Day 19 Honoring Martin Luther King, Jr.

 

1/19/2026 

"Use me, God. Show me how to take who I am,

who I want to be, and what I can do, and use it for a

purpose greater than myself."

Martin Luther King, Jr.

 

Today we observe Martin Luther King, Jr. who was assassinated in 1968 while standing on a hotel balcony in Memphis, Tennessee where he was to lead a protest march supporting the city garbage workers. I was a senior in high school that year, and I followed his life's work for years prior to his death. His death was a terrible blow to me, and it has followed me through the years. I still listen to his speeches, and his wonderful "I Have a Dream" speech continues to touch my heart. One day I'll meet him in glory, and I am anxious for that day.

I was reading his biography on the Nobel Peace Prize web, and it stated: 

"At the age of thirty-five, Martin Luther King, Jr., was the youngest man to have received the Nobel Peace Prize. When notified of his selection, he announced that he would turn over the prize money of $54,123 to the furtherance of the civil rights movement." 

He was a Baptist preacher, and an American civil rights activist and leader in the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. He had a distinguished academic record, but he remained a humble man. He cared deeply for people, and I admire him greatly. 

 

 

He was a man of conviction who wasn't afraid to speak the truth and passionately stand up for the rights of others. When I think about all the injustices in our world now, the ones that are true and just, not ones being propagated in order to cause chaos and breed hatred and distrust, poisoning the minds of young people who are searching for truth and authenticity in a hate-filled, media-driven barrage of untruths and malicious behavior, I never thought I would ever see America reduced to what I am seeing today. Fortunately we have a President who is working to restore dignity and safety and restoration to our nation, and I think if Dr. King was still alive today, he would appreciate our leaders who are working so hard to share the truth and expose the lies that have been guiding people way too long. Perhaps he would be able to awaken the sleeping church, but he was trying to do that when he was alive and actively speaking up for righteousness and justice. Sadly the church is hard to wake up and harder still to speak up. But, now is the time to draw the line in the sand. Jesus did, and the naysayers walked away. May we walk in His example today. 

 

 

Day 18 Get into the Boat

 

1/18/2026

"Launch out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch."

Luke 5:4

 

Today Pastor Greg was sharing about Peter's first encounter with Jesus at the Lake of Gennesaret. Peter was returning from fishing all night, and he was exhausted and frustrated, because he had not caught a single fish. This is how he earned his living, so I can imagine how much this weighed on his mind as the bread winner, and he was responsible to pay taxes to Caesar. Jesus had been teaching the people who had gathered by the sea, and He asked Peter if he could get into his boat to continue teaching. I loved this scene in the series The Chosen, because Peter's obvious displeasure about the situation was obvious, however, he did allow Jesus to get into his boat. The account in the Gospel of Luke did not mention Peter's brother, Andrew, as being present, but he did mention James and John, sons of Zebedee. I mention Andrew, Peter's brother, because he was the one who told Peter about Jesus in the first place. Andrew was a disciple of John the Baptist who was present when Jesus came to be baptized. Andrew was also a fisherman, so he was probably there. Jesus told Peter to launch out a little way and drop his nets. Peter told Jesus he'd been fishing all night and hadn't caught anything. Peter, whose livelihood was fishing knew the waters, nonetheless, He did as Jesus asked. That's when he got the catch of fish he wasn't expecting. Too many for one net, but Jesus did say "let down your nets," so when his net could not contain all the fish, he called for James and John. When Peter realized who Jesus was, he fell to his knees saying "Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord!" (Luke 5:8). Jesus told him not to be afraid, and then he called Peter, James, and John to be "fishers of men." 

There was another time when Jesus asked His disciples to get into a boat and cross over the Sea of Galilee to the other side. While Jesus was sleeping in the bottom of the boat a storm came up, and the disciples feared they would be drowned as the waves were violent, and the boat was filling with water. So they decided to arouse Jesus from His sleep out of panic for their lives. Jesus sat up, spoke to the winds, and they obeyed, the sea quieting down (Luke 8:22-25). This astonished the disciples who wondered who He was that even the wind and the seas obeyed Him. Jesus asked them why they had such little faith. After all they had been with Him and witnessed many miracles that same day, even the raising of the widow of Nain's son who was being carried out of the city in a funeral procession (Luke 7:11-17). Jesus had compassion on her sensing that her only son had died, and she had no means of support as a widow. So He told the man to rise, and he did, causing fear in the people who witnessed it. Then they gave praise and glory to God! 

