Day 249 Let Me See as You Do

 

9/6/2026 

"O soul, are you weary and troubled?
No light in the darkness you see?
There’s light for a look at the Savior,
And life more abundant and free." 

Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus

 

My weekend has been wonderfully encouraging with messages from my three online pastors with whom I've kept steady company for a period of time. I also begin Friday evenings with the Wilbur family for Shabbat in your Home, as Sabbath begins on Friday evening in Israel and continues until evening on Saturday. Then Sunday mornings I walk across the country highway to my parent's Baptist Church, but today I was having some health issues, so I elected to stay home. It turned better today. Pastor Greg was away today, so Pastor Levi Lusko brought the message at Harvest Ministries. I must say it was a very timely message that encouraged my aching soul. Later I checked in with Pastor Jack Hibbs for Part 2 of last week's message from Proverbs 3. Another welcomed time of worship, prayer, and instruction.

I've been feeding my neighbor's two cats while she's out of town for Labor Day, so the inside cat, Callie, is becoming acquainted with the 10/40 window of prayer for people who have not heard the Gospel. This evening I shared a couple of others missionary updates, and she seemed to take note and not turn away. She's a much better audience than most with whom I share missionary news. Each day I receive updates from the different missionary groups I connect with updating me or alerting me to a crisis. I've been involved with missions since I was very young. Back then I only supported the ones my mama helped, but over the years my education has grown, as has my involvement. Although, I must confess that I feel that I am failing in keeping certain countries in prayer. My bulletin board is covered with faces, and I hold on to the monthly magazines that come from Voice of he Martyrs hoping to make a large collage of more names and faces. But, there simply is not enough room, not enough space, not even enough walls, as the need is so vastly overwhelming.

I've been sharing bits and pieces of the messages from this weekend with others, because they really gave me hope that there are people who care, pastors who train their sheep even the young people to know what is going on so they will be equipped. Always the focus is on trusting God, but today I sensed a bit of resignation, and I pray I sensed wrongly. We must see through the eyes of Jesus, and we must always remember that words are important, so we have to guard what we say. The Word of God warns us to in Proverbs 4:23 "Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life."  Each day I repeat Proverbs 4:20-22 "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." One I repeat to others when their words are careless is found in Proverbs 18:21 "Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit." I hope these words do not fall on deaf ears.

I really wanted to share the meatiness of the Word that was shared with me over the past two days, as well as my personal time with Jesus, the things I wrote in my journal, the prayers we prayed in the daily call, and even some things the Lord has shown me. But as I've been sharing, I am so broken and desperately grieving the lack of interest in the things of the Lord by others that I don't want to have these pearls of wisdom fall on deaf ears, blinded eyes, and apathetic hearts. I so want for everyone to see Jesus, to know Him, truly know Him, to fall in love with Him all over again. Or maybe see Him for the first time and realize how wonderful He is. For people to realize all He has done for us, all He has given to us. To wake up each morning and truly thank God for sending His Son, His Only Son to save us, to pull us out of that muck and mire of sin and sit our feet on solid ground. To gaze upon His beauty in the Spirit of Holiness. 

I guess I'm a hopeless bore of a person to many, because all I do is talk about Jesus. I've chosen to step away from certain prayer groups, because I primarily wanted to listen more to what He was saying and how He was directing me to pray, rather than have a dozen prayer sheets with prayer points, too many to focus on. And quite honestly, I wanted to spend more time in actual praying than in hearing what seemed like rote responses from people who just wanted to hear themselves talking. I ask God's forgiveness so many times a day, because I do not want to be an accuser of the brethren. Satan has that firmly in his disgusting clutches, and I want no similarities with his personality. I want to emulate Jesus and show His love to others. But things just haven't seemed right to me. Many things. But by seeking God, and remaining humble and repentant, searching my heart, confessing any sin, I know I'll know the next step. I've also been under quite an emotional strain since December of last year, so I did need to step back and take note of a few priorities which had changed. I have to laugh, because my life is becoming increasingly interesting, and I have a few thorns in the flesh for my own making, I hope. Paul had his thorn, and I recently heard another brother speak of one the Lord thought he needed to keep. At least I'm in good company, although Paul is in heaven now, thorn free. But somehow it's a privilege to suffer for Christ, if that's what it is. I don't profess to know very much at all. I just keep doing what I know He says "do." Maybe if you're reading this you'll consider praying for me. I'd appreciate the comfort.

"The real purpose of our wrestling in prayer is to render us so impotent

and helpless, not only in connection with our physical and spiritual needs, but, above all,

our ability to pray, that our prayer really becomes a prayer for the 

Spirit of prayer."

O. Hallesby  

Day 248 My Plea

 

9/5/2026 

"If you look at the world, you'll be distressed. 

If you look within, you'll be depressed.

If you look at God, you'll be at rest."

Corrie ten Boom

 

Our world is changing, and even though the signs are obvious, and have been for some time, many fail to see or simply do not want to pay attention. Nothing has really changed as this type of behavior - the inability to want to see - has existed for a very long while. Dietrich Bonhoeffer knew about this condition of man, as did Corrie ten Boom. I have been speaking out about it for a very long time, but my words falls on deaf ears as well. I guess it's easier to believe someone who claims that heaven is made of mountains of jello or pudding or some other nonsense. But that is simply not true. I do want to inform visitors to my page what the Bible says about certain Biblical events and educate. I'm not distressed or worried, because I know that nothing is a surprise to God. In fact God mentions all these things in His Word which I guess no one studied in seminaries or taught in church. It makes me very sad, because I know that situations presently going on in this world are not pleasing to Him and the disobedience and disbelief of man breaks His heart. 

I have admitted before that there have been times when I simply do not know how to pray, so I cry out to the Lord, and I weep over our nation that is turning its back on God. We have a President and his administration who have been trying very hard to turn things back around, re-claiming America as One Nation Under God while many mocked him, and churches remained silent. Without repentance change cannot come. This is the reason revivals do not tarry after the initial days have ended, and life eventually picks back up where it was before. 

When King David sinned against God by taking a census to number the people, God offered him three choices in judgment. David chose to face the Lord's punishment rather than fall into man's hands. The prophet Gad told David to do the following:

"And Gad came that day to David and said to him, 'Get up, erect an altar to the LORD on the threshing floor of Araunah the Jebusite.' So David, according to the word of Gad, went up as the LORD commanded. Now Araunah looked, and saw the king and his servants coming toward him. So Araunah went out and bowed before the king with his face to the ground. Then Araunah said, 'Why has my lord the king come to his servant?' And David said, 'To buy the threshing floor from you, to build an altar to the LORD, that the plague may be withdrawn from the people.' Now Araunah said to David, 'Let my lord the king take and offer up whatever seems good to him. Look, here are oxen for burnt sacrifice, and threshing implements and the yokes of the oxen for wood. All these, O king, Araunah has given to the king.' And Araunah said to the king, 'May the LORD your God accept you.' Then the king said to Araunah, 'No, but I will surely buy it from you for a price; nor will I offer burnt offerings to the LORD my God with that which costs me nothing.' So David bought the threshing floor and the oxen for fifty shekels of silver. And David built there an altar to the LORD, and offered burnt offerings and peace offerings. So the LORD heeded the prayers for the land, and the plague was withdrawn from Israel" (2 Samuel 24:18-25).   

David understood the seriousness of his sin which brought the judgment of God on the people. And David also knew that he could not give something to the Lord that did not cost him. He had to surrender himself into God's hands and trust Him. He came to God with a repentant heart, recognizing his failure in verse 17 of the same Chapter: "Then David spoke to the LORD when he saw the angel who was striking the people, and said, 'Surely I have sinned, and I have done wickedly; but these sheep, what have they done? Let Your hand, I pray, be against me and against my father's house.'"

The sins of our nation are so many, and we have allow darkness to come into our country destroying the freedom that God gave this country when our nation was established. We have allowed wickedness to come into our government, our cities, our schools, our borders, and the consequences are now becoming very obvious, yet still no one dares to speak up. And when there is silence, one becomes complicit with the sin. 

Repentance begins in each heart, then it becomes corporate. This weekend we remember 9/11 that will forever be etched in the mind and written on my heart as a heavy price our nation paid with the loss of so many precious, innocent lives. What have we learned?!

