the story, I tried, but I couldn't successfully sit down at a certain time of day and write. One of my friends suggested that I pick a certain time of each day, get in a quiet place, and write. She didn't understand that my life is rather erratic, especially the past (almost) two years. I never know when my alert will go off calling me to the "wall" for one thing, but I am involved in other prayer efforts other than with the Christian Embassy in Jerusalem. But that is my privilege, my joy. I do write excessively in my journals about everything that happens in a day, but my notes are often vague and incomplete, snatches of what was going through my mind and from my heart at the moment. Today was an exception.

The prayer calls always begin and end with a worship song, and it seems recently as if the pre-recorded songs have been "blasts from my past." Something overcame me, or Someone, and I wrote a little "blip" on Facebook:

"I grew up singing beautiful hymns in church, hearing my mother and grandmother singing them at home. What a glorious inheritance. When my spiritual journey truly began as a very young adult, Integrity Music, Maranatha, Vineyard, and later Hillsong offered simple, pure worship songs. I still sit for hours listening to Don Moen, who hosts an hour on YouTube on Wednesday nights, as does Terry MacAlmon. I remember being introduced to Paul Wilbur at an early age, and now I support his ministry which reaches to the Lemba Tribe of Zimbabwe, an older Jewish Tribe. My beloved Africa and Jewish family! It really pleases me that these simple songs, pure worship, are becoming popular again in prayer ministries. ICEJ has been beginning and ending our sessions with these wonderful songs. Even in my Tuesday night small prayer team we sing the oldies, but forever goodies. I love the new worship songs of younger worshipers today, but I have a deep, rich heritage of music, beginning with the Jesus Revolution, that many do not. I thank God for this gift. He is so faithful, even when we...I...was not back then. I hope you'll check out some of these older tunes, but please do not forsake the hymns. In fact, many of the modern day worship songs incorporate the hymns, lyrics and melodies. You'd be surprised! God bless your day. Shalom."

Music is an integral part of my daily quiet time. I play it softly in the background as I write, because it encourages and inspires me hearing the lyrics recalling the faithfulness of God. As I write this, I hear the words, "From the rising of the sun til the setting of the same, Your love endures forever. Bless Your holy name. In the morning when I wake up, to the breath within my lungs, I will praise You for Your goodness, I will worship with my tone. Every heartbeat is a miracle, every moment is a gift. In Your presence I find freedom; in Your love my spirit lives." The lyrics are from "Shelter Me (Psalm 91 in Song) by Elohim Songs. Each day it seems there's a new worship collection in my YouTube feed, that I share on Facebook generally. Most are instrumental, and I particularly enjoy the gentle strings of the harp or violin. Now if I want lively violin I can switch over to Lindsey Stirling, who plays mostly movie scores, plus she choreographs her videos. She lists her genre as "Classical," and she is an extremely talented, young woman! She was brought up in the Mormon Church, but her views are not staunchly in line with the views of the religion, so perhaps the Christian songs she has played are changing her heart. That's what happens many times. I have heard more than one testimony on K-Love where someone planning to take their life turned on the radio, and God had just the right song to reach them in the depth of their pain. He is the God of the impossible! His timing is perfect! 

These are my "small beginnings" as I call them. God said to write, and I am doing that. One of my friends told me that she's reading, and enjoying, my blog, so that is something. I don't use ads, because I don't think I have control over what is posted. I have considered my own domain, but that's for another day. I'm like Scarlett O'Hara - "Oh, diddle dee, I'll think about that tomorrow!"

Day 219 Abundant Life

 

8/7/2025

"Where once were thorns, fir trees will grow;

where briars grew, the myrtle trees will sprout up."

Isaiah 55:13

 

While studying Isaiah this morning, I was caught a little off guard when I ran across some scriptures pertaining to myrtle trees. I must say it is the first I really paid that close attention to the word, unless it was not used in the Bible I used before. I am getting reacquainted to a newly purchased New King James edition, as my daddy's fell apart on me. That seems to happen a lot! Then I also use The Daily Walk Bible for my daily tryst, and that one didn't have any space left to write in the margins, across the top or bottom or sides. I loved both of them, because one was my daddy's and the other I'd used since giving one to a friend in 2015 who'd never read the Bible in its entirety. The Daily Walk, I thought, was written in the New Living Translation, but this one is The Living Bible, so it's slightly different, another change for me. I am finding little things worded differently without changing the original intent of the King James Bible that I had as a child. Too many changes for this ole gal!

