Day 293 Gleaning

 

10/20/2025

"As we learn to know Jesus, our prayers become

quiet, confidential, and blessed conversations with Him,

our best friend, abut the things that are on our minds."

O. Hallesby

 

Waking up with determination in my heart and a prayer on my lips, I managed to steal myself away in quietness, to sit alone with God to seek my day. I admit it was a struggle as I awakened with this severe aching pain, I call it discomfort, in my shoulders and arms that has been plaguing me for weeks now. The battle has been gearing up steadily for months, and I don't have a clue as to what's wrong, mostly because I don't want to know. I just keep going. That is my life story, but I confess that there are days I want to cry, which does little good with the exception of clearing my sinuses. Pain is not something we make light of, but this is my way of coping with things, and it has worked for my 75 years of life. I trust God, because it is He who has made me, and I am fearfully and wonderfully made, with a plan and purpose. Nothing can hinder His plans for my life.

Around noon I packed up my doll kit and headed off for Dolls on Mission group. I had painted faces that I needed to turn in. The group seems smaller and smaller each time I go, but it was a cheerful group and an enjoyable time. I did not succumb to the evil of gluten at the munchie table of goodies provided for the workers, and even though the scrumptious appearance of carrot cake on my neighbor's plate was enticing, I fought the urge. Gluten is not my friend, and if consumed it is a painful reminder of the consequences of going against the stern warning of my doctor. Rather than painting faces today, I elected to draw the pattern and cut out the heads for someone else to paint. After that I cut out the bodies, as one cannot have a head without a body! The devotional discussion provided by one of the ladies applauded our efforts as missionaries here at home - as we are making the dolls for children in foreign countries, bringing the Gospel of Jesus Christ to them through the message of the dolls. It's a lovely way to pray for those who receive these precious creations from our hearts to theirs. We have one lady who accompanies some of the dolls to the country of choice, as she is a volunteer for Samaritan's Purse Operation Christmas Child. I was invited to take part in the chapter close to my home, but I declined due to the overload of ministry work I have now. I do love Samaritan's Purse as a ministry for so many needs, not simply Operation Christmas Child. I have thought of applying for a position, but I am waiting for a clearer directive. Sometimes I get back into that old thought mentality of being too old to serve. When I go to the Dolls on Mission on Mondays that idea flies out of my head as I see Eva, who is 101, still working hard at her table stitching up the closures after the dolls are stuffed. She walks in unassisted, and she is remarkable! 

Back home I had supper to prepare and many computer things to attend. I receive a never-ending battery of emails, many of which are filed for another day that never comes. I'm trying to unsubscribe or simply delete many. All have important information, but are redundant of other ministry emails, so I am getting more efficient in saving only what is needed. One day I'll have to go back and delete files from my overloaded hard drive, but not today.

One of my scriptures today is found in 2 Corinthians 3:18: "And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord's glory, are being transformed into His image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit." Paul had sent Titus to the church in Corinth, who had been swayed by false teachers seeking to undermine the calling and message of Paul. His letter was commending their change of heart. Here Paul is saying that although Moses had to put a veil over his face after he'd been in God's presence, Christ had removed the veil or separation between man and God. In the verse prior to this one Paul reminds them that where the Spirit is, there is freedom. The devotional spoke about surrendering to God totally, bringing our concerns and questions to Him, because He knows them already. He knows everything we say or do or think before we act on it or battle against it. He created us and knew us before the foundation of the earth. Psalm 139 is a beautiful reminder of His creative Spirit and His divine love for us.

 

I love this artwork called "You Knit Me Together in my Mother's Womb" based on Psalm 139. I believe that it is available for knitters also. In case you're wondering, I use Pinterest for my illustrations, as I have a board for my blogs and for other interests. I don't have a lot of time to spend looking at pins, but at least I know that I am not infringing on rights by using their pins, or they will let me know if I have unintentionally used one that someone else had previously used in error. It's my fail safe so to speak. 

My day ended with Little House on the Prairie, but I fell asleep in the middle of it. I gleaned the best of my day, thought about all the Lord had shared with me in private, and in the muddling through of my day. There is so much to learn! 

Day 292 Noise

 

10/19/2025

"The child learns to speak because his father speaks to him.

He learns the speech of his father. So we learn to speak to God because 

 God has spoken to us and speaks to us. By means of the speech of the 

Father in heaven His children learn to speak with Him.

Repeating God's own words after Him, we begin to pray to Him."

Dietrich Bonhoeffer

 

This has been an interesting Sunday, not exactly as I had planned it, but then my days seldom do go as planned. Nonetheless, they're enlightening in one way or another. I always learn something fresh and new, and I hope that I always do. 

Pastor Jack's verse of the day came from Philippians 1:9: "And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment." That went well with my personal thoughts of the day. So much is happening in our nation, Israel, and the world's response. There is, to quote a friend, "a cacophony of noise" all around us, in response to current situations. There's so much discord and chaos, no one wanting to take responsibility for actions or reactions, and there is no accountability in our leaders, all leaders, and not just in government. It's a time where many are afraid of what's happening, and no one is giving appropriate answers, in fact no one is talking about what is actually going on. But that's simple really, because the answer is sin and pride, and if you examine the words sin and pride, what do you find that each word has in common? Let me help...SIN and PRIDE. "I" is in the center of each word, and that is generally the cause of many disputes in our lives, even in leaders. I won't belabor the point, because I've said it all before. Sometimes saying less is saying more. 

God allows difficulties to come into our lives, and into the nation, in order to test our characters. I've spoken of this also. I like the expression "All that glitters is not gold." Many people are talking about many new innovations or strategies, and I much prefer to compare every "process" or "idea" by asking God what He  thinks about things. That may sound foolish or impractical to some, but as believers and followers of Christ, everything is judged by scripture, or it should be. If we took time to study and know the Word of God, we would have less cause for medical assistance with prescriptions for anxiety and depression. All He asks is our love and obedience, and He wants us to have relationship with Him where we turn to Him and ask for help. God is not a crutch, He is active, alive, and responding to prayers. Our response is to keep on asking Him our questions and wait on His response. 

"Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened." Matthew 7:7-8

Sometimes the response is not one we want, as having to endure suffering never is, but God does allow situations to see our response and the check our sincerity. As an illustration, think about gold as it goes through the process of refining. All the dross or impurities have to be purged from gold in order to purify it and increase its value. In biblical times the proper way to purify gold was to put it in a crucible and expose it to extreme heat in order for it to melt. When the dross or impurities rises to the surface, they are skimmed off. The process is repeated until one's appearance is reflected in the refined gold. The process of cleaning the dross from our lives happens in much the same way. In the midst of persecution, when we are suffering, God puts us through the fiery trials to see if we can withstand the pressure in the evil days. As humans, we tend to dislike any discomfort or hardship, but as God walks with us through the valleys and storms, we can witness first hand His comfort and love, and we are able to endure the hardest of circumstances, because we love God and desire to do things the right way, His way. Life in Christ is a process of growth that requires walking with Him daily, learning to be more like Him. We are made in His image, and when we accept Jesus as Savior and Lord, then the process of transformation into His character begins.

It's important how we handle all matters, as we have others watching our response. More importantly, God is watching, and he does not take kindly towards those who cause another to stumble, especially little children. Regardless of how busy Jesus was, he preferred children, and he prayed for them and blessed them and called attention to them. So much more should we do all we can to be the light of Christ in their lives. Sadly, many children are raised without a father, so they often go astray seeking attention and learning the wrong way to survive. Single mothers do the best they can do, and many have been successful at raising their children to become responsible and respectful adults. The price is high for these mothers, but they want a better life for their children. I can understand this desire, and it comes at a heavy price. Men are supposed to be the heads of the household, the ones who love and care for their wives, and they are to nurture and train their children to be obedient, loving and kind, and prepare them for life. Sadly our best is not good enough, and our well intentions are not received as such, and there is no pie in the sky. If I could gather all the foster children together, provide a home with well cooked meals, teach them the lessons they need to know, beginning with introducing them to a God who loves them unconditionally, and whose love never changes, that would be my dream. Being able to give them a proper life, one where love leads to kindness and a desire to pass the qualities on to the next generation and the next. But time is running out, and rather than a generation who treats others well, where laughter and love for one's neighbor is the accepted way to live, we see a troubled, self-seeking, defiant people. The examples they see are adults struggling to get by with leadership that is consumed with power and greed, who cannot live in civility with one another, disagreement the order of the day, while others suffer the consequences of their wrong decisions. But the younger generation can be and are being reached, because when a person is starving, they want to be filled. In the case of the present generations, they are seeking truth that is tangible, not merely voiced, without seeing substance or the fruit of those words being lived in life. They need to learn the right language, and this is where the church and ministries birthed from the church come into play. This is why Turning Point USA was so effective in turning out leaders, giving the desire, the confidence, and the resources to make a difference in this world, for the next generation. There are other ministries working to the same end also, making young disciples who will change the world into a God-fearing nation. We cannot remove God from our lives.