I am tired, and I do not understand what has happened to men and women who claim to know and love the Lord Jesus. What would men like George Whitefield, John Wesley, Jonathan Edwards, or Rees Howells think of the condition of men's hearts? How much more has to happen for the church to wake up? 

I won't give up or in. I will continue to stand the watch.

"My helpless friend, your helplessness is the most powerful plea which rises up

to the tender father-heart of God. You think that everything is closed to you because

you cannot pray. My friend, your helplessness is the very essence of prayer."

O. Hallesby  

Day 247 The Lion Roars

 

9/4/2026

"One thing I have desired of the LORD;

that will I seek; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD

all he days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD,

and to inquire in His temple."

Psalm 27:4

 

In a few short weeks we will be celebrating the Feast of Tabernacles, one of the three mandatory Feasts of the LORD, appointed times when men are commanded to come up to Jerusalem to meet the LORD and worship Him. The prophet Zechariah spoke of the end of times when all nations would come up to Jerusalem to worship the King: 

"And it shall come to pass that everyone who is left of all the nations which came against Jerusalem shall go up from year to year to worship the King, the LORD of hosts, and to keep the Feast of Tabernacles. And it shall be that whichever of the families of the earth do not come up to Jerusalem to worship the King, the LORD of hosts, on them there will be no rain" (Zechariah 14:16-17). 

Zechariah is speaking of the Millennial Reign when Jesus Christ will rule the nations from Jerusalem. This period will be after the 7 years of the Tribulation period when Christ, along with the saints - those taken up in the Rapture - will rule from Jerusalem for 1,000 years. Those who survived the tribulation period will decide whether they are going to serve Jesus during this time, and it is my understanding that there will be children born during these times. I certainly hope they choose wisely, as I pray that we all do each day of our lives. Living for Christ should be the joy of our life, as David expressed in Psalm 27 his declaration of faith in the God of his salvation. 

We are still in the month of Elul which is a time of introspection and repentance leading up to the High Holy Days of Rosh Hashanah (Feast of Trumpets) and Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement), and followed by the Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot). It is a time of preparation, repentance, and celebration. I have never celebrated the Feast of Tabernacles in person, but this will be my third year of joining the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem online during the five day event. I feel so blessed to be able to join many online as we celebrate together with our friends in Jerusalem for this special time of worship. There will be two worship nights set aside for the younger generation who have been invited to share worship with the ministries of Solu Israel and Upper Room. There will be many special guests and great teaching as well as other programs. We pray for a great turnout from the locals this year and a mighty outpouring of Holy Spirit. The theme is The Lion Roars from Zion taken from Amos 1:2: "And he said: 'The LORD roars from Zion, and utters His voice from Jerusalem; the pastures of the shepherds mourn, and the top of Carmel withers.'" The prophet Joel says in Joel 3:16: "The LORD also will roar from Zion, and utter His voice from Jerusalem; the heavens and earth will shake; but the LORD will be a shelter for His people, and the strength of the children of Israel."

We pray for a time of great refreshing, and a prayer for true revival that will shake he earth, open men's eyes to see Jesus Christ as Messiah, a revival that will bring great transformation and the message will be shared all over this world. Many will be saved, brought to new life again in Messiah. Dry bones assembled, and the breath of life through Holy Spirit breathed into their lungs. What a glorious time it will be as many are born again. 

Come, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord! 

Day 246 Come!

 

9/3/2026

"There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, 

nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus."

Galatians 3:28 

 

I love the words of Paul found in the book of Galatians quoted above, spoken to the Christians at Galatia who were being duped into believing they needed to return to the Law. Paul is speaking of the Changeless Promise of our Father in Jesus Christ as joint heirs to the promise of Abraham because of our faith in Jesus as Messiah. Much more God speaks of equality in Jesus Christ. 

In 1 Corinthians 1:18-25 Paul was sharing words of counsel to the new believers who were struggling to understand new life in Christ. The culture of this city in Greece was "a bustling hub of worldwide commerce, degraded culture, and idolatrous religion," according to the Bible commentary. Paul is sharing Christ as the Power and Wisdom of God to a church struggling with a history of "factions, lawsuits, immorality, questionable practices, abuse of the Lord's Supper, and spiritual gifts." That's a lot to contend with as new believers in Christ who are probably wondering "why us?" 

"For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. For it is written: 'I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent.' Where is the wise? Where is the scribe? Where is the disputer of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of this world? For since, in the wisdom of God, the world through wisdom did not know God, it pleased God through the foolishness of the message preached to save those who believe. For Jews request a sign, and Greeks seek after wisdom; but we preach Christ crucified, to the Jews a stumbling block and to the Greeks foolishness, but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and wisdom of God. Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and he weakness of God is stronger than men." 

When God chose Abraham as the father of the nations and the Jews as His chosen people, He said He didn't do it, because they were any better than anyone else. He chose them and gave them the land only to fulfill the word which the LORD swore to their fathers, to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (Deuteronomy 9:4-6). God made a covenant with Abraham, and God always keeps His word. And He keeps His word to us, the Gentiles as well when we come to belief in Christ. We are not special, we are forgiven, and we would do well to remember that we are saved by grace alone, and we cannot work our way to heaven. It is only by the blood of Jesus Christ.

I've been reading the story of Katharine Barnwell (9 August 1938 - 29 September 2025) a British missionary and Bible translator who worked in Nigeria developing a Bible in their Biblical tongue that was common to all. She is one of many unsung heroes of the faith who selflessly gave her life to bring the Gospel and the written word to an African tribe resulting in the spread of the translation in unique ways that reached the continent and influenced others to follow her example and techniques. She worked through the Summer Institute of Linguistics and later with Wycliffe Bible translators.

Although she is not widely known in church or missionary circles, other than the translation world, her contributions to the spread of the gospel were groundbreaking, and in spite of the acclaim she received within her circles, she remained extremely humble, never wanting to be "seen" or "lauded" by others. The glory always belonged to the Lord. What is interesting to me is that because of her unique methods in putting the translation of the gospel in the hands of those who were most capable - the Nigerian tribes themselves, there was division and quite a bit of controversy which was based on jealousy by those who felt themselves more academically equipped to do the job, because they had acquired a PhD in linguistics and other western academics. Katy also was sent off to gain her PhD before being permitted to do the work she innately was trained by God to do, as it was so obvious to all. But men often judge by degrees and accomplishments rather than experience, culture, and God's choice of the best man for the job. I'm used to seeing jealously and pride get in the way of success, but I never thought the mission field would be affected. I imagine at the time it was a most shameful thing for the Nigerian people and even the western staff to witness. At least the work Katy was equipped to do was not hindered, nor was the work the tribe translators were chosen to accomplish, and eventually things worked out.

Katy's life included many wonderful accomplishments, and God used her mightily to accomplish His work in Nigeria and elsewhere. Her methods are still widely used as the best methods for Bible translation. I mention her life as an illustration of how God can use and equip someone totally disregarded by a family member (her father and sister) or in areas where circumstances seem impossible. Katy faced many dangers in Nigeria and other places, but God protected her and taught her to remain calm, trusting, and obedient. Her story is amazing. God can take those people who seem the least likely to accomplish many wonderful things and use them mightily for His purpose and service to turn the world upside down. All He needs is a willing heart.

And God can take seemingly ignorant tribesmen and use them as translators when they lack any formal education, to translate Bibles to be used in the different dialects of their countries and the continent. Great is the faithfulness of our God!  

In the Kingdom of God the opportunities of service are endless, and He invites all to "Come!" He'll provide the training and know how!

Day 245 The World Stage

 

9/2/2026

"All the world's a stage, and

all the men and women merely players;..."

"As You Like It" by

Shakespeare  

 

Actually I was hoping to use a quotation about a circus, comparing it to our world, but then Shakespeare popped into my memory, as at one time I aficionado about his works. I used to love Greek Mythology, too, but except for references used by people making analogies or inferences, my knowledge of the subjects lies dormant in that filing cabinet in my mind labeled "Garbage." I can say that - after all Paul once said he counted all things as "dung" in Philippians 3:8-9:  "Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ, and be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith."