The title of Isaiah 55 is called "An Invitation to Abundant Life." It reads:

"Say there! Is anyone thirsty? Come and drink - even if you have no money! Come, take your choice of wine and milk - it's all free! Why spend your money on food that doesn't give you strength? Why pay for groceries that do you no good? Listen and I'll tell you where to get good food that fattens up the soul! Come to me with your ears wide open. Listen, for the life of your soul is at stake. I am ready to make an everlasting covenant with you, to give you all the unfailing mercies and love that I had for King David. He proved My power by conquering foreign nations. You also will command the nations, and they will come running to obey, not because of your own power or virtue, but because I, the Lord your God, have glorified you." (Isaiah 55:1-5)

Wow! That sounds like an amazing deal! Good stuff free, all of it, if we come - note - "with open ears" - and a thirsty soul. Yesterday I blogged about ears being attuned to the voice of God, rather than anything man offers. Sounds like an invitation to Kingdom living, but there's a time limit to the invitation. Next comes the provision:

"Seek the Lord while you can find Him. Call upon Him now while He is near. Let men cast off their wicked deeds; let them banish from their minds the very thought of doing wrong! Let them turn to the Lord that He may have mercy upon them, and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon! This plan of Mine is not what you would work out , neither are My thoughts the same as yours! For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than yours, and My thoughts than yours."(Isaiah 55:6-9)

Although these scriptures are written to Israel, they apply to everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord for salvation. The invitation is open, but there is a time limit here. In 2 Corinthians 6:1-2 Paul the Apostle is calling the lost to come when he writes, As God's partners we beg you not to toss aside this marvelous message of God's great kindness. For God says, 'Your cry came to me at a favorable time, when the doors of welcome were wide open. I helped you on a day when salvation was being offered.' Right now God is ready to welcome you. Today He is ready to save you." 

Now the promise comes and the mention of my beautiful crepe myrtle trees:

"As the rain and snow come down from heaven and stay upon the ground to water the earth, and cause the grain to grow and to produce seed for the farmer and bread for the hungry, so also is my Word. I send it out and it always produces fruit. It shall accomplish all I want it to, and prosper everywhere I send it. You will live in joy and peace. The mountains and hills, the trees of the field - all the world around you - will rejoice. Where once were thorns, fir trees will grow; where briars grew, the myrtle trees will sprout up. This miracle will make the Lord's name very great and be an everlasting sign of God's power and love."

With the reconstruction of Israel, wonderful crepe myrtle trees with lovely pink and lavender blossoms will grow. There are also white blooms, but I prefer my pink and lavender colors. So vibrant, and the blossoms hang down almost like clusters of grapes hang. In Nehemiah 8:15 the people were instructed to gather branches from olive, myrtle, palm, and fig trees to construct the booths for the Feast of Tabernacles. During these feast days, they were supposed to live in booths and outside dwellings, so they could remember the days of wilderness wandering and the provision of God. Zechariah 1:8-11 the prophet is receiving prophetic visions of what is to come. He saw a man sitting on a red horse next to the river who identifies himself as the Angel of the Lord. When Zechariah asked about the horses present, the Angel of the Lord told him that they was being sent to patrol the earth. As Zechariah was speaking with the Angel, the other riders returned from their patrol and reported that they found the earth in prosperity and peace. According to the dictionary, the myrtle tree is a prophetic picture of God's promised blessing. In the book of Esther, Esther's Hebrew name, Hadassah, meant "myrtle" or "myrtle tree" and was a symbol of peace, love, and prosperity in the Jewish tradition. It's no wonder that I feels such peace sitting among the trees in my retro chair. It's refreshing to just "be."

This gives me confidence that my efforts in keeping these trees pruned and free of those nasty vines and parasites will produce even more glorious blooms with perfumed fragrance wafting across my yard to others, appreciating the beauty and the bounty of our Father who loves us. May you be refreshed in His presence, filled with His love, and surrounded by His peace, His shalom.

Day 218 If You Have an Ear...Listen!

 

8/6/2025

 "He who answers a matter before he hears it, 

it is folly and shame to him."

Proverbs 18:13

 

There are two things that disturb me greatly - people who butt in before you finish talking and those who answer without hearing what was actually being said. Now I realize that there are times in our enthusiasm that we may blurt out a response before one is requested or required, but that should be guarded against with all diligence, because it is inconsiderate, and often, irritating. It makes the speaker feel as if his/her words are not important enough to be shared or heard, or it gives the feeling of "Hurry up and tell me, don't you know I have things to do!" Or that what he/she has to say is more important that what the speaker is desperately trying to share, often with great deliberation. I know that if someone interrupts my train of thought, I forget what I was saying, not because I am older, but I have been hit on my head more times than I'd like to remember. It takes a toll, and the effect is like a boxer who's been pounded so many times. We lose our train of thought easier from the distraction, and it can make one very angry.