We must turn off the noise, the distractions, the double minded behavior of this present day, and be the men and women of faith we were created to be. Fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom according to scripture, the Word of God as our guide. Learning to sit quietly with the Lord, making this our daily habit, seeking Him early. Relationships begin and end with Him. We must do better if this world is going to exist, and we must train up the children in the way they should go, so that when they come of age they will not forget. It is never too late for change. 

 

Day 291 Just Thinking Again

 

10/18/2025

"The truth never hurts - unless it ought to."

 

Where do the years go? What happens to friendships that seem to be so lasting, and yet time and distance seem to wear away the closeness or maybe things weren't really as strong as we thought. Then again there are people we seldom see or even talk to, except on a spur of the moment decision when we pick up the phone out of the blue and try to connect. Someone picks up the call, and it's as if time has never passed by, and the closeness you once had is still just as strong if not stronger. What makes the difference?

As I'm reading through my journals I am seeing names of people who were once close to my family, who attended the same church, some we had over for dinner. In fact it seemed as if we had people over for dinner quite frequently before we made the big move to New Mexico so many years ago. I read the names of those who reached out to my husband in his greatest time of need, and whereas I remember a few names, I don't remember so many people who supported him at that time. It was a tragic incident that forever changed our lives, but it's not something that I feel inclined to share now. I'm just wondering where everyone went, and why I was left alone when I needed a friend.

Somehow I always blame myself when things go wrong or are not as they should be. People are very important to me, and I feel as if I do form friendships rather easily. I've always been particularly fond of those others don't like or who are considered to be strangely different or underdogs. Perhaps because I consider myself a misfit toy, but in the best sense of the word. No more rabbit holes, remember?! In writing I am beginning to wonder how much freedom I should take to expressing certain feelings. I like to think that I'm a kind person, but my son tells me I'm a bit of a cynic at times. Perhaps, in a mischievous way, but then I'm learning that it's not pleasing to be suspicious of other's feelings or remarks. I always felt that I was way too trusting, and that has not bode well for me. Isn't it fun to psychoanalyze yourself?

Today I was thinking about unintentional lies, like exaggerating things, making them bigger or seemingly more important than they actually are or were. I began to think of the motives of my heart all over again. The other day Pastor Jack was sharing about Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5:1-11 and how they lied to Peter about the sale of their land. The Lord struck them dead, because they intentionally lied, and they had no reason to do so. In Matthew 12:36 Jesus said: "But I tell you, on the day of judgment people will have to give an accounting for every careless or useless word they speak." That's a fearful thought, and I don't want to be that kind of a person. It makes me glad that I try to think before I speak. Many times I think people talk when they should be listening, or just be present. Silence can be the right response. Actually listening can open up clearer communication with God. The older I get the more I realize that I have so much to learn. I'm always examining motives of my heart, and I tend to be too hard on myself, I think. But in such situations, I'd much rather err on the side of caution.

"There are none so blind as those who will not see."

I've been reading the parables of Jesus in Matthew, and the disciples questioned Him about why He didn't speak more clearly. He said that some would understand, but others would not. I imagine that had to do with the openness or readiness of their hearts to receive, or again "motives." He told one group that all they wanted was food, or perhaps they came to be healed or to witness the miracles. I loved the way Jesus taught using real life situations in a simple, informal, yet specific way of teaching. He wasn't out to impress anyone, just show them how to live godly lifestyles and share the kingdom of heaven. His first words when He began His ministry were the same as John the Baptist's - repent for the Kingdom of God is at hand. Simple, direct, and on point. He said that we'd be known by our fruit, meaning character that develops from a well-lived life. That's what I want my life to be like - fruit bearing, the character of Christ who went around doing good. Psalms 17:15 is a good verse to consider when desiring the well-lived life: "As for me, I will see Your face in righteousness; I shall be satisfied when I awake in Your likeness." The moment I pass from this life to the next I'll pass into the arms of the Lord, beholding His beauty and in His likeness. This is the promise. To be like Him.

Many things pass through my head as I consider the things I've learned and am still learning. Each day brings new challenges, new information, and the word opens up the truth of God's kingdom if we only have eyes to see. Everything we need to know, every answer to every question can be found in the one book of life, the Bible provided to us by God. Everything we need for life and godliness is contained on the pages of His Word (2 Peter 1:3-8). I pray I learn my lessons well.

 

   

Day 290 Perspective

 

10/17/2025 

"Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. 

For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought,

but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with

groanings which cannot be uttered."

Romans 8:26

 

For the past couple of days Alex has been a little frazzled, and he seems to want a lot of attention for a semi-feral cat. When he wants a little extra attention he comes around more often. He knows this is his home, but he seems to travel around. I'm not certain where he spends his nights, because he has not warmed up to his mini dog house yet, even with a new bed of straw. He loves rolling in the dirt and pine needles, but even the blanket of pine needles and leaves didn't tempt him to try out his new digs. That cat! One thing's for certain, he is well fed, and he's quite a handsome fella, so I'm thinking he's made himself a home away from home somewhere close by. At least he knows this is home, and he's knows that I'm his human mama. Knowing he's safe is the most important thing to me, and I want him to feel loved. 

Since yesterday's rant I've accomplished a few things. I managed to straighten out the spare room that is actually my room. It's my sewing, painting, and crafting room at present, but it is badly in need of an overhaul, as there's not much room in this house. It's amazing how my parents raised three kids with only three small bedrooms and one bathroom. Before I moved back home, I gave away a lot of stuff that I had, thinking that my daddy would have the tools and yard items I needed, but I was mistaken. His were so old that I don't know how he continued to used them. Plus, he was fond of electrical tape to repair exposed wires. That is not exactly the safest practice, but my daddy seemed to fix things his way, and it worked. He was a meticulous mechanic, reminiscent of the Fonz in Happy Days. I don't think he'd be too pleased with the state of his work area right now or with his little hiding place downstairs in the basement where he spent many afternoons listening to his blue grass music. My son has taken over residence in the dungeon, so appearances have changed. It is due a good cleaning, but then, what isn't around here!

Living here has opened up memories, things that I forgot about, but things that were important. Going through my journals trying to find dates and places hasn't helped my frame of mind either. Somehow I wonder why I'm putting myself through all the stress for a story. I even wonder if my story is worth sharing, but then, it's not really my story, it's God's. Everything about my life has been because of His hand on my life, so how can I do it justice?! This is where prayer comes in, and I need a lot of prayer these days. I don't really ask much for myself, except for the Lord to guard my speech and my heart. I could use a bit of quiet and peace and some down time, but wars don't allow for that. Watchman stand their ground, and I'm determined to do that. I want to be faithful in fighting the good fight of faith for Israel. 

Today I watched a movie with my daughter, although she's in New Mexico, and I'm in Virginia. She watches on her end, and I enjoys things here. Then we may talk later on about the movie, things that were said. She seems to recognize the importance of words more these days. Or at least she understands my way of thinking about the way people act a certain way or react to things. I always look into people's eyes, and I see a bit more than a person may normally see. I think being alone for most of my life, working with people who had special needs, who needed a listening heart helped me become more compassionate and patient. My daughter is a very patient person, even though, like me, she has experienced a life of chronic health issues and pain. Difficult circumstances in life can make a person better or they can break a person's spirit, turning them into bitter individuals. Fortunately, neither of us succumbed to the latter. We are alike but different, and that makes each of us unique in the way we respond to situations.

Each day has its own set of challenges. I find that my reprieve from pain has lifted, and the trauma to my body over the years has been unkind and unforgiving. Of course falling from a tree didn't help the situation, but I've been warned to pad the ground the next time I wrestle a vine up in the trees. If the discomfort becomes unmanageable then I put on my boots and head outside. I have one more trim to the yard due, so that will help keep my focus elsewhere. I've learned to handle things that bother most people. I have managed to adapt to the noise in my head that has been my constant companion since 2016, so I can handle the other things that cramp my style. The key is counting my blessings. Each morning when I open my eyes and see the sunlight or the shadows or smell the fresh air or the smell of coffee, it's a good start. If I can swing my legs over the side of the bed, manage to sit up on the side and stand up...then it's a great day! Good morning, Lord! is my first response. It's a good day. And whereas not so good things may happen, it doesn't mean that a day is bad. No, be grateful for the day. It's another day to make life better for another person. Life is only a breath. We need to make the most of it and cherish the moments. 