I've been having a difficult time completing my blogs the last few days, putting them into translatable thoughts, often written in gibberish, therefore illegible. I've been so tired, not so much physically, although there is that also. But I'm emotionally tired, drained to the nth degree at the ridiculous stuff that arrives in my inbox about the things going on in our nation - and world. If the news were not so tragic, the comments would be laughable. The fact that people are surprised about it is even more reason to roll my eyes and say to myself "Ya think!"

I hear others say, and I even have said it, "When did things get to this point?" or "How could that happen in a Christian nation?!" or "Why isn't anyone speaking out about this, after all people need to know. Doesn't the scripture say to warn others?" All valid questions and points, but the answer remains the same - "It happened while we were napping at the wheel!" 

I've been using Pinterest for my illustrations, plus I used to spend my then free time designing boards of interest, which I still do on occasion, and I find interesting things to post on my Facebook page or a lighthearted images in an effort to detract from the seriousness of my normal posts. Recently I've noticed more nostalgic images about the days when I was growing up, mostly in black and white, as color prints were not available at that age in time. We had advanced from drawing on cave walls to paper by then! But there's one I find quite interesting:

 

When I post one of these memories, I generally receive thumbs up, hearts, or smiles, and perhaps a response about our glory days of good health and laughter. Now, I was different in that regard, but I didn't realize it at he time, because unbeknown to doctors back in the day, immune deficiency disorders were not something doctors understood. My folks knew I was sick, especially from frequent migraine headaches and other maladies uncommon to young children, and the teachers knew, because I went to school anyway. Like anyone else, if I had to stay home, there was a good reason:

 

Now I can relate better to castor oil or paregoric, than resorting to daddy's medicine, as noted above. But the point is that we didn't rush to the doctor without a good excuse, and parents weren't as frightened about sickness as they are today, so their fear was not transferred onto the children. I don't think that's a bad thing. As it turned out, I had some serious things going on in my body, not seen in one so young, but I never allowed it to make me feel different, so I lived my life. Case in point would be when Covid hit, and everyone wass locked inside, forbidden to do this or that. I had to work with my patients, who already had health issues, so naturally I took precautions, but then I was careful every day. Because they were afraid, I made certain that I assured them of their safety and conducted myself responsibly and professionally. While everyone was panicking, believing anything the media was putting out, taking this shot and swallowing that medication and sanitizing the cat, I did not receive shots or inoculations. Neither I nor my clients ever got sick, and I praise and thank God alone for that blessing! But fear I would not embrace nor allow anyone under my care to consider. Fear is the opposite of faith. Now the truth about those days is filtering out, so I no longer have to make my scientific points as a research biologist. And the truth is ugly.

I'm not saying that someone should not go to the doctor - that would be ridiculous, as God has given many gifted physicians the ability to help us in our times of need. Luke who wrote the Gospel of Luke was a physician, so doctors have their place. What I am saying is that responding in fear can be dangerous, causes stress and needless anxiety, raising blood pressure and other risks causing worse things to happen. And now the reports of needless deaths, of which I know a few, are being exposed. Many healthy young people got cancer which may have been a result of too many preventative, repetitive inoculations. Just saying!

But worst things than viruses and bacterial infections have been plaguing our nation, and the results are being witnessed in the lawlessness, perversion, changes to our laws, and the ultimate plans to do away with America as it was founded to be - free and One Nation Under God. The price paid to achieve this freedom was high - the loss of human lives - and the cost of attempting to defend it over the years from communist aggression, drugs and violence has been steep. In considering the information I received about the DSA's plans to completely uproot our legislative and judicial systems and open borders again to drugs, trafficking, and crime as well as getting rid of law enforcement, prisons, and other safety organizations, the future of our country appears very dark unless we wake up and take notice and do something. Socialism and communism is not what America is all about, and neither are other terrible practices already taking over in certain areas. It's time to wake up! It's a matter of choice - just as it has been since God created the earth.

Where will we stand? What life will we choose? 

Day 244 Something More - Tikvah

 

9/1/2026

"And the Spirit and the bride say, 'Come!' And let him who hears

say 'Come!' And let him who thirsts come. Whoever desires, 

let him take the water of life freely."

Revelation 22:17

 

I find it so exciting when someone finds new life in Christ, especially when a Jewish man or woman encounters our Messiah and receives God's great gift of salvation and redemption by the blood of His Beloved Son. Many people claim to know Him, but they have never tarried long enough to truly encounter His Presence. When we surrender our hearts and lives to Him in repentance and wed Him as our Savior and Lord, He sends Holy Spirit to dwell inside of us, to lead us and remind us of His instruction. God's Chosen people did not see the truth of who He is, and so we, who have graciously been grafted into the vine as co-heirs to the promise given to Abraham, have a responsibility as outlined in Romans, Chapters 9-11, to provoke the Jewish people to jealousy in our love and relationship with God. In this way we minister to them, and their curiosity when they witness our fellowship with God opens their eyes and hearts to Jesus.

In our Worship Watch this morning at Kehilat HaCarmel a story of a young Jewish man's conversion was shared. I believe he is a soldier in the IDF serving his nation, an orthodox Jew, who was also a student of Kabbalah, a mystical, esoteric school of thought that disciplines the mind to focus on hidden wisdom and knowledge as a means of "fixing" or "correcting" oneself. In many ways it is the opposite of what a relationship with God our Creator teaches, but at one time even Hollywood was delving into the practice. It's interesting that men seek "knowledge" of the supernatural, and the Bible is full of God's divine inspiration and gifts. Only God can "fix" or transform a human life, save a life.

The young man was not satisfied with his study of this mystical approach to enlightenment and fulfillment (my interpretation), as his soul hungered for more. In fact his words were that he knew there was "SOMETHING MORE." So in his quest for more, he found Jesus, our Messiah, our Living Hope (Tikvah), on the pages of the Bible, God's Word to us about the Living Word, the Bread of Life, the Living Water - Jesus Christ! Imagine the joy that fills his heart as he walks with His Master today!

So child-like, so simple, so real. An escape from the horrors of man's harsh world of evil, hatred, dissatisfaction, and the lust for more. When we truly encounter the Living God, dwell in His Presence, sitting at His feet, we see nothing except Him - knowing Him and Him crucified - for me, for you, for all, for anyone who hungers and thirsts. For the weary and lost, for the hurt and lonely, for all! Why can't we see Him for Who He Is?!   

"Likewise, I say to you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” 

Luke 15:10 

Day 243 Seeing as a Child

 

8/31/2026

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

you will never enter the kingdom of heaven."  

 

I've been listening to a lot of criticism lately especially from family, added to the criticism I received for putting Jesus first in my life and for believing everything He says. I'm told that I am gullible and "care, actually care waaay too much for people...most are not worth a ....!" Also, I'm told that I try to find the best in people when "nobody is good." 

I've been trying to put playful, fun images on my Facebook page, because I tend to be very intense, as I attempt to educate others about Biblical prophecy and how it is being played out in real time today. I don't really hear much from my friends, because I stand up and tell the truth, and that's not popular. I'm not accusing anyone, I'm just stating the Words from Scripture, and I am lamenting the state of our nation and world. I'm just an average person, and I don't have anything anybody wants, so I have nothing to lose, and if I did, I would speak the truth anyway, but I'm not ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I may not like what a person does or says, but because I am a child of God I love everybody, even if they do abominable things, because God is love, and regardless of our actions, He doesn't give up on us or abandon us. Everyone sins and falls short of the glory of God. I just admit my failures more openly, but I also state my desire to service God wholeheartedly and unreservedly. I'd pray for the devil if I thought he could be saved. God doesn't want anyone to go to hell. I don't either. I cannot imagine total separation from God. I've been hurt by others and some bad things done to me, but I harbor no ill feelings, and I don't hate anyone. I pray for the salvation of those I know and those I don't. How can we say we love Jesus if we hate our neighbors?! But there are those who would argue that point also. Things are certainly in a big mess.  