Recently, I read the following in a devotional booklet:

"Patience and understanding are gifts from God that bring wisdom into your life. When you take the time to truly listen, you allow His peace and truth to guide your actions. Rushing to respond can lead to misunderstanding, but choosing silence and humility paves the way for compassion and clarity. Trust in God to help you pause, reflect, and act from a place of love and service." (60 Days of Prayer).

Jesus often spoke in parables when He taught, and although the crowds were generally well-attended and the people were listening intently, sometimes they did not understand. In Mark 4 after sharing the Parable of the Sower with the people, Jesus ended by saying, "He who has ears to hear, let him hear!" Shortly after that sermon, the disciples and inner circle of believers and friends, when they were alone with Jesus, asked Him the meaning of the parable, as they often did:

"But when He was alone, those around Him with the twelve asked Him about the parable. And He said to them, 'To you it has been given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God; but to those who are outside, all things come in parables, so that 'Seeing they may see and not perceive, and hearing they may hear and not understand; lest they should turn, and their sins be forgiven them.'"  (Mark 4:10-12 and Jesus quoting from Isaiah 9:6:9-10)

In the verses that follow in explanation to their inquiry regarding the meaning of the parable, Jesus begins with these words: "Do you not understand this parable? How then will you understand all the parables?" He responded more vigorously when Philip, one of the disciples, who had been with John the Baptist, asked Jesus to show them the Father. This happened before the Feast of Passover during the last supper. Jesus has washed their feet, identified His betrayer, given them the New Commandment, predicted Peter's denial, and told them, once more, about His death. Here's Jesus' response in John 14:7-10: 

"'If you had known Me, you would have known My Father also; and from now on you know Him and have seen Him.' Philip said to Him, 'Lord, show us the Father, and it is sufficient for us.' Jesus said to him, 'Have I been with you so long, and yet you have not known Me, Philip? He who has seen Me has seen the Father; so how can you say, "Show us the Father?" Do you not believe that I am in the Father, and the Father in Me? The words that I speak to you I do not speak on My own authority; but the Father who swells in Me does the works.'"

The disciples had been with Jesus for three years, and He had taught them many things, yet they failed to understand, even up to His death. After His crucifixion, when He appeared to them, there was doubt. Thomas' doubted His resurrection until he saw the pierced hands and feet and put his hand into the wound on His side (John 20:24-29). After 40 days post-resurrection, as Jesus was ascending into glory, the disciples were standing there, "gazing steadfastly," as Jesus disappeared into the clouds. As the disciples stood there, an angel came and asked them what they were doing! (Acts 1:9-11). I can almost see them standing there gawking, probably with their mouths open, wondering "Where's He going? Is He coming back?" They still had some questions, until finally on the Day of Pentecost, they truly got a dose from Heaven as Jesus told them. Holy Spirit and power!

What happens to them is still happening today. We listen to the words Jesus said, and we accept them wholeheartedly, yet, although we have "seen" miracles and promises fulfilled and "heard with our ears" what He said, and we can probably quote it back if prompted to do so, still, although we have not received the message in our hearts, because we weren't really listening.

I could give you many examples of times in history or present day when, because someone was not paying attention, tragedy and untold horror have been the result, usually crimes against innocent children. Pay attention to what your children are saying, or not saying, for that matter. I often wonder what my children's lives would be like today had my children not called them liars. Sadly, only the Lord knows if I was too busy to "see." We all have our skeletons in the closet. I'm just more vocal. I don't care what someone else thinks of me, only my Savior. If something in my life helps someone, I will speak up. I thank God daily the I finally got out of that rabbit hole of lies and schemes of the devil. But, no one was listening.

One matter right now happening in California that will greatly harm our children and take away parental rights to protect them, goes for approval on the 19th of August in Sacramento. I have been posting on Facebook about Governor Gavin Newsom's bill, AB495, also referred to as the “Family Preparedness Plan Act of 2025,” that seemingly was written to protect immigrants and provide safety and support, but tucked within the individual sections are laws that would do the opposite, but not just the immigrants, but for all children! So please listen, hear, and do something. I always post opportunities for action on my page.

Lord, give us ears to hear and hearts to understand!

"My son, give attention to my words; incline your ear to my sayings.

Do not let them depart from your eyes; keep them in the midst

of your heart; for they are life to those who find them,

and health to all their flesh."