  

Day 289 Rest for My Soul

  

10/16/2025

 "Then Jesus said, 'Come to me, all of you

who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will

give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you,

because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you

will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy 

to bear, and the burden I give you is light.'"

Matthew 11:28- 30

 

Over the past few weeks I've not been my generally upbeat self, and the hard part about it is that I don't know how to articulate my feelings. I feel drained of strength and of the ability to organize my thoughts. I realize that after a huge spiritual battle, we must stay on task and continue the watch. Now is not the time to pull an Elijah running from Jezebel act. And it's not really that, because I don't fear anything, except perhaps the dust in my house combined with Mia's shedding fur choking me if I don't get around to vacuuming and dusting soon. It seems as if I've not had too much free time to think about cleaning or a great many domestic things, but I've decided that something has to give. I guess I'll see how that goes.

I've been trying to set aside some time for exercise each night, a habit I have always tried to follow. It keeps me balanced mentally, and it helps with my health management. While I exercise I watch a favorite movie that doesn't require too much attention, as it's one that I've watched many, many times. I'm still watching Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien, as I've mentioned previously, but I'm on the last leg of the journey to regain control of Middle Earth, so I'll have to come up with another movie that has life lessons and offers spiritual wisdom and insight. I like movies that make me think.

I'm discovering that I am a very intense person, and that makes many people uneasy, but I take life very seriously. I enjoy having fun and laughter is my second language, but when it comes to muddling through life's messes, it's important to walk in wisdom. There's too much anger in the world, and too many people at odds. I'm watching things happen on the world stage that are appalling, and that do not belong in the same standing as the word "civilized" implies. More and more children and younger adults are becoming confused, embittered,  conflicted and even violent, acting out the compromises and vitriol learned from their parents or other adults who have been influential in their lives. This is a travesty that has robbed children of their childhood, youths of their curiosity, and young adults their dreams. This is mainly due to the fact that those responsible do not want to own up to or be accountable for the mess they've created. Something has to change.

The tricky part of writing my story is having to go back into all the memories I have stored up in volumes of journals I've kept over the years. I have regrets and losses, trauma and hurts that go deeply, and by reliving them in the telling, I often wonder if it's worth the sadness. Maybe that's why it's taken me so long to begin to write and stick to it. I've started and stopped so many times, writing a chapter here and there, and putting it aside. Only God knows where it will all end up. After all, He's the master mind behind the desire and the mission. There was a time when I had a hand in helping troubled teenagers make wiser decisions, and after all these years I wonder how they turned out. Maybe one day I'll know. My own children have had their share of hardships, many I never realized were happening. My faith keeps me strong, and my prayers for my family and for all the others continue to flow heaven ward, drifting up to the throne room of grace. 

In Lord of the Rings Frodo and Samwise Gamgee are discussing the futility of the mission they're on, wondering if anyone will ever remember. It's a difficult task being a small hobbit charged with the responsibility of saving humanity from evil. Sam makes a good point in his response to Frodo:

"It's like the great stories, Mr. Frodo, the ones that really mattered. Full of darkness and danger they were, and sometimes you didn't want to know the end because how could the end be happy? How could the world go back to the way it was when so much bad has happened? But in the end, it's only a passing thing this shadow, even darkness must pass. A new day will come, and when the sun shines, it'll shine out the clearer. I know now folks in those stories had lots of chances of turning back, only they didn't. They kept going because they were holding on to something. That there's some good in this world, Mr. Frodo, and it's worth fighting for.” 

Therefore, in the spirit of Sam and Frodo, I'm going to continue to battle for the people of this earth by continuing to stand and fight the good fight of faith. It's what we're all called to do in our own, individual assignments from God. Sam and Frodo make it to Mount Doom, destroy the ring, and Frodo even lost a finger doing it! But he persevered. So for now, I'm going to find rest for my soul trusting God for the battle that's His anyway, and I'm going to take some time just to sit and be still.  

Day 288 Generations

 

10/15/2025

"Therefore know that the LORD your God, 

He is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and 

mercy for a thousand generations with those who love Him 

and keep His commandments."

 Deuteronomy 7:9

 

Moses was chosen by God to lead the children of Israel from Egypt to the Promised Land in Canaan, and it was no small task. Because he did not obey God when He told Moses to speak to the rock for water,  because of his anger with the people, Moses struck the rock instead, so he was not allowed to enter into the Promised Land. In this passage, Moses had been reminding the people of God's faithfulness during the 40 years of wilderness travel, and he was instructing them in the law God provided on Mount Sinai. He reminded them also that they were God's chosen people, meant to be holy, set apart for the Lord's service. He called them "a special treasure above all the peoples on the face of the earth."

"The LORD did not set His love on you nor choose you because you were more in number than other people, for you were the least of all peoples; but because the LORD loves you, and because He would keep the oath which He swore to your fathers, the LORD has brought you out with a mighty had, and redeemed you from the house of bondage, from the hand of Pharaoh king of Egypt." (Deuteronomy 7:7-8)

The people Moses was addressing were a whole new generation, born during the 40 years of wilderness wandering, with the exception of Caleb and Joshua, who did not rebel against the Lord. In verse 9 of Deuteronomy 7, as noted above, Moses was sharing the fact that God's covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob was binding, and it extended to a thousand generations of those who love God and who keep His laws. As believers in Christ, this word applies to us as well, and our generations will be saved also, if they are obedient to the Word of the Lord. How many people realize that this Word applies to them today? How many realize that as believers in Jesus Christ, we have been grafted into the Vine, Jesus Christ? And some refuse to believe or accept this wonderful gift. A free gift, and in return we receive eternal life. That's the best deal ever!

 

Day 287 Hmmmm

 

10/14/2025 

 "Each of us has a soul, but we forget to value it.

We don't remember that we are creatures made in the

image of God. We don't understand the great 

secrets hidden inside of us."

Teresa of Avila 

 

Reading has always been a favorite pastime for me, but sometimes I get so busy reading scriptures that I don't leave time to read anything else. Not that that is bad, because it is the best and only way to grow in our personal relationship with God so that we can teach others and lead them to salvation. But, it is  edifying to the soul to find nourishment in other works that give God glory. As I've shared before, I always ached to go to the foreign mission field and serve God as a missionary. But it seems as if, try as I might, the doors of my dreams became closed for me, whether it be through discouragement, timing, or favor of God. I still have the same ache and emptiness within me that screams for a chance to serve in the mission field. I feel that I'm too old now, as most ministries prefer younger couples. Since being home, I have investigated possibilities in the old ministries in which I participated, but those I knew have passed on to glory and are in the presence of God right now. We should never look back, and God assures me, we are never too old to serve.

The book I picked up a few days was Tortured for Christ by Richard Wurmbrand, a Pastor who spent 14 years in prison in Communist Romania, for sharing Christ. While imprisoned he continued to evangelize to his persecutors in spite of the torture he suffered. He wrote "I love the Communists with all of my heart." He also wrote that "Communists can kill Christians, but they cannot kill their love toward even those who killed them." What an amazing testimony of the transforming power of the love of Christ for another. He was betrayed by his friend, and even though he endured such trials in prison, he easily forgave his friend saying "we all make mistakes." The Bible speaks about the power of forgiveness, and it has been so clearly presented in Wurmbrand's life as in the lives of Corrie ten Boom and countless others. 

So far I have not been tortured for sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ, but I have been persecuted and warned not to share books with a certain family member, who had been reading the book of Revelation and asked me if I had a book she could read. I don't know why she became anxious after reading the Bible study guide, but she did, and I got blamed and verbally blasted. I've been betrayed by a Christian pastor, and I often wondered what I would do if I saw this man at the grocery store or elsewhere. Time went by, but when it did happen, I held no negative feelings towards him. The same is true of the first example. Neither of these cases compare to what Richard Wurmbrand experienced, but I can understand the power of forgiveness regardless of the situation. It sets us free, and even if they are never aware of it, it sets them free spiritually speaking.

Our lives are very different today than when I was growing up, but I always marveled at the missionary life, and I always wanted to be a part of sharing life, the gift of eternal life, with others. I'm sure that I have mentioned, many times probably, about my habit of reading stories about missionaries when I was a young child. I would spend a lot of time in the church library reading, imagining, and dreaming of some grand adventure. As a child, everything is an adventure, until reality hits home, as it often does. Regardless, as I've grown into the old lady that I now am, my heart still cries for Africa, and my heart grieves for the children whose innocence is stolen whether through abuse, neglect, war, or human trafficking. So many horrible things, unconscionable atrocities, sins of man upon innocent, trusting, vulnerable children. I don't understand it, and often I have asked God why it has to be this way, but I try to leave it in His all-knowing hands, but it hurts.