As I was reading my prayer points for today, I found myself crying out to God about the drastic changes in the Democratic Party today from the party that existed when my parents were still alive. The path it is headed today is unconscionable, and the fact that leaders in our nation and in our churches are going along with sheer evil, is disconcerting, inconceivable, and a deplorable twist from integrity to immorality and worse. It indeed is calling good evil and evil good. I received a prayer update about the Democratic Socialists of America co-founded by Megan Romer, but it's origins go back further when it was organized by Michael Harrington. Reading the agenda on which this organization stands is heartbreaking and stands against all that is moral and good. It is anti-American, and that is the goal. All Americans, especially those who say they are Christians, should be knowledgeable about the stand candidates take on certain issues, and vote according to Biblical values rather than personal opinions or the stands friends or colleagues are taking. Most people really do not have a clue about the truth, as they just follow the leader, and people deceive. Satan is he father of lies. We are in a spiritual battle, and we are admonished to study to show ourselves approved, educated, and aware about all matters, especially when it comes to Biblical values. If we are Americans and truly want to see our nation survive, we must wake up and stand up and speak up!

We need to thank God for the present administration we now have, even when things are not "perfect" in our eyes. What is? But a man who stands up to proclaim our nation One Nation Under God, and who is working to protect our privileges and rights according to the Constitution, we should bow our knees and thank Almighty God for His divine intervention on behalf of our country.

I'm glad I'm me, and I gladly will take the heat and be called whatever, because I stand for what God says, and I am trying to live my life in accordance to His instructions. It's not hard, and yes, Jesus said we cannot enter the Kingdom of God unless we become as little children. As Christians we shouldn't be telling others not to be concerned, because God is in control. Well, yes He is, but if we look at the Scriptures, God says He fights for us, but He expects us to repent, turn from our wicked ways, suit up in our whole armor, get on our horses, and go to the battle front and witness how He takes the enemy down. 2 Chronicles 20 is and example of how God fights on our behalf. 

I love this quotation by Max Lucado from his book And the Angels Were Silent: 

"Quit looking at life like an adult and see it through the eyes of a child. Essential counsel for us sober-minded, serious-faced, sour-pussed adults. Necessary advice for us Charles Atlas wannabes who shoulder the world. Good words for those of us who seldom say, 'I can't wait until I wake up,' and more often state, 'I can't wait to go to bed.'"

I'm anxious for the return of Jesus, and I hope God in His mercy sends Him back soon, but I am not going to sit on a church pew waiting for the Rapture. I will be aware of what I need to do, so I can pray appropriately, but I will not be distracted by all the evil that is happening and bogging my mind with gloom and doom. I serve a Risen Savior who is very much alive and active in our lives today! Why should I fear what man can do to me? I'm going to get up in the morning and occupy until He returns, no matter how hard it gets. And I'll still be praying for everyone, even every deceived person who is aligning themselves with evil, as my heart breaks, and the tears flow, because I do care, and I want to see all saved, living for Jesus. Step by step He leads me, and we will overcome by the blood of the Lamb, the word of our testimony, and we love not our lives to the death.

Day 242 How to Acquire Wealth

 

8/30/2026

"For who makes you differ from another? And what do you

have that you did not receive? Now if you did indeed  receive it, 

why do you boast as if you had not received it?" 

 

1 Corinthians 4:7

 

 

As you know, I attend Sunday afternoon services online with my California family at Calvary Chapel Chino Hills shepherded by Jack Hibbs. We are studying the book of Proverbs, snailing through, verse by verse, greedily devouring each syllable, savoring the flavor of God's Word for us today. He pulls no punches, teaches only the Word, and admits when he doesn't know something. How refreshing in an age when people always want the last say, and if they don't know an answer, they google the question for an answer in an effort to appear intellectual and scholarly. This is the height of hubris, which is another word for pride. What is the great sin in admitting we do not have the answers?! But we do know who has the answer to all things - Jesus! This is why I cling to one of the words given by Paul to the congregation in Corinth: "For I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified."   

(1 Corinthians 2:2).

 

Today we picked up the study in Proverbs 3:7-10:

 

"Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and depart from evil. It will be health to your flesh, and strength to your bones. Honor the LORD with your possessions. And with the firstfruits of all your increase; so your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will overflow with new wine." 

 

Pastor Jack entitled this message How to Get Rich Quick. I'm wondering how many people surfing the internet for information on prosperity, financial assistance, wealth, or any topic concerning money, or the accumulation thereof, were directed to this website?! Imagine sitting through the entire message just to hear the words "when you die you're taking nothing with you" or "nothing you have belongs to you." Of course, Pastor Jack is a bit more animated in his teaching, so they may become more enthusiastic until he gets to the heart of the matter which I quoted from 1 Corinthians 4:7 above. Everything, absolutely everything we have or think we own has been given to us by God - even your health, your intellect, your ability to go to college or get the job you ached for, and to achieve success. Some may ask, "Well, if that is so, then why hasn't God given me the things that I want or need?" To that I can only say that God is in control, and He knows what He is doing. Besides which, we in America are so incredibly blessed. Even when some go without eating it is not to the degree or the level of starvation that so many endure in other countries. I do know this though...no matter how limited our finances may be, if we reach out in love to others who are less fortunate than we, God will multiply blessings to us when we give from a heart of love and compassion and not from a desire to gain more for ourselves. We do not gain brownie points for heaven. God sees our hearts and searches the intentions and motives. 

 

In his discussion, Elon Musk's lifestyle, a trillionaire, was mentioned. I have listened to Elon's testimony about his life myself. He states that he lives a humble or minimalist lifestyle, because possessions "just weigh you down." He doesn't own cars, homes, yachts, or even a home, and he doesn't carry cash. He doesn't take a salary, and he doesn't take any of the money from sales or invenions. I don't know what he does with his money, and it's not my business. He's an immigrant who is an American citizen investing his life and talents to benefit others. He no longer considers himself an atheist, acknowledges God as the Creator, and agrees with the teachings of Jesus. To me that is the definition of wealth. He cares more about others than he does himself. Whether or not he has received the Greatest Gift or not - the Gift of Salvation - I don't know, but I feel that even if he has not, in his simplistic reasoning and understanding, he will find his way. Especially if we do our job as intercessors and pray for him. 

 

From the reading today the message I want to share is found in verses 7 & 8 of Proverbs 3 as well as verses 5 & 6 from last week:

 

"Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and depart from evil. It will be health to your flesh, and strength to your bones." 

 

I underscored the words "fear the LORD," to emphasize the importance of these words which do not mean cowering in timidity and apprehension, although many would do well if they did. Rather, to fear God means to reverence Him as a Holy God and to give Him the honor and praise, and especially thanks, due Him. If we heeded His counsel, walked in His ways, it would indeed be an abundant lifestyle, as Elon Musk understands in a different way. God sees our hearts. He knows our needs and hears our desires. Simply trust Him - that's all He asks. Accept Him, love Him. "Find the love of Jesus, and love Him back."

 

Day 241 Keep Dancing!

8/29/2026

"Every miracle begins with

a problem."

 

Whenever I become overwhelmed or heavily burdened, I try to make it a habit to turn on the praise music, especially something that makes me feel childlike and free, a song that makes me throw up my hands in adoration, turn in a circle and dance! Instantly I feel much better, and I can laugh and sing and dance, dance, dance! I especially love Hebrew music with almost a gypsy feel to the lifts and turns. 

The Psalmist in Psalm 149:1-4 instructs us in how we are to honor our Lord: "Praise the LORD! Sing to the LORD a new song, and His praise in the assembly of saints. Let Israel rejoice in their Maker; let the children of Zion be joyful in their King. Let them praise His name with the dance; let them sing praises to Him with the timbrel and harp. For the LORD takes pleasure in His people; He will beautify the humble with salvation."

King David was enthusiastic in his worship and praise to God as demonstrated in the psalms he wrote while tending his father's sheep and while he served in the court of Saul when Saul was King of Israel. But his spontaneous exuberance and love for the Lord is so clearly expressed in his actions when the Ark of the Covenant was being moved back to Jerusalem from the home of Obed-edom where it remained for three months. 2 Samuel 6:14-15 describes the scene: "Then David danced before the LORD with all his might; and David was wearing a linen ephod. So David and all the house of Israel brought up the ark of the LORD with shouting and with the sound of the trumpet." It was a time of great celebration as offerings were made to the LORD, and the people were blessed. When the feasting and celebration had ended, David further blessed the people: "Then he distributed among all the people, among the whole multitude of Israel, both the women and the men, to everyone a loaf of bread, a piece of meat, and a cake of raisins. So all the people departed, and everyone to his house" (2 Samuel 6:19).