Proverbs 4:20-22    

Day 217 Faith Like a Child

 

8/5/2025

 "Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, 

you will never enter the kingdom of heaven."

Matthew 18:3

 

I woke up to overcast skies and misty rain. Fortunately, by afternoon I was able to cut the back yard, although with much difficulty due to the lush, damp grass, but surprisingly, the drain ditch was dry, and it hasn't been that way all summer. We were beginning to think the pipe had burst, because it was full of water all the time, and it flowed down the ditch, but apparently, that was not the problem. Whatever it was, I am grateful for the divine intervention in drying it in spite of all the rain. I still have the sides and front yard to cut, and the forecast calls for rain the next few days, so I don't know when I'll be able to finish. Still, there's plenty to do inside.

I'm relieved that my afternoon turned out better than the morning began. It was one of those days when the emails came in faster than I could read, delete or file them. I had gotten behind in posting my blogs, and although I had the notes, the topics of the days were heavy spiritually and emotionally, but I managed to get it posted. I'm not sure if it met the approval of whomever reads my blogs, but it really doesn't matter, because I write what I feel the Lord puts on my heart. I pray over everything, because I hesitate sometimes to write what I feel, and yet, God said to write the story. The story I am discovering, is His story, seen through my eyes and about my life with His hand upon it, if that makes sense. I'm still trying to figure it out, but I hope I get it right.

The Lord says that we are to become like little children, and I understand that. Children are very humble, loving, and easily accept things as truth. In season one of The Chosen, there is one episode where a little girl encounters Jesus camped in the field where she plays. She brings a friend, then friends, and the group innocently accept the friendship of Jesus whom He teaches to craft items while He teaches them stories about the Kingdom. it is so refreshing when I see children praying, dancing before the Lord, enjoying His company, and He finds much joy sharing time with them. That's the way I love to worship Him. Dancing, laughing, enjoying the time. It's easy to talk to talk to Jesus about anything. He cares about everything.

When I taught children's church I would use  puppets to tell the stories I had written. My daughter was the teacher, in front of the puppet stage, and I was the puppeteer behind the curtain. At first we had two puppets, two dogs, Benji and Browser. Benji was always trying to keep Browser out of trouble, especially in church. He wasn't an  ill-mannered puppy, Browser was a little mischievous, in a playful way, but he had never been to children's church until Benji invited him. It took patience and teaching the right and wrong way to behave, especially in church. The children in the class loved the two puppies, and each week a new lesson was taught in a way the children could understand and remember. Plus, they could share with their families the misadventures of Benji and Browser. All three of my children eventually helped me in my puppetry ministry over the years, and the creativity still flows after all these years. 

My son is particularly fond of Grinch, so one day, close to his birthday, while I was shopping in the Trading Post, I noticed a little fellow thrown into a bin with other Grinch babies. He seemed to jump out and plead with me to choose him, so I brought the little feller home. He sat on Daniel's shelf downstairs for a month or two, wordless, until one day, overhearing my conversation with Daniel about a lady who always said "huh?" during church services when she didn't understand, said one word - "Huhhhhh??" From that day forward that little guy has taken on his own personality, and there's never a dull moment around here! I told my son that we should write some of the fantastic stories Grinch tells in a notebook, so we can write a book. Grinch's actions resemble Browser's first days before he attended children's church. I told my son that puppets could be very therapeutic to kids in trauma. I remember when I was a child that I'd talk to my stuffed animals, because they were safe, and they didn't get mad when I shared things with them. Whenever I used puppets to teach children the stories  of Jesus, or to use them to explain right and wrong behavior, they listened, and they learned. Play therapy is very beneficial to children in trauma, and the technique has been used with adults who have been so deeply injured in childhood and who have never recovered. 

Perhaps my son and I are are just two crazy adults who have way too much fun acting out the antics of our often obnoxious, but extremely precocious little Grinch. Sometimes my son gets a little too enthusiastic with the bad attitude, and I often worry that the neighbors will call the police, but so far so good. I did warn my friend that if she heard some shouting, not to worry, because we were having fun! She laughed, because she is learning that I am "one sandwich short of a picnic!"

God has called us each to go out into the world, and we are to help others, even in less than normal means, but then He uses donkeys and unconventional ways of doing things. We each have our unique gifts and talents, so if I can help a child or adult regain mental peace and the ability to tell their story, bringing deliverance, freedom, healing, and salvation, then that's a pretty good day in my humble opinion. It's all a matter of prayer, humbly approaching the throne of grace, as little children do unhindered by the cares of the world.