As Teresa of Avila says we all have a soul, and we are made in the image of God. We need to protect, value, and grow our relationship with Him. Again, I mention the secret place. He has so much that He longs to share with us as we sit quietly, reverently, in awe of His majesty, blessed by His appearing. Share your dreams with Him, and seek Him for the plans He has for you - plans to give you a future and a hope. I may never see the mission fields in another country, but I can hold them in my heart in prayer, and I can read about their lives in my monthly notices. I always pray, and I always will. My mission field for now is here with my family and the people He places in my path. Miracles in the making await the right response for a longing, empty heart. A soul who needs to know its value. We need only to ask, and Father will show us His desires. May we fill our hearts with gratitude for His faithfulness and blessings too many to count. But if you did count them, what would we say? How could we ever thank Him enough for breath, forgiveness, salvation, transformation, His mercy, His love, and His Amazing Grace. Start with honoring  Him for the first fruit of the air you breathe with each new morning.

Day 286 Seek Peace and Pursue It

  

10/13/2025

 "Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you;

not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart

be troubled, neither let it be afraid."

John 14:27

 

It's been a very long night without sleep as we watched, waited, and prayed for the agreed upon release of the hostages. Israel's time zone is seven hours ahead of eastern time, so staying up was difficult. At one point I closed my eyes after the initial release of  four hostages, but I kept the news on to hear. There was a lot of noise from shouts of joy and rejoicing. The families of the hostages were waiting in Hostage Square in Tel Aviv for the release and for the arrival of President Donald J. Trump who flew in to address the families and to speak at the Knesset. His speech was well received by all present, as were the speeches by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and Opposition Leader Yair Lapid. Speaker Amir Ohana of the Knesset presided and led the cheers of victory. When he identified Ambassador Mike Huckabee, he called him a "Rock Star," and he truly is a wonderful ambassador for Israel. President Trump was lauded for his service in establishing the 20 point peace treaty with the Middle East which included the immediate release of all of the hostages. 

Later in the day President Trump flew to Egypt where he met with a delegation of leaders of the Middle East who assisted with this treaty and for signing of the Peace Treaty. Those involved were: United States President Donald J. Trump and negotiators from Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey. It was a historic moment, and the world rejoiced for a victory they never thought would happen. We pray for peace always, but we also know as Christians that the prophetic time clock is ticking rather quickly, as demonstrations of antisemitism are still blatant and spreading. Hatred does not die easily, and this hatred has been going on since the beginning of time. 

As Christians we always want to rejoice, in fact, we are commanded to rejoice always:

"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 that surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."  

Our Global Prayer Call was a time of praise and thanksgiving for God's mighty work in bringing this miracle to pass. Our time of worship included a song by Vesna Buehler from Psalm 126, a song of ascents.

"When the LORD brought back the captivity of Zion, we were like those who dream. Then our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongue with singing. Then they said among the nations, 'The LORD has done great things for them.' The LORD has done great things for us, and we are glad. Bring back our captivity, O LORD, as the streams in the South. Those who sow in tears shall reap in joy. He who continually goes forth weeping, bearing seed for sowing, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him." 

Even in the midst of great joy, as intercessors, we remain steadfast as watchmen on the wall. Our faith is in God, not man, although God certainly has used President Trump as He did Cyrus of Persia so long ago. In fact Israel is calling President Trump their modern day Cyrus, and I believe the anointing is the same. We were reminded today that the peace treaty had 20 points that it turns out were negotiable, as there were changes allowed. But in scripture, in Zechariah 8, the Lord lists 10 points, all of which are not negotiable. 

Verse 2: "Thus says the LORD of hosts: 'I am jealous for Zion with great jealousy; with great fervor I am jealous for her.'" 

Verse 3: "Thus says the LORD: 'I will return to Zion and dwell in the midst of Jerusalem. Jerusalem shall be called the City of Truth, the Mountain of the LORD of hosts, the Holy Mountain.'"

Verse 4 & 5: "Thus says the LORD of hosts: 'Old men and old women shall again sit in the streets of Jerusalem, each one with his staff in his hand because of great age. The streets of the city shall be full of boys and girls playing in its streets.'"  

Verse 6: "Thus says the LORD of hosts: 'If it is marvelous in the eyes of the remnant of this people in these days, will it also be marvelous in My eyes?' Says the LORD of hosts."

Verse 7&8: "Thus says the LORD of hosts: 'Behold I will save My people from the land of the east and from the land of the west; I will bring them back, and they shall dwell in the midst of Jerusalem. They shall be My people and I will be their God, in truth and righteousness.'" 

Verse 9: "Thus says the LORD of hosts: 'Let your hands be strong, you who have been hearing in these days these words by the mouth of the prophets....' Verse 11: 'But now I will not treat the remnant of this people as in the former days,' says the LORD of hosts."

Verse 14&15: "For thus says the LORD of hosts: 'Just as I determined to punish you when your fathers provoked Me to wrath,' says the LORD of hosts, 'and I would not relent, so again in these days I am determined to do good to Jerusalem and to the house of Judah.'" 

Verse 19: "Thus says the LORD of hosts: 'The fast of the fourth month, the fast of the fifth, the fast of the seventh, and the fast of the tenth, shall be joy and gladness and cheerful feasts for the house of Judah. Therefore love truth and peace.'" 

Verses 20-22: "Thus says the LORD of hosts: 'Peoples shall yet come, inhabitants of one city shall go to another, saying, "Let us continue to go and pray before the LORD, and seek the LORD of hosts. I myself will go also." Yes, many peoples and strong nations shall come to seek the LORD of hosts in Jerusalem, and to pray before the LORD.'"

Verse 23: "Thus says the LORD of hosts: 'In those days ten men from every language of the nations shall grasp the sleeve of a Jewish man, saying, "Let us go with you, for we have heard that God is with you."'" 

Ten "Thus says the LORD of hosts" all non-negotiable, and many are happening now. Let us continue to watch and see what great things the LORD of hosts will do! 

Day 285 In Remembering - Rejoice!

 

 10/12/2025

 "This is the day the LORD has made;

we will rejoice and be glad in it."

Psalm 118:24

 

Sometimes God really wants to get my attention, so He confirms verses to me - at least three times on the same day, at some point in each day. This time it was within minutes that He had this verse spoken to me from two pastors' messages', my devotional, and from reminding me of the prayer I speak when I wake up in the morning. It jump starts my day! This Psalm is one that is read at Passover as Jesus our Messiah is remembered and welcomed to the celebration. It is also read at other festivals of the Lord such as Hanukkah, Shavuot, and Sukkot as a song of praise and thanksgiving. I repeat this verse each morning before I get out of bed, because I want to remember that regardless of what happens during the day, I will still choose to rejoice in my Lord and be grateful for a new day to serve Him.

The day has been charged spiritually with expectation and hope in the air as we await the release of the hostages from Gaza who have been held by Hamas for 737 days. With each step made in preparation, it appears that this time the treaty will not be violated, and our prayers of 737 days will be answered. So we wait, and we pray, and, yes, we rejoice and give praise.

As the day progressed, once again the enemy tried to adjust my day and my attitude, but, thankfully, he did not succeed. On my prayer calendars for today these two quotations were given:

"Pray and never faint, is the motto Christ gives us for praying. It is the test of our faith, and the more severe the trial and the longer the waiting, the more glorious the results." E.M. Bounds

"We need to learn to know Him so well that we feel safe when we have left our difficulties with Him. To know Jesus in that way is a prerequisite of all true prayer." O. Hallesby    

Time spent in the secret place of the most high is a time of preparation, needed more at other times. It's a place where we must spend time each day to grow in His grace and glory, bask in His presence, and listen to His voice as He reminds us of the things we should know, as He leads and guides, and as He ever so gently prunes and refines us. 

"He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, 'He is my refuge and my fortress; my God, in Him will I trust.'" Psalm 91:1-2

"You are my hiding place; You shall preserve me from trouble; You shall surround me with songs of deliverance." Psalm 32:7

As I'm writing these words the familiar chords of the old hymn Great is Thy Faithfulness, is softly playing. During these times of waiting, rejoicing, remembering His faithfulness to us, I think of Daniel in the Lion's den; his friends Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the fiery pit; and the prophets and obedient kings of Judah. I always thank Him for my family and the incredible miracles He's brought. Although things may appear difficult right now in my family, and certainly not what I would have expected or wanted, still I have no doubts that He will fulfill His promises to me, even if I don't live to see them. I refuse to fall into doubt and questioning when times become impossible at times. People fail, but God never. 