If you read the scripture that lies between the incident with the Philistines up to the successful return of the Ark of the Covenant in 2 Samuel, it will be obvious that the twenty years or more between were not easy times, and the years following were not so either. Such has been the experience for the nation of Israel throughout history up to today, as it is for all true believers in Jesus Christ who stand in unity with God's chosen people. But true to the quotation noted above, miracles do happen, as they have so obviously occurred throughout the Scriptures. I know personally I have experienced supernatural moves of God in my life, so I know for a surety that miracles do happen every day! 

We do well to heed the counsel and example of those who have gone before us in acknowledging the sovereignty of our God and obedience to worshiping Him in Spirit and in Truth. Our greatest weapon in this spiritual battle in which we find ourselves today is worship! It's important to be properly prepared so that we do not become discouraged or disgruntled. We must be courageous and follow the Word of the Lord. Psalm 149 continues with verses 5-9:

"Let the saints be joyful in glory; let them sing aloud on their beds. Let the high praises of God be in their mouth, and a two-edged sword in their hand, to execute vengeance on the nations, and punishments on the peoples; to bind their kings with chains, and their nobles with fetters of iron; to execute on them the written judgment - this honor have all His saints. Praise the LORD!" 

Selah. 

Day 240 Just Breathe

 

8/28/2026

 "Laughter is your soul dancing."

Unknown

 

My mini-vacation last week was short-lived, so I made a decision to spend a little more time doing some fun things with friends just to give myself a breather. My lifestyle is pretty intense, but that's the way things go in this season of life. I have been getting out every so often visiting relatives when we can track them down, going shopping with my sister or planning my next major repair for our parent's home - now my home - and every so often my high school friends get together for lunch. Other than that, attending funerals has been high on the list of things to do. Not a happy option! 

Since my life has not adjusted back to where it initially was a year ago, I haven't been able to work with Dolls on Mission painting faces for the dolls, and I gave up attempting to knit, so my community activity has been a bit null and void. My friend, Kathy, and her sister Diane are always inviting me to get out, so I decided that I'd help them with the Chesterfield County Fair working in the art department this year. A couple of years ago I helped with the arts and crafts at the Fair, and we really had a great time, so I thought - "I can do this!" So today we started out early and spent most of the day at the fairgrounds.

When we arrived one of the judges was already waiting to judge the entries, but two judges are needed for each department, but shortly the second judge arrived. The girls had worked the previous evening when the entries were brought in, so all the art work was displayed on the lattice board ready for judging. Since the art work has to be judged by category and by age, my job was to get the pieces in order, which turned out to be a considerable undertaking. I tend to be very detail oriented and hands on, so once all the entries were off the wall, I was able to arrange them categorically by number, while Kathy and Diane had the fun job of filling out the documentation as each piece was judged by age, in the proper category. The judges had the option to change the category if they felt it had not been assigned correctly - medium used to produce the art, for instance. Once judged, blue, red, or white ribbons were attached and the art work was once again placed on the wall for display. There was also the Best in the Show category to be selected. All the artists performed well, so the judges had a very difficult task assigning each award.

I spent most of my time on the floor, arranging the art into the categories, then lining them up on the table for judging by category. As we went about the exercise routines of climbing up in a chair to either remove or re-hang the art, we were mentally trying to plan for next year, that is if there is a next year! We had to laugh, because when they left on Thursday evening, they felt they were organized and ready for today, but new forms were printed, which started the process of starting over from scratch. Although it may have been confusing at times and extremely vigorous on my end with the floor routines and for all of us climbing on tottering chairs, stretching to reach high to hang the art, we all had a lot of fun.

All volunteers were provided with lunch, with three main choices and two desserts, plus this year there were donuts provided by the workers. Since I'm not able to eat gluten I couldn't risk eating the donut, so I took it home to my son to enjoy. We had quite a trek from the building we were in to the lunch wagon on the other side of the fair, unless of course, we jumped over fences and wove in and out of rides and exhibits being put up for the opening night of the Fair. There are tables set up in the area with condiments available, but they were not in packets within the bags. Additional items to put on our "Things to bring next year list." After making the hike, getting turned around in all the exhibits, I came back empty handed as no salt or ketchup packets were available outside of the area. Later at home, I found salt packets in my purse, but I won't mention that to the gals who suffered eating French fries without salt. Ugh.

Sadly, one of the ladies I met a previous year, who worked with the Fairs in the 4H area, passed away earlier this year, so it added a sad note to the day. I remember her so well, as she truly inspired me to continue my education, regardless of my age, and to continue my art. Unfortunately, I didn't see her again, and I didn't follow through with my plans. I really regret that, and it's something I've thought about a lot recently. The brevity of time, nurturing relationships, and using the gifts God has given me. 

The majority of my life I have been very active in community, schools, church, and family. I've been blessed to travel an unexpected journey, and I have used a great many gifts and skills that God has given me. I never thought about myself as being talented or gifted, I just had fun helping, planning, creating, working, and encouraging others to do the same. This includes the gift of intercession, because I used to pray when I walked my dogs or when I ran after them in the woods and mountains, enjoying nature, laughing, worshiping God enjoying His Creation. A few years ago my life changed, and I've been adjusting slowing to this new season of my life. I no longer have dogs, but I am now a cat lady, another change in my life. Today was a good beginning of another bend in the road, and I hope I can encourage myself to keep it going.

I've been behind in my daily writing, but I'm finding that I do get it done. The thoughts are on paper, and it just takes time to read the scribbling, decipher my meaning, and type it out. But I'm doing it, and I'm remaining faithful to that part of my calling. All in all I think everything will be alright. I just need to learn to let go of some things and just breathe! 

Day 239 Broken Pots

 

8/27/2026

"The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit, a broken and a contrite

heart - these, O God, You will not despise."

Psalm 51:17

 

Another early morning wake up call, but I feel more prepared for today than I did yesterday. I've been going to medical appointments with my son as a support should he need me to drive. He actually said he enjoys having me around, even though I can be a chatterbox at times. I imagine it depends on the subject, as I prefer the quiet drive. But then, I guess God would say I talk to Him a lot when it's just the two of us. I suppose it can be reassuring to have someone along for the ride. I spent many years driving myself to appointments when I would have welcomed having someone along to hold my hand. But I survived those days, and I became stronger in spite of the struggles. Now that I am advancing in age (chuckling) I am grateful that I am closer to friends and family, especially my sister.

It's interesting how God orchestrates my day, or at least that is how I feel about my life. If I surrender it all to Him, why wouldn't He be in control? I can make my own decisions, but Holy Spirit, living in me, directs my steps. I love that! He keeps me in line! This morning I opened my journal and began to share my feelings about my children's physical hardships, thinking about how the system doesn't really care about the root cause of a health issue, rather it focuses only on a bandaid treatment - a quick fix. One that invariably leads to more and more band-aids heaped on top of each other causing more medical inconsistencies. And round and round they go! It's frustrating to me as a small time research biologist who prefers to look at a problem from the cellular level. I'm kind of like Dr. House in that way, except I have been considering the powerhouse of the cell that is designed to keep the body functioning systemically,  each organ in sync with the others - fearfully and wonderfully God calls it. 

But going back to my original thought...when I opened my daily devotional this morning, Until He Comes by Amir Tsarfati & Barry Stagner, the title was "God Uses the Broken." The author writes about the Apostle Peter's struggle with speaking when he should be listening as an example of how God can work through a person's life in bringing about transformation and growth. Peter had the habit of making profound responses to Jesus' questions that only God could reveal, then turning around and having to be rebuked by Jesus for making a false assumption. When considering the men Jesus chose as disciples, each had unique personalities, and they came from different backgrounds. Throughout Scripture God has used flawed mankind to bring about His purposes. He chose Gideon, whom the angel of the Lord found hiding in a wine press, to conquer the invading army with only a handful of men. He chose a reluctant evangelist to give a message of repentance to the barbaric Assyrian city of Nineveh. God's ways are certainly not our ways, which is certainly a relief!