"What tore the veil, what empties hell, what never fails, only the blood. What testifies, what prophesies, death to life, only the blood." (Jesus Image)

I am exceedingly grateful to live in a country that stands with Israel as her number one ally and friend, a nation who understands the significance of Israel in our Judeo-Christian faith, the faith on which our country was founded. Our President Donald J. Trump is Israel's closest friend, and he stood against the formation of a Palestinian state and against the United Nations who have violated what the organization was established to do - "maintain international peace and security, protect human rights, foster friendly relations between nations and promote solutions to global problems." I am grateful that President Trump is not afraid to stand up for truth, go against the grain, and do the right thing especially when it is not the popular or "politically correct" thing to do. I'm so thankful to God that He has placed a man in the highest seat of government who obeys His word found in Micah 6:8: "He has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?" He's not afraid to use the words "IN GOD WE TRUST." And He is not afraid to say that Jesus Christ is our Savior and LORD! 

The day is drawing close to a close for me, but it's early in the day for Israel, as they wait in Hostage Square in Tel Aviv. I'll be up all night waiting with them. Great is Thy Faithfulness, O Lord! 

Day 284 Vigilant

 

10/11/2025

 "Blessed be the LORD, because He heard the voice of my

supplications! The LORD is my strength and my shield;

my heart trusted in Him, and I am helped; therefore, 

my heart greatly rejoices, and with my song 

I will praise Him."

Psalm 28: 6-7

 

Sabbath is a day of refreshing, peace, and a time to relax and enjoy family. It is a day of rejoicing as we join with fellow believers in Christ, worshiping and studying the Word of the Lord. Shabbat begins for me on Friday evening, as it is observed in Israel, and I attend Shabbat in the Home with the Wilbur family online. It's short, but impactful, and I love the Wilburs! I also spend time with Marty and Jennie Goetz for an hour of worship and prayer. Marty Goetz and Paul Wilbur have been two of my favorite Messianic Jewish musicians, defenders of Israel, for many, many years. I can't remember when I began to worship with Jacob's Tent, perhaps eight years or more, but I love joining with them on Saturday morning as we open the word of God together, studying Torah - the first five books of the Bible written by Moses - as well as the entire Word of God - Genesis to Revelations. I also attend local and online Sunday services, as the Bible says in Hebrews 10:25: "Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching." I was raised in church, and my mother made sure that we were in church whenever the doors were open. Church attendance is part of the life that I choose to live, because I love God, and I want to grow in the knowledge of His will.

There are those who feel that I am somehow dishonoring God by attending both a Christian and a Jewish church, but obviously they do not know the word of God, nor do they know the character of Jesus. Jacob's Tent is a congregation of believers in Christ Jesus, from all denominational backgrounds, including Jewish born believers, who feel called together by the power of Holy Spirit to serve the Lord in one fellowship. They use the Hebrew calendar, follow the reading of Torah, as well as the complete Bible, they observe the feasts of the Lord, and by their own preference they obey the food laws, just as Messianic Jewish believers - Jews who have accepted Jesus Christ as Messiah. We are brothers and sisters in Christ, children of God as the scripture says in John 1:12: "But to all who received Him (Jesus Christ), He gave the right to become children of God."   

During the day, the enemy began rearing his ugly head. Actually, situations have been developing this week almost daily, as the persecution and warfare increases against me just for being a Christian and loving Israel. By Friday it amped up into almost a full scale war in the heavens, but I didn't have to worry about that, because God is all over it. He has been reminding me of things He has called me to do, that I have been obedient to do, but more is needed. Following Him is my life. He alone is my First and Only Love. 

The Feast of Tabernacles ends tomorrow, and although I could not attend in person, I did sign up for the online participation. I am a bit behind due to other difficulties I'm facing, but I'll catch up. I have each morning's prayer with the International Christian Jewish Embassy Jerusalem to look forward to. The enemy is very cunning and deceitful, and he can present himself as an angel of light. I am so thankful that God taught me that truth a long time ago, so I can be vigilant in removing the threat by "casting down imaginations." When the enemy tries to come in and accuse and seek to manipulate our lives, we give a scriptural response, just as Jesus did when He countered satan with the words "It is written...!" 

There is much deception in the world, and the chaos and distractions - and there are many, and they are extreme - attempt to draw our focus away from what God holds most precious. We are told to pray for our leaders and those in authority so we may live peaceful lives (1 Timothy 2:1-2). We are commanded in scripture to pray for the peace of Jerusalem in Psalm 122:6-9. As Gentile believers in Christ we are instructed by the Apostle Paul, anointed of God, in Romans, chapters 9 - 11 regarding our place, our purpose regarding Israel. John 4:22 reminds us that salvation comes from the Jews. Romans 1:16 "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ, as it is the power of God that offers salvation to everyone who has faith - to Jews first, and then to Gentiles, as well." And in Romans 11:11 Paul instructs: "I say then, have they stumbled that they should fall? Certainly not! But through their fall, to provoke them to jealousy , salvation has come to the Gentiles."

I do not have to prove myself or defend my stand with Israel to anyone, I only have to walk in the truth of His word, and hold fast to my profession: "Dear friends, I have been eagerly planning to write to you about the salvation we all share. But now I find that I must write about something else, urging you to defend the faith that God has entrusted once for all time to His holy people." 

More and more I am witnessing pride in believers who feel that they have more to offer than others. Again I reference Romans 12:1-5 regarding how we are to live our lives and serving our God in unity with the brethren:

"I beseech you therefore brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith. For as we have many members in one body; but all the members do not have the same function, so we, being many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another."  

I am also seeing many fall and follow wrong paths. Romans 1:22-23 speaks to those who deviate from truth: "Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools and exchanged the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man."

I have been accused of being involved in a cult because of my fellowship with Jacob's Tent and because of my involvement with the embassy in Jerusalem, but I recognize the enemy's plots in my life. When I accepted God's call to be an intercessor for Israel, increasing focus over the last two years, becoming a watchman on the wall, I felt so unworthy. Who am I to stand before a holy God on behalf of His chosen people? But I have prayed for God to break my heart for what breaks His, and He has answered. And I will continue to do so.

Whenever my children ask me a question about anything, especially when they share the hatred and  ridiculous beliefs and evil words of this world, I have one response, and that is with what I close this post today: 

"Study to show yourselves approved unto God, a workman who needs not be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." 2 Timothy 2:15

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

Day 283 When God Says "Yes"

 

10/10/2025

"Your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying

'This is the way, walk in it,'

whenever you turn to the right hand or

whenever you turn to the left."

Isaiah 30:21

 

I rejoice in the faithfulness of our LORD, who is faithful to watch over His Word to perform it, in just the right timing, too! I woke up early, early this morning, as I was awakened about events happening in Israel at that very moment. With all the excitement of the planned release of the hostages after over two years in captivity, we cannot allow ourselves to slack from standing with Israel. The call as a watchman continues until we graduate to the next level and meet our Savior face to face. We are reminded daily that once the hostages are home, a long period of rehabilitation and restoration from all the trauma faced in the tunnels, in addition to coming face to face with the horrendous reality of the aftermath of that day of horrors, will need to happen. Many who been in captivity have not been told about their families, nor have the family members been given the truth about their loved ones who have been in the dark, chained, tortured, starved, and persecuted with psychological warfare, living in filthy, unsanitary places and not allowed to bathe. From time to time some family members received proof of life, but again, it was primarily for the purpose of further tormenting them. For those who are returned deceased the rigorous process of identification of the bodies must take place, as Hamas has returned unknown remains before. These two years have literally been hell on earth, or what one imagines as hell, for all concerned. Although I have never met any of these dear, precious people, I have grown to love them, as I pray for them daily, posting their photos on Facebook, both those reported as living and those presumed dead. When one is released, I weep in joy and thanksgiving, and when one is found dead, I grieve and mourn with my family in Israel. I have always prayed for Israel and love the people, but God has given me a supernatural love, and I pray most of all for their salvation, that they will know that Messiah has already come, is returning soon, and that He loves them. He is the deliverer, the only cure! When I see the people at the wall on the mount, I so want to gather them in my arms and share with them about Jesus, and how God wants so much more for them. May their eyes be opened and enlightened to the hope for which God has called them. He is the only way, and He is the only one who can heal and set the spiritual captive free.

This morning as I began to pick up where God had me leave off last week, so I could be built up and reminded of what I needed for the day, I found myself once more where God has had me return so often, where the story begins for me, the Sermon on the Mount. Before that, however, He reminded me of the enemy's attempts to dissuade me from the path He set before me. It's so easy to become distracted with so much happening, and the way the world is poorly handling "life" in general. There is so much deception, so many lies and tricks, while the enemy is gearing up for another full scale assault on the nations. It has been disheartening to watch and personally witness how many are listening to the lies, or those who are falling away from the faith, or those who are sitting on a fence with their legs dangling on both sides, afraid to commit. The only commitment that needs to be made is one to the Almighty God in whom we serve. In Israel President Trump is being exalted, while their own Prime Minister is being hung out to dry! I saw a post on the Jewish hostage family page saying "In Trump We Trust." I was appalled, as it is only God in whom we place our trust, no mortal man. Yet many people exalt man. No! God alone receives the glory. Regarding Prime Minister Netanyahu, this man has been attacked in every conceivable way by every nation. He deserves better as an emissary from God. God put the Prime Minister and President Trump in these positions, at this time, for His purposes, and it is high time people wake up and recognize that God has His hand on our countries, and He will not be mocked! We should be on our faces before a Holy God asking forgiveness and thanking Him for His favor, mercy, and grace.