In the book of Jeremiah (Chapter 18, verse 6) God tells Jeremiah to go to the potter's house where pots and jars are made for an object lesson for Israel saying, "O Israel, can't I do to you as this potter has done to his clay? As the clay is in the potter's hand, so are you in my hand." Repeatedly, Israel has rebelled against God, but when they are punished for their sin and disobedience, the Lord hears their cries and comes to their rescue. Jeremiah was sent as a prophet to warn Judah about judgment, destruction of Jerusalem, and exile into a foreign country if they did not repent and turn back to God. Jeremiah has been called the weeping prophet, because although he spoke out boldly to the people, warning them, he cared deeply for his people. He also suffered persecution and threats on his life for delivering the Lord's messages. But God uses those who are yielded to His will, weak or strong, educated or not. 

Paul, chosen by God to be an Apostle to the Gentiles, is an example of a man who suffered greatly as a follower of Christ. In 2 Corinthians 1:8 Paul says: "For we do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, of our trouble which came to us in Asia: that we were burdened beyond measure, above strength, so that we despaired even of life." Paul also spoke of his thorn in the flesh that he asked God three times to remove, but God would not, yet Paul continued to complete the work that God asked him to do. God calls anyone who is willing in heart, and He provides them with whatever is needed.

My only desire in life is to complete the work He has given for me to complete. I am a broken pot, and I've been slapped back on the potter's wheel for repair more times than I can count. God in His wondrous grace and mercy picks me up, all the broken pieces, and mends me back together. He will do the same for anyone who loves Him and is called to His service. 

Day 238 My Father's World

 

8/26/2026

 "Prayer is the way the life of God is nourished. Our Lord

nourished the life of God in Him by prayer;

He was continually in tact with His Father."

Oswald Chambers

 

As I gazed from my window looking towards the maple tree my daddy planted when I was a little girl, the old beloved hymn This is My Father's World" came to mind....

"This is my Father's world, and to my list'ning ears, all nature sings, and round me rings the music of the spheres. This is my Father's world, I rest me in the thought of rocks and trees, of skies and seas, His hand the wonders wrought.

This is my Father's world, the birds their carols raise; the morning light, the lily white declare their Maker's praise. This is my Father's world, He shines in all that's fair; in the rustling grass I hear Him pass, He speaks to me ev'rywhere.

This is my Father's world, O let me ne'er forget, that though the wrong seems oft so strong, God is the Ruler yet. This is my Father's world, the battle is not done; Jesus who died shall be satisfied, and earth and heaven be one."

How can all seem so quiet and peaceful when in other places half way across the world tragedy strikes? One does not have to look far not to see tragedy. Today a glacier broke off causing floods and catastrophic disaster in Nepal, wiping away homes and buildings, killing hundreds, and about 1,000 people are still unaccounted for at this report. Immediately my thoughts went to Smiti, a young girl who distributes Bibles in Nepal. Her photo has been on my bulletin board for many years as a reminder to pray for her. Several sources I trust have been reporting the news, bringing updates, but my heart is so heavy. Just watching the devastation as the iceberg broke off and caused the water to rise and burst down the waterways into the land, with a bridge of cars being hurled over as if they were feathers on a ledge. Buildings being decimated in seconds as the water hit so forcefully. It was horrifying to watch, but the people were experiencing it firsthand. 

Each days the earth cries out with earthquakes, tsunamis and hurricanes with flooding, forest fires and those set by the carelessness or violence of man. The savagery in the streets with lawlessness abounding, while hardly anyone really raises an eyebrow or thinks to try to do something about it or make a difference. I've exhausted this subject though, and I guess there's no one listening, especially the church.

A revival began tonight at a local fellowship. I was unable to attend due to prior commitments, but I will be following online. It is my prayer that a fire may be lit, and the flames fanned, and revival will be spread across Virginia and the entire nation. If our nation is going to be saved - brought back to God - it must begin with repentant hearts, beginning with each individual. James 4:17 exhorts us: "For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God; and if  it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?" 

Day 237 One Constant

 

8/25/2026

 "Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God,

believe also in Me."

John 14:1

 

In the beginning was the Word...Jesus! The Word was with God, and the Word - Jesus - is God. He chose to leave His throne in Heaven to come to dwell on earth. For God so loved the world, His Creation, man made in Their image (Let Us make man in Our image - Genesis 1:26) that He gave His own Son to rescue man from himself. Male and female created them that they may go into the earth and bring forth life, declaring His glory! Man failed. Man fell into sin, deceived by the enemy whose goal has always been to steal the hope of our salvation. 

I've been reading through the prophets who through the Word of the LORD pronounced judgment against Israel and Judah for their sins and rebellion against God. God's chosen people had denied Him and turned to the worship of pagan gods of the Assyrians who even sacrificed their own children to their gods. It's hard to believe that such a degree of evil existed then, and even more that it exists today. Man became so vile that God destroyed the world in the flood, except for Noah and his family. While Noah was building the ark, which took 100 years to build, man only scoffed at him. Yet even with the destruction of the world through the flood sin did not cease, because it was within the heart of man to make the same choices of living for God or for the world. 

As the prophets foretold of the Babylon invasion and the exile of His people to a foreign country, God continued to ask them to turn back to Him, and He would welcome them back, restoring all they had lost. He always offered them a way of escape, as He does for us today. They did not listen.

When God created Adam and Eve He gave them free will instructing them to eat of any trees except from The Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. He told them if they did, they would surely die - the death of separation from a relationship with Him as He created life to be. Adam chose to follow the foolish whim of Eve, choosing to heed the deception of the serpent rather than the mouth of the LORD, who Scriptures says walked with them in the garden. Today man clearly continues to ravenously devour any fruit that appeals to his selfish desires, his pursuits to follow the deception of this world rather than accept the love of a Savior.

Present cases point to the path of Satan's plan to destroy morality, justice and righteousness in a country whose motto has always been One Nation Under God, as our President reaffirmed on the celebration of our 250th year. Even as the words were coming from His mouth and from Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, many members of Congress and government were plotting further evil, choosing the path of evil over good. And so it continues on giving Satan free reign in their lives, spewing hatred and discord.

God threatened to destroy the evil city of Nineveh for their abominable sins - child sacrifice, sexual perversion, idolatry, pursuit of pleasure, love of possessions - if they did not repent and turn from their sins. Immediately the leadership and the people repented, and the city was saved. Only through true repentance, surrender to the Lord can true revival come. Only through continual spiritual growth and discipleship can it remain and the fire spread. The church must wake up, speak out, or they will remain complicit in their silence.

During the month of Elul each morning in Jerusalem the shofar is blown as a call to repentance leading up to the High Holy Day of Yom Kippur. This is unlike the daily five calls to worship of Islam now sounding on the streets of certain cities in America who have sold their birthright for a bowl of stew like Esau. This is happening in Canada and other nations in the West who claimed to follow Jesus. While the church remains silent.

Until recently, in Dearborn, Michigan, a pastor stood up in a City Council Meeting and one by one called each council member by name to denounce Islam. I heard no response except the apathetic voice of the chairman say there was no need to shout to be heard. 

Jesus is the only Way, the only Truth, the only Life, and salvation can be found in no other name. He remains faithful. He remains true. He remains constant.

Arise, shine, shake off the shackles, shout from the rooftops that there is no God except the LORD who will be exalted among the nations. 

Day 236 Best Use of Time

 

8/24/2026

"Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as
wise, making the best use of the time, because the days
are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what
the will of the Lord is." 

Ephesians 5:15-17

 

Thoughts of my mama brought tears very early this morning. I'm not certain why she was so heavily on my heart. She's been with Jesus since 2009, but this morning remembering her final days greatly distressed me. Wondering whether I could have done anything differently to help her, whether I should have demanded her medical treatment be different. Why today, why this morning, why first thing before the sun was barely rises to light the sky, I don't know. And it's not the anniversary of her passing or her birthday, but I just know that the grief was more than I could bear, so I cried, and I remembered her.

I realize that my parents are with Jesus, as are my grandparents and other loved ones I know who have gone on ahead. Perhaps the brevity of time has finally caught up with me with the recent death of another friend from high school. My younger son has been experiencing some serious health concerns, so our lives have had to adjust, but I am relieved to be able to be here and to be a support and a help. God knows everything, the end from the beginning, so we simply trust, as I have testified so many times. Perhaps these little trials are to see if I mean business with my words. It's easy to say we "trust God" but when the pressure is on, where do we turn?