Three times today the Lord pointed me to the books of Ezra and Nehemiah from three different sources. He always confirms to me in threes. The first was on the prayer call with Pastor Jack who taught from a scripture found in Nehemiah 4:17-18: 

"Those who built on the wall, and those who carried burdens, loaded themselves so that with one hand they worked at construction, and with the other held a weapon. Every one of the builders had his sword girded at his side as he built. And the one who sounded the trumpet was beside me." 

The Jews were held captive in Babylon for seventy years as according to 2 Chronicles 36:21 and Jeremiah 29:10. In the first year of Cyrus, king of Persia's reign, God stirred his heart, so that he would show favor to Israel and send His people back to Jerusalem to build the temple, the house of God. So a proclamation was made throughout his kingdom:

"Thus says Cyrus king of Persia: All the kingdoms of the earth the LORD God of heaven has given me. And He has commanded me to build Him a house at Jerusalem which is in Judah. Who is among you of all His people? May his God be with him, and let him go up to Jerusalem which is in Judah, and build the house of the LORD God of Israel (He is God), which is in Jerusalem. And whoever is left in any place where he dwells, let the men of his place help him with silver and gold, with goods and livestock, besides the freewill offerings for the house of God which is in Jerusalem." 

The heads of the fathers' houses of Judah and Benjamin, along with the priests and the Levites, and others in captivity who wanted to return home to Judah gathered together and returned home with the aid and assistance of King Cyrus. Among those returning was Zerubbabel who was put in charge of rebuilding the altar of the God of Israel to offer burnt sacrifices. Jeshua and others of the priests assisted in the rebuilding the altar and in the sacrifices and praises. The actual work on the temple did not begin until the second year, and naturally, they were met with opposition from the people who had been left in the land when the others were exiled. They included some indigenous, poor people who had been left behind to keep the land and some people the enemy sent over to occupy the land. When the leaders of this group asked to assist in the rebuilding, they were denied, because they were not part of the Jewish people. So, they looked for ways to hinder the work. Every attempt was foiled, because of the perseverance of Zerubbabel.

Ezra was among those who returned from exile during the reign of Artaxerxes king of Persia, who was sent to teach statutes and ordinances in Israel and to see about the spiritual restoration of the people. Those born in exile had never been taught the ordinances of God, so as a scribe in the Law of Moses he was given this task. When he arrived he found that the people of Israel and the priests and Levites had intermarried with heathen nations and had children. This was not allowed, so Ezra had to deal with this abomination in God's sight, and the pagan wives had to be sent away.

Nehemiah was a cup bearer to the King Artaxerxes, and when he received word from Jerusalem that the temple had been restored, but that the walls were not repaired and gates were burned, he was grieved. So he sought the king's favor to return to Jerusalem to oversee the rebuilding of the walls. God saw to it that not only did the king give Nehemiah permission to return, but he provided for every expense, just as He did before. Naturally, as with Ezra, Nehemiah was met with opposition, delays, resistance, and threats. They resisted every effort to impede the work, and the walls were rebuilt, as noted in the above scripture from Nehemiah 4:17-18, with a trowel in one hand and a weapon in the other.

These men withstood exile, returned to face opposition and every conniving spirit who tried to stop the work of the Lord. These men were not warriors, they were priests, Levites, ordinary men who would not back down, not give up, and they fought back in obedience to complete what the Lord had told them to do. In considering the present day situation in Israel, war on every front, the horrific loss of innocent lives and military, and the fight to exist in the land given to them by God, the IDF and the leaders have stood against every onslaught of the enemy, and have resisted every attempt to destroy them. Over the two years, we have witnessed miracles, divine interventions, and stamina beyond human understanding. They have been fearless, dauntless, resilient, and they have not wavered. Led by Prime Minister Netanyahu, who himself has faced so many battles, lies, attempts on his life, and the administration and military cabinet set in place, Israel has remained strong, aided by the strong support of America. God watches over His people.

Now as we wait for the hostages to come home. A plan has been put in place, hands have been shaken, words have been spoken, and Israel is following her part of the deal. There is hopeful expectation in the air, fear, concern, a mixture of feelings, families holding their breath. Only God knows, but our eyes are on Him alone. 

Whenever we choose to walk with the Lord, we will be putting our lives on the line, so we must understand that surrender means giving our lives unreservedly to the cause of Christ. I have been attacked from every angle for choosing to stand with Israel and for honoring the call of God on my life. The enemy would try to make us doubt God, as he did in the Garden with Eve. So he plays on every angle in our lives to distract us, to get our focus off of the primary task. Right now in America we see chaos everywhere, homes being torn apart, sin in the camp, all kinds of folly, but we must remain vigilant and at our posts, our eye on the prize, our gaze on the Captain of the Armies of Heaven, Jesus Christ, King of kings, and LORD of lords. It's all about Him and the furthering of God's Kingdom. 

Whatever you're going through, listen for the pause of heaven, listen for the still small voice. Listen closely for God's yes. These are reminders that we are hearing His voice. Stay focused!  

Day 282 The Time Given

 

10/9/2025 

"Selective obedience isn't obedience at all; 

it's only convenience."

 

It's not easy to have to backtrack when I'm writing. I always think I write good notes, but when I look at them in light of the next ones to be finalized, I find myself lost! Since my daily reading of the Bible has been altered somewhat this year, not as routine, it doesn't even help to go back over what I have been reading. In short, I've been all over the place, because God lead me in a different direction. The fun thing is that when He does this, that is, when He wants me to "see" something, He always confirms it in another way or through another person or message. I'm learning not to be surprised, just in awe of His ways that are definitely higher than mine.

Last night at the Harvest Ministries group study I host we discussed the subject of wrestling with God, using the life of Jacob as our example. As we study his life, we see that Jacob, whose name meant "supplanter" or "deceitful" or "one who grabs by the heel," contended with his brother, Esau, in the womb. Jacob's story begins in Genesis 25 when Abraham's son Isaac marries Rebekah who couldn't bear children. So Isaac prayed to God, and she conceived twins. When they were contending within her womb, she became greatly troubled, because this wasn't normal, so she inquired of the LORD, the scripture says. 

"But the children struggled together within her; and she said, 'If all is well, why am I like this?' So she went to inquire of the LORD. And the LORD said to her: 'Two nations are in your womb, two peoples shall be separated from your body; one people shall be stronger than the other, and the older shall serve the younger.'"

As the story continues and the boys grow up to manhood, there remains contention, as Esau, the older son, becomes the skillful hunter who loves the outdoors, and he is a favorite of his father, Isaac. Jacob is described as a mild man who dwells in tents, and he was favored by his mother, Rebekah. His story is familiar about how he stole Esau's birthright for a cup of stew (Genesis 25:29-34), and then he stole the blessing of the first born by pretending to be Esau, taking advantage of his blind father, the deception aided by his mother (Genesis 27). Jacob learns that Esau wants to kill him, so Rebekah instructs him to run to her brother, Laban's home for protection and to marry one of Laban's daughters (Genesis 28). Esau rebels against the family and marries one of Ishmael's daughters. Jacob's time in Padan Aram leads to many years of service and trickery at the hand of Laban who turns out to be a bigger schemer and manipulator than Jacob. But over the course of all these years as relayed in Genesis 28 - 32, Jacob becomes transformed, and his name is changed from Jacob to Israel which means "Prince with God."

"Then Jacob was left alone; and a Man wrestled with him until the breaking of day. Now when He saw that He did not prevail against him, He touched the socket of his hip; and the socket of Jacob's hip was out of joint as He wrestled with Him. And He said, 'Let Me go, for the day breaks.' But he (Jacob) said, 'I will not let You go unless You bless me!' So He said to him, 'What is your name?' He said 'Jacob.' And He said, 'Your name shall no longer be called Jacob, but Israel; for you have struggled with God and with men, and have prevailed.'" (Genesis 32:24-28).

Jacob is reunited with his brother Esau, but the rift never really is mended, and in fact as prophesied, the two nations continue to contend with one another up to this day. Jacob's name becomes Israel, and the twelve tribes of Israel are his offspring. It's a fascinating story, but the history of the nation of Israel is written throughout these pages of scripture. So it's not "just" a story, it's truth, and if studied in the context of scripture as it should be taught, we would have less "wrestling" going on in the nation today, as antisemitism continues to grow and sweep around the world in vicious and wicked condescension and vile hatred. 

I never felt as if I had wrestled with God, and I certainly never wanted to go against Him, yet I did. The obvious wrestling that resulted in my thirty-five years in the wilderness, on the back burner, so to speak, turned out to be my best training ground, and it prepared me for where I am today, and I know it has prepared me for what is ahead. If my life were not surrendered to Christ and my dependence solely on Him, I don't think I would have the strength to get up in the morning. But He makes it worth everything! I have survived the floods and the fires, the pruning, the pressing, and the sifting, and I've been alone most of the time. But I am grateful to God for the transformation He has done in my life. 

Being a great fan of J.R.R. Tolkien's "Lord of the Rings" series, I often watch the movies, as well as "The Hobbit" series, when I want to relax, smiles, and glean a little wisdom. Frodo Baggins, Bilbo's cousin and little charge, is tasked with the disposal of the ring of power into the fires of Mount Doom. It's a journey no one wants to undertake, so the task is left to Frodo, along with companions who go with him, the fellowship of the ring, they are called. The wizard, Gandalf, is a wise and trusted friend to whom young Frodo admires and respects. Along the journey, when the success of the undertaking is threatened, Frodo says to Gandalf:  "I wish the Ring had never come to me. I wish none of this had happened."  Gandalf responds by saying: "So do all who live to see such times, but that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given to us." 

Many a tangled web of deceit has been woven in our times, and there has always been those who persist in choosing to wrestle with God and contend with man. Evil is abounding in our times, just as it was in the story of Frodo and the ring, and yet Frodo does overcome in the end, and evil is opposed. Galadriel, the Lady of the Woods, an elf, tells Frodo "Even the smallest person can change the course of the future." And her words certainly prove true in this tale of good versus evil. May we find hope in that as we walk out our destiny, deciding what to do with the time that is given to each of us. 

Day 281 Mighty Warrior

 

10/8/2025 

"Blood of Christ wash over me."

 

 For days now as I wake up, as I lay my head to rest, as I go about my day I hear the words of the song "We need the blood, we plead the blood," washing over me. When I become distracted or something disturbs me, or if the enemy begins to cause my thoughts to wander back in time, I hear the words of this song "Blood of Christ" by Jesus Image repeated over and over again. The Word of God tells us in Ephesians 6:12 "For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places." I having been witnessing the hoards of hell advancing in greater numbers daily, attempting to wreak havoc, cause divisions, create uproars nation to nation, coast to coast, covering the globe. This is why we are told to put on the whole armor of God, so we will be able to stand up against the enemy, not in our strength, but by the power of Almighty Spirit of God that works within us. 

When darkness clouds your vision and uneasiness threatens to shake your peace, and it will more and more as we see the days advancing, stand strong and take heart, because God will fight for us. When we surrender our lives to Christ, when we truly make Him Lord, not just speaking the words, but actively doing the work of the Kingdom, then He promises to fight for us! Our greatest battle zone is our minds, so let me remind you of 2 Corinthians 10:3-6:

"For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments (imaginations), and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ, and being ready to punish all disobedience when your obedience is fulfilled." 

When King Saul was fighting the Philistine armies, he and his men became intimidated by their champion warrior, Goliath, a giant in the land, who daily came out to taunt the army and cause them to fear and pull back. Along comes young David, the shepherd boy, bringing food to his brothers who were in the army of Saul, and to check up on the progress of the war so that he might inform Jesse, his father. When David hears Goliath boasting and railing, David became furious and wanted to know who dares to defy the God of Israel. So, David ends up volunteering to fight this mammoth of a man, this bully. In 1 Samuel 17 we read the story of David making a bold stand for His God:

"So Saul clothed David with his armor, and he put a bronze helmet on his head; he also clothed him with a coat of mail. David fastened his sword to his armor and tried to walk, for he had not tested them. And David said to Saul, 'I cannot walk with these, for I have not tested them.' So David took them off. Then he took his staff in his hand; and he chose for himself five smooth stones from the brook, and put them in a shepherd's bag, in a pouch which he had, and his sling was in his hand. And he drew near to the Philistine." (verses 38-40)

The verses that follow describe Goliath's response to a ruddy-faced, skinny teenager sent out onto the field of battle to oppose him, a mighty warrior! We pick up the story by hearing David's response to this outcry:

"Then David said to the Philistine, 'You come to me with a sword, with a spear, and with a javelin. But I come to you in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. This day the LORD will deliver you into my hand, and I will strike you and take your head from you. And this day I will give the carcasses of the camp of the Philistines to the birds of the air and the wild beasts of the earth, that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel.'" (verses 45-46)

Bold words, not received well by Goliath as he tightens his grip on his javelin, ready to hurl it at this wimpy opponent, or so he thought. He snarls his lip and he readies his stance, and...well you know the end of this story and the beginning of the next. God used David in all his human frailty to become the mighty Captain of Saul's army and eventually anointed as King of all of Israel. When Paul the Apostle was speaking of his thorn in the flesh, his human weakness, in 2 Corinthians 12:7-10, he realized that God's ways are profoundly different from our way of thinking. Paul realized that in his carnal nature he may succumb to pride. After all he was a self-proclaiming Pharisee of the Pharisees (Acts 23:6), although his actions as a follower of Christ did not demonstrate his carnality. He was a new creation through the blood of Jesus Christ. He shared so we would have an example of suffering for Christ, because when we surrender to Him, our lives are not our own. They never were, but we realize the difference and accept our dependency on Him.

 "And lest I should be exalted above measure by the abundance of the revelations, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I be exalted above measure. Concerning this thing I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might depart from me. And He said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.' 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."

Just as Saul tried to fight a spiritual battle with physical armor, so often, most of the time we see the nation react in similar manner. Right now our Congress is on a shutdown, because the two parties could not reach an agreement, a stalemate on the annual budget. Whereas the demands of the one side want to create a greater deficit for our nation, rather than by cutting expenses in non-essential areas, many fraudulent in context, although worded so that the true use is not as obvious, it is harming the American people. But, people who demand to have things their way, in opposition to the will of the people who elect whom they wish to represent this country in the oval office and in other positions of leadership, the innocent suffer. It is an ugly thing, and it should open our eyes to how much things have changed.

On the other hand, we see revival breaking out at colleges and high schools, and in foreign countries more and more as the wind is blowing, and the Spirit of God is moving across this land. We need to decide, as the army of Israel in Saul's day had to decide, in whom we put our trust. 

"For since the creation of the world

His attributes are clearly seen, being understood by

the things that are made, even His eternal power and

Godhead, so that they are without excuse, because although

they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful,

but became futile in their thoughts and their foolish hearts were

darkened, professing to be wise, they became fools...."  

Romans 1:20-22 

Day 280 Two Years

 

10/7/2025 

"Comfort, yes, comfort My people!" says your God. 

"Speak comfort to Jerusalem, and cry out to her, that her warfare

is ended, that her iniquity is pardoned; for she has 

received from the LORD's hand double for all her sins."

Isaiah 40:1-2

  

The Feast of Tabernacles officially started last evening, and people have been setting up temporary shelters, or booths, in which they dwell for the eight days of the festival. This annual pilgrimage is done to remind the Jewish people of the time of Israel's 40 years in the wilderness, and as a reminder of God's provision during that time. It is a time when everyone, poor and wealthy alike, live in temporary, humble dwellings of branches, palms, with open skies. Today the attendees representing the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem (ICEJ), gathered in support of the families of the hostages as they remember today, the second anniversary of the unprovoked massacre by Hamas of innocent men, women, and children in their beds, in their homes, and at a festival of young people. Hostages taken that day still remain in the tunnels of Gaza, but an ultimatum has been made for the release of all remaining hostages, alive and dead. This is a time that is normally happy and festive, joyous and fun, instead it is bittersweet for all as they wait for their loved ones to come home.

The theme for the festival set up by ICEJ is taken from scripture, Zechariah 8:20-23: "Thus says the LORD of hosts: 'Peoples shall yet come, inhabitants of many cities; the inhabitants of one city shall go to another, saying, "Let us continue to go and pray before the LORD, and seek the LORD of hosts. I myself will go also." Yes, many peoples and strong nations shall come to seek the LORD of hosts in Jerusalem, and to pray before the LORD.' 

"Thus says the LORD of hosts, 'In those days ten men from every language of the nations shall grasp the sleeve of a Jewish man, saying, "Let us go with you, for we have heard that God is with you.'" 