Over the years I really haven't had anyone in my life to turn to who could really understand my complex thoughts. Words just are not enough, silence is better. I feel so much internally, so Jesus is the one I run to. These days I'm glad that He has taken me through the valleys, over rough terrain, ascending the mount only to slide down, my backsides full of goat heads and briars as I tumble, trip and fall. Going through the pain isn't fun, but in the process I learn, and I grow, so it has been worth it. I remember one time when my son, Daniel, fell backsides into a cactus - not a pleasant experience, especially pulling those thorns out one by one, very slowly. That's the way my life has felt sometimes, but I have to laugh at some of the places God has carried me through. And He's always been there with me. He never leaves me all alone.

The past two weeks have been very trying, but with a little introspection, the days are lighter, and I know the clarity I seek will come. I just celebrated my 76th birthday, so perhaps that has something to do with missing my parents and others I've lost along the way. Plus, I'm lonely for home. The home Jesus is preparing for me, a home with Him. My only desire is to meet Him, but first I have to complete the work God has put me here to do. When I listen to the accomplishments people have made in their lives, I wonder what, if anything, have I contributed to the Kingdom of God. Too many people have their eyes on what others are doing, spending too much time comparing themselves with others, and honestly I don't have the desire or time to waste trying to be anyone else except myself. So I take a step forward each day, making adjustments when needed when things divide my time. Too many alarms going off announcing this prayer meeting and that Bible study. Right now my time is better served sitting still, alarms off, focusing on Him alone. Priorities adjusted!  

Day 235 This I Know

 

8/23/2026

"When I said, 'My foot is slipping,' 

Your unfailing love, Lord, supported me.

When anxiety was great within me, Your consolation 

brought me joy."

Psalm 94:18-19

 

Life can be a mixed bag of feelings and concerns. Sometimes I just have to sit and listen...or not listen...to whatever is being seen or heard. That probably doesn't make a lot of sense, but to me it does, so I will leave it as written. I'm not trying to be flowery in language or philosophical in meaning. I'm not even certain I'd know how to do either of those things, and if I did, it would probably be done poorly. Things are becoming very chaotic, confusion seems to be the by word for each day, as more and more garbage explodes from the internet in the way of news. It's a good thing I am not much in reading news. Honestly, what it called news is garbage and full of lies and distortions. Truth is hard to find and often hard to believe. Sad to say that for the most part journalists today or their CEO's have sold their souls to the devil and are doing the bidding of whoever has the largest purse strings. This has been my observation at least. Walter Cronkite and Dan Rather would not be pleased with their successors. Paul Harvey would probably say "I told you so!" 

But I can tell you what I do know, and I can tell you who is trustworthy and just. I can tell you about a life that is worth living. And I can even share with you how to live your best life, that is, if you're interested! If you're looking for Truth His Name is Jesus! 

 When Jesus was trying to tell His disciples about His death, they still did not get it. In John 14 He reassured them that although He was leaving them, He would return and take them to be with Him for eternity. He told them He was going to prepare a place for them, and as believers, He's doing the same for us. Thomas asked Jesus the way to where He was going, and Jesus responded in verse 6, "...I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me."

So many are confused, worried, and they don't know which way to turn. The church does not always have the answers to the questions they are asking, because they refuse to look at the larger picture, and they do not want to discuss Bible prophecy, especially the Revelation of Jesus Christ written by the Apostle John while he was on the island of Patmos. Many use the excuse that the book is too hard to understand, but the Apostle Paul, in his instructions to Timothy in 2 Timothy 3:16-17 clearly states: "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." Revelation 1:3 says  "Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written in it; for the time is near." 

As watchmen on the wall we are accountable for sounding alarms when danger is imminent. We can't force anyone to choose the right path. Just like salvation - freely given - but we cannot make the choice for someone else to believe that Jesus is who He says He is. That decision is solely in the hands of the individual. But I do believe the words of John 3:16-17: "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved." 

The best proof believers have that Jesus is who He says He is comes from the individual testimony of one who has experienced being "born again," as Jesus described in John 3 to Nicodemus, a Pharisee who came to see Jesus under the clock of night. It was hard for educated, religious people to believe what Jesus was sharing although He fulfilled the prophecies they read in synagogue daily. Their eyes and hearts were blinded from the truth. But I know Nicodemus understood, and he wanted to follow Jesus, but he had responsibilities, so his allegiance was divided. The call to follow Jesus is very simply in response to His words, "Follow Me."

"The entirety of Your word is truth, and every one of Your righteous judgments endures forever" (Psalm 119:160).

Pastor Jack Hibbs from Calvary Chapel Chino Hills in California was sharing from Proverbs 3:1-6 as his text for his message. Man desires wisdom, but he is often not willing to surrender his views and opinions for another's. Proverbs 3:5-6 is a Scripture that I share quite often, as it is the only true path to finding wisdom, wisdom that comes from God: "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths." Pastor Jack spoke of the Apostle Paul's journey as a believer sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and about all the trials he had to endure in following this path. But finally Paul could stand resolute in his faith, totally steadfast in what He believed and in his trust in God. I was excited to hear Pastor Jack share my Scripture, the one I cling to that is found in 2 Timothy 1:12 "For this reason I also suffer these things; nevertheless I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day." I have grasped hold to this Word from the LORD for as long as I can remember, knowing that I can depend on every word God has spoken to me in His Word, His infallible Word.

In a time when very little in this world's economy means very much, and we see and hear very little of what we are taught to believe or how to live our lives, we must stand fast and firm in our faith in God triumphing in the cross of Christ. This I know!  

Day 234 What is Required?

 

8/22/2026

"He who has an ear, let him hear what

the Spirit says to the churches."

Revelation 3:13

 

Today's Torah portion described some pretty stringent rules for living that may seem harsh to some, but there is always so much wisdom to be found in the Word of God. God is not a harsh dictator attempting to rule our lives, putting us in bondage, rather He's a loving Father, whom we can boldly approach. He is full of mercy and grace, forgiving our sins and providing a way to escape the consequences that sin brings not only to the one committing them but to those who are affected for many generations to follow. 

We are now in the month of Elul on the Jewish calendar, a time of preparation and excitement, but also a period of deep introspection and repentance, leading up to the High Holy Days of Rosh Hashana (the Jewish New Year), Yom Kippur (The Day of Atonement), and the Feast of Tabernacles. In the Scripture portion for today Moses is reminding the children of Israel of the laws God has given them governing their relationships with each other and how to avoid conflicts and shame. It begins in the 22nd chapter of Deuteronomy discussing care of each others' livestock and belongings, just as if they were our own. When the Pharisees asked Jesus which commandment was the greatest, in Matthew 22:37-40, He replied: "'You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.' This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets."

Moses reminded the people of this in Deuteronomy 6:4-9 with a further command to teach them to their children: "Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one! You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates."

In reviewing the Scripture readings for today and what is expected from people who are commanded to love one another, then appropriate behavior should be expected in dealing with one another. If we followed God's guidelines, we would live as our brother's keeper, and in living so, life would be much better, plus we wouldn't find ourselves in the mess we find ourselves in our world today. In Micah 6:8 God tells us what He expects of us: "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?" 

In Deuteronomy 21:18-21 the discussion of how to deal with a rebellious son has some pretty harsh consequences, because sin and rebellion cannot be allowed and must be purged permanently from the camp. A thorough study of Scripture details how God deals with those in rebellion and failure to turn from sin. Of course today when we consider how we, as parents, are to respond to disobedience and willful stubbornness, parents would not handle the problem by death by stoning, but the scriptures are clear that in continuing to allow such behavior to continue makes one complicit with the sin and just as guilty. I know that I have had questions regarding how much assistance to provide when a good deed is followed by disrespect. I have asked myself and God "When is enough, enough?" To continue to help someone who responds ungratefully would be enabling bad behavior. Disrespect is wrong and should never be tolerated. God in His mercy, grace, and love wants us to remove evil from our homes, because as Christians we are committed to love one another as Christ loves us. Also, as leaders, our homes must be in order. Scripture provides sound counsel to guide our lives and relationships thus bringing glory and honor to His Name. 