Last night at the first night of the ICEJ Feast of Tabernacles celebration, a pastor spoke about how beautiful corporate worship is to God, but he wanted to emphasize that during this time of celebration together as the ICEJ family and with Israel, that God is calling each of us to individual worship. This is something I harp on a lot, as you know, so I am thankful that I'm not the only one. It's great to meet people for the first time face to face, as well as to meet others, making new friends and wonderful memories, and as such, we can get carried away and neglect the quiet time alone with God. Here they are in Israel, in Jerusalem, the City of God, neglecting quiet time?! But yes, it happens, and I can well imagine it happens a lot, as they scurry around doing things, eating out, visiting, and attending the festivities and conferences. It happens to us every day in our individual lives, and then the unimaginable happens to us. We cannot afford to draw away from God. The Bible teaches us in James 4:7-8 to draw nigh to God, resist the devil, and he will flee:

"Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God, and He will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded." 

Pastor Manosa also shared that as he was thinking about spending eternity in heaven where we will be worshiping God continually, that he wondered, "Wouldn't that get boring?" When he consulted with God about it, God said, "No, because He reveals Himself eternally." Every fraction, every second, of our time in Heaven with God will be like an "Eternal WOW!" Not just a "spark" of revelation but a huge BURST of insight of WHO HE IS!! Imagine it! God's attribute is His Holiness. His essence is Perfect Holiness. There is not comparison. He stands alone! In Heaven "we become the object of His Love, and He becomes the object of our worship." Think about it...He made us in His Image, creating Adam from dust, but Holy Spirit breath of life. When we meet Him, we will breathe out that breath. First breath - God to man, and final breath - man to God. Even thinking about it like that is a mini Eternal WOW, because we see in part and know in part, but then...WOW!

So in this life, anything that takes our focus off of God is idolatry. I was reading the book of Hosea that is a good illustration of how God view Israel as an adulterous nation because of their preference to idols who had no life, no breath, could not speak, yet time and time again, the people of Israel and Judah turned to the gods of the land, until God punished them and led them into exile to the very nations they served. But He always had a remnant in Judah who did not follow the ways of the disobedient and idolatrous worshipers that He likened to spiritual adultery. He is returning for a Bride without spot or wrinkle. 

The Apostle Paul in writing to the Corinthians regarding to the New Covenant in Christ said:

"Therefore, since we have such hope, we use great boldness of speech - unlike Moses, who put a veil over his face so that the children of Israel could not look steadily at the end of what was passing away. But their minds were blinded. For until this day the same veil remains unlifted in the reading of the Old Testament, because the veil is taken away by Christ. But even to this day, when Moses is read, a veil lies on their heart. Nevertheless when one turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. Now the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord." (2 Corinthians 3:12-18)

God has been restoring Israel to the land He gave them that includes Gaza and West Bank or Judea Samaria. The land is being restored, and the nation is being blessed in scientific, technological, and medical advances. Agriculturally the land is bursting with wealth and prosperity. But there is much more needed, as in the nations of this world - a spirit of repentance. God can take the most horrendous atrocities and restore what the locusts have eaten away. If we Gentiles do the work He has set us to do, they will come to know Jesus as Messiah and Lord. I pray for that day to happen quickly, as revival has begun in so many places already. Young people are rising up, hungry for more, not a nibble, but a banquet. They want the meat of the word of God. And we must deliver, because it is happening now. For Israel, Zechariah 12:10 says:

"And I will pour on the house of David and on the inhabitants of Jerusalem the Spirit of grace and supplication; then they will look on Me whom they pierced. Yes, they will mourn for Him as one mourns for his only son, and grieve for Him as one grieves for a firstborn."

Let it happen now, LORD! Open their eyes during the Feast, and receive the blessing of knowing the One who died to set them free!  

 "He is here, He is here,

to break the yoke and lift the heavy burden.

He is here, He is here,

To heal the hopeless heart and bless the broken."

Jesus Image, "He is Here" 

Day 279 Ineffable God

 

10/6/2025

"And they said to one another, 'Did not our hearts burn within 

us while He talked with us on the road, and while

He opened the Scriptures to us?'"

Luke 24:32

 

Have you ever experienced a moment in which all of a sudden the light comes on, and you know that you've been in the presence of God? Suddenly, while reading the word of God, or reflecting on something, or merely looking at something, and a spark bursts within your soul of knowing or a sense of being captivated by God! Heaven opens up and revelation is revealed within a millisecond of time. God comes near! I experienced this feeling yesterday while reading the word, as I expressed in my blog on Saturday. A vision He had given me at least 35+ years ago, and a light came on, just for a second. A glimpse of new hope! I've held on to dreams for so long, and with each passing day, they seem so unobtainable. Nothing I ever asked for, but visions from God and words spoken to me by Him. As I blog, and as I remember things, I begin to understand a little here, and a little there, but this was different. 

I wrote something awhile back and emailed it to myself so I wouldn't forget. It said, "I need to remind myself often that God does not move in my life according to my chronological age, and I must also remember that just because I am advancing in age rapidly, it doesn't mean I missed Him. He has a plan for my life, and although I know that I have done many of the things He wanted me to do, as He set it all up, there is still more to do until I take my last breath. I can look at Moses at age 80; Abraham, age 100; Sarah at 90. Caleb was 85 when he went in and warred for Hebron as his own inheritance after the Promised Land was taken. Nothing is impossible with Him. He can even raise the dead. I know He has, and I believe He can today. I wish more people could believe that."

Many times I have compared myself with others who seem to have accomplished so much, and I feel as if I've missed it, and I feel that my visions may have been exactly that - mine. I feel that I have done so little compared to others. And I do the "if I had" game. I guess that is the equivalent of going down the rabbit hole! Thankfully, I am avoiding rabbit holes and doing less and less comparisons, and I am trying to understand that I am uniquely me, so the plan God has for my life is uniquely mine. I don't want to become impatient and get in God's way. I think my family has had enough of that for a lifetime. No, I only want what He wants. This is why it is so important to have these moments where we know we have heard from God.

Each day Pastor Jack shares a portion of scripture with his 5 am MT audience of well over a thousand followers (4.5K-8.5K) from around the world, and this morning this verse confirmed what I had felt two days ago. God is faithful to confirm His word spoken to us, and it comes in the most unexpected ways, when you least expect it. So don't give up on hearing from the Lord. He is faithful, but it comes in His time and according to His plan. I know about waiting on the backside of the wilderness for a lot of years! Climbing the mountain takes even longer! Perseverance pays off!

"Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." Hebrews 12:1-2 

This evening in Israel Sukkot, Feast of Tabernacles, will officially begin. I tuned in for the first ceremony, but I need to check back tomorrow. I'm still tuckered out from my excursion on Saturday. I guess that must be a sign of aging, riding a bus several hours, walking around in the hot sun, being chased by bees, enticed by the aroma of fresh-baked goods, in a crowd of hundreds, including pets and strollers. I was butted, my foot rolled over, almost knocked down more than once when I hesitated for a moment to look at something. But...there is always a but...I survived and lived to tell about it. But...another but!..I did enjoy the time away from what has become my routine. I don't think anything should be a routine, as it implies something less than disciplined, which is how I try to live my life. I'm glad I allowed myself a breather, as the weight of intercession is a heavy and costly one.

I finished the reading of the book of Daniel today which oddly corresponds to where I am in the audio read through the Bible I do with a friend. I am going back in my daily read, as I should be in the gospels now, but God has had me on a circuitous path of reading through the Bible this year, and it seems His timing is ineffable! I've been wanting to use that word since I read it yesterday in my online devotional. It means "unable to describe, beyond expression." That's God! 

In Chapter 12 a vision is given to Daniel that greatly disturbs him, one he does not understand. He is informed by the angel, Gabriel, the following:

"But Daniel, keep this prophecy a secret; seal it up so that it will not be understood until the end times, when travel and education shall be vastly increased!" v. 4

"Only those who are willing to learn will know what it means." v. 10

"But go on now to the end of your life and your rest; for you will rise again and have your full share of those last days." v. 13

Curious words for Daniel, I imagine, but for us today, they are easily understood, especially as end time prophecy comes more into sight. According to these verses, and the ones in between, many will not understand, and they will pay a harsh price for their disobedience. Even so, God always has a remnant who will lead the way in an attempt to share the knowledge with those who are hungry and have a willing heart to receive. 

Today in the ICEJ call we continued the discussion of the Council of Nicaea as the beginning of antisemitism, spanning 1700 years. History has seemed to repeat itself as witnessed last year on October 7th. This year a plan for the release of all hostages, living and dead, has been set into place, but the enemy is hedging, as is typical. Nevertheless, we pray that this year will see an end to this war and the faces of Israel's loved ones, who have become my loved ones. O Father, please bring them home!   

So, we wait, and we pray, and we trust God above all else.