The rule should always be to "Do the right thing!" Imagine the world if we followed that rule!  

Day 233 An End to My Adventure

 

8/21/2026

"I went to the woods because I wished to live deliberately,..."

Walden by Henry David Thoreau 

 

O, how I remember my college days when I was introduced to American and European literature. I particularly loved Henry David Thoreau, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Leo Tolstoy, the Bronte sisters, Jane Austen, and so, so many wonderful writers. I've often admitted that as a youngster I could never read enough - always off on some mental journey. I definitely was a dreamer! And, as I have also mentioned previously in my catalog of memories, I was known as an adventurer, a pioneer spirit, by my husband's  relatives, because I'd decide to get in the car and take a trip on a whim or a moment's notice...or so it seemed to many. I prefer to think I planned a bit, especially when my three little ones were in tow. I was not foolhardy when it came to making certain that someone new my determine route for the day, and about when and where I planned to stop for the evening. When the children were very young, I was super guarded when it came to their welfare. We've been to quite a few large zoos in our time, and I tried to make certain that the children were well read. 

I've been feeling a little restless recently, as it's been almost five years since I moved back to Virginia abandoning my beloved Northern New Mexico and my favorite hideaways. I particularly loved to escape to Sipapu, a small ski and summer resort hidden away in the back woods near Taos on a road leading to Mora, but it is my hope to stop by there the next time I do make it back to New Mexico to ask about working seasonally. I have dreams to upscale their gift shop, but we all have ideas! It would be nice to start using my gifts again, but then I imagine in a way I am with writing daily. Guess we'll see what comes of it!

I decided to take a short adventure, not far from home, for a couple of days, but alas, although I did make it out of the house eventually, after several delays, staying overnight in my determined destination, I did not plan well in advance what I may need. My diet is not like others, as I have some dietary restrictions, so I ended up not feeling too well and decided that one night away was more than enough. Besides which I had not done my investigation for lodging very well, and the place I stayed was not quite as I was led to believe. Still, although in not the best condition, the room was clean, and I had all I needed pretty much. The manager was very kind and available, and the area was picturesque country farming land and very quiet and peaceful. I believe an Amish farm was located just across the road, as there were "Share the Road" signs with a horse and buggy pictured on it. The roads I traveled were narrow, rolling, with lush green forests typical of Virginia. As I sit here now, looking out my window at home I see the green field that lies between my neighbor's home and mine,freshly cut and nestled next to my lawn. It's been raining gently, so the air is fresh, the humidity is lower, and the breeze is welcomed. The forest across the way is very lush and green, but mostly I love my stately old maple tree and my dad's crepe myrtles. Beautiful beyond description!

The rain is gently falling with a slight, gentle breeze. The close of another day, another adventure. 

Day 232 Oil and Vinegar Days

 

8/20/2026

 "See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise"

Galatians 5:15 

Grateful for bright morning skies, the warmth of the sun on my face, laughter as birds sing and dance on the tree boughs as they flit from one branch to the other, floating effortlessly across the air. I was awakened once more by the gentle nudge of the kitten's head against my face, urging me to get up and play. I tried to resist, but there's something so endearing about a kitten's purr and soft fur against my face that made her hard to resist. So many simple echoes of Your love for me early before day begins, Abba. Thank You, Lord, for Your creative wake up calls!

I didn't sleep well due to excruciating pain in my right hip and leg, one of the thorns in my flesh active once more. After exhausting the use of ice, stretching, changing positions and exercising, I finally reached for the heating pad. It had been so terribly hot without an air conditioner, but the fan kept the worst of the heat from the heating pad assisting in its purpose. Finally I was able to drift off to sleep with some relief, but it was interrupted by my morning visitor, intent once more on getting me up and moving, oblivious to my overnight struggles. But who can say anything harsh against such a loving wake up call, even after a painful and fitful night?! 

Before going to bed last night I listened to the weekly YouTube discussion with Todd Coconato and Mario Murillo which airs on Wednesday evenings at the same time An Hour with Jesus with Terry MacAlmon airs. I chose An Hour with Jesus, so I kept Mario for later. Mario is an evangelist, and his discussions generally cover tent crusades and topics of concern in the church, but tonight he was continuing an earlier conversation about false prophets. I must say that the information really opened my eyes a little wider with regard to the things happening in the church. It's bad enough when news of what's going on in the culture or in the political scene turns our stomachs sour, and although God is exposing and cleansing the church, what I heard last night was immensely disturbing. As an intercessor I am aware of many things, but I am not one who scrolls or listens to YouTube videos or podcasts unless I have a reason to do so. My time is better spent "Sticking to the Book" as Billy Graham warned, so I may be aware of evil in this world, but I don't need to read about it. Pray, yes, but in secret.

You may recall that I have been studying the book of Ezekiel, and God is warning about the evil that has caused His anger to boil over and lead to the total destruction of Israel and Judah. God's graphic description of the sinful and evil acts of Israel pales in comparison to certain things I have heard this week in the selective news that I choose to read. Lately, as the prophetic clock ticks faster, the enemy has been sharpening his talons for a deeper grasp, ensnaring the unwary or the extremely proud. Some things haven't changed from the beginning of Creation when the serpent tempted Eve. I am generally very cautious about what I post on my Facebook page, as I try to seek the counsel and wisdom of Holy Spirit before posting any content on my "podium," as I call it, but some things must be said. The Apostle Paul, who was called by God to take the Gospel to the nations, to the Gentile nations, warned Timothy of the impending threats to come and of those who would turn from the truth. Over the years scandals have been exposed, with a quick slice to the jugular. I found it interesting even decades ago when scandal happened in the church that some received a pat on the hand, while others were cast out on their ears, depending on who committed the sin. Sometimes people convicted by the power of Holy Spirit who can no longer bear the burden confessed their sin, yet they endured the shame and abandonment of the Christian church. In one instance, one such man found his way back, restored to the ministry, aided by the counsel of a gospel music ministry pastor, after the church threw the man out, and the music industry erased his name from existence. This is the way it should be done, as we all sin and fall short of God's glory...every day! Paul speaks of restoration of a fallen brother or sister in Christ in Galatians 6:1. In 1 Corinthians 10:12 Paul warns the church to take heed lest they too fall into temptation that leads to sin. The enemy is very crafty, as I well know.

The phrase "oil and vinegar days" was used in a recent prayer meeting, but I did not catch the full context of how it was being used. My interpretation of this could be based on the use of the two ingredients in making salad dressing. I have never enjoyed the harsh smell of vinegar used as a cleaning agent by my mother when she cleaned windows. I avoid any use of the smelly, caustic concoction as much as possible, and I am not one who uses salad dressing on my salads...unless I am at Olive Gardens Restaurant enjoying their famous salad dressing. They have a very unique method of using olive oil and spices to offset the acute acidic effect of the vinegar producing a flavorful blend. I imagine if we can use this analogy of the acidic burning and sour pungent smell, an assault to the mucous membranes, of vinegar and liken it to the sinful nature of man, then look at olive oil as the purifying, soothing quality it adds, we can get an idea of the use of this phrase "oil and vinegar days," as the days we are now living.

When I searched to see if the phrase was used in Biblical terms, I was reminded that vinegar was used in the gall of wine and vinegar provided to Jesus by the soldier when He was suffering on the cross. Oil has been used to refer to Holy Spirit anointing. One commentator said vinegar represented truth while oil was a metaphor for love. This reminds me of the scripture found in 1 Peter 4:8: "And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity (love) shall cover the multitude of sins." James 2:13 says: "For judgment is without mercy to the one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment." I'll leave it to the reader for further consideration, but we must always be mindful to consider the context in which scripture is used in the Bible. It is the inspired Word of God, and sadly, many times it is used totally out of context in order to accommodate a person's thoughts or behavior. It has become very commonplace these days, so please be wary of falling into the same trap the devil used on Eve in the Garden, and when he attempted to use with Jesus in the wilderness when He was led by the Spirit to be tempted. Satan knows scripture, and he knows how to twist it, but our response should be as Jesus when He answered "It is written...!" (Matthew 4:4-6)

These are indeed perilous days, as Jesus warned. May we walk circumspectly with wisdom, heeding the warnings lest we too fall.