After the feeding of the 5,000 found in John 6, the crowds were pressing in on Jesus, so He separated Himself to go to the mountainside to pray, while the disciples got into the boat to cross over to Capernaum. During the night a storm blew up, and the disciples were rowing against the torrent, frightened for their lives. When Jesus sees them stuck out in the middle of the storm, He walks on the water to get over to help them. The sight of Him frightened them, as they thought He was a ghost. When he got closer, He told them not to fear that it was Him, and Peter asked Jesus to call to him. Jesus did, telling Peter to keep his eyes on Him. At first Peter did, but later Peter sunk when he looked down. We are always told "Don't look down!" but Peter did and down he went, until Jesus pulled him up, and they got into the boat, the storm settling down.

Pastor Greg's approach to this lesson was not the same as my focus here. He mentioned the first story from Luke 5 and the net overflowing with fish, and he looked at instances where the three apostles were included and the others left outside. He suggested that perhaps it was because of the three's ability to either put their foot in their mouth, like Peter, or perhaps it had something to do with the Sons of Thunder, as Jesus named John and James, the sons of Zebedee, who had quick tempers. We can only consider why these three were always in the "inner circle," as in the transfiguration, the rising of Jairus' daughter from the dead, and in the Garden of Gethsemane when Jesus prayed asking the cup to be removed. I am considering their direction to "get into the boat, and go to the other side," and how it relates to our obedience.

Pastor Greg did ask if there was a time when God asked us to do something, and we didn't do it, or we hesitated. It's happened to me. I remember one time when I was a young mother, getting signatures from neighbors to stand for the Sanctity of Human Life, and a Christian refused to sign citing all kinds of statements that were not Biblical. I could take the non-Christian abuse, but this my young heart never thought possible. So I ran home, crying, telling God I wasn't going back out. I was given a vision of me hanging on to the doorknob, with a huge hand from heaven trying to pull me free. He wasn't cruel, nor did He tug, just a gentle nudge to let go, assuring me that He would go with me. I can't remember whether I went back out, but I'm pretty sure I did. I also had a similar time when I was distressed over something, and God gave me another vision of me as a child on my belly on the floor, kicking and screaming, and His finger was trying to still my fears by a giant finger against the middle of my back. I will never forget the Lord's insistence that I finish the job. My only thought as to why He chose me for these tasks is the same one I think every time He opens a door of opportunity: "But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him." (1 Corinthians 1:27-27). 

God wants our obedience. When I was waiting for a concrete answer about moving back home to Virginia after 35 years in New Mexico where my life had taken off finally, and I was living well, I need to make certain that He was the one saying to return, not me. After my divorce I never bought a home, as I was busy surviving, picking up the pieces, and it didn't seem to be a big deal. I was helping my daughter who was on disability, and I was working taking things as they came, and I enjoyed the home where I lived and my landlords and neighbors. I owned my own car, and I had a few possessions, second hand, but functional. I was content. After my daddy died, the home in Virginia was owned by me and my two siblings, and they wanted me to come home. About that time things began to change in New Mexico, and gradually over a period of years, I felt it was time to go home. I needed a home, and I already owned a third of one. Everything fell into place, but I wanted to make certain it was God's timing, and it just wasn't mine. Confirmation came in a text message from a friend who knew nothing of what I was doing, but the message said that God wanted me to "get into the boat, and go to the other side." The other side would be almost 2,000 miles driving, not by boat, but I got the message, and it became increasingly clearer by day, until on October 26, 2021 I ended up in Virginia. And so it continues. Sadly, I have not been able to return to New Mexico to visit, but hopefully, things will turn around this year, and I will be able to do so. Often obedience comes at a high price, but obedience is better than sacrifice per 1 Samuel 15:22. So I have learned to obey God. His is the best and only way. 

Day 17 Waiting

 

1/17/2026

 "But those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength;

they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run

and  not grow weary, they shall walk and not faint."

Isaiah 40:31

 

No one likes to wait when they are waiting for something to happen. This is just human nature. We are naturally impatient, and society and culture has taught us how to expect, and often demand, an answer right now! But then, that's not God's way, and as His children we have learned that lesson if we are walking with Him daily. His timing is not like ours. In fact scripture says: "But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day." (2 Peter 3:8). He also says, “'For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,' says the Lord. 'For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts.'" (Isaiah 55:8-9).

I just finished reading the story of Joseph and how his brothers old him into slavery, and he was taken to Egypt for a period of time, where he grew in strength and power, as God prepared him for the plans He had for Joseph. In the end Joseph could have blamed his brothers for doing this to him, and he could have become angry with God, as people often do. But, Joseph's response to his brothers was: "But as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive." (Genesis 50:20). 

In beginning to read the story of how God prepared Moses for the next leg of the journey for the nation of Israel, he had a considerable waiting time himself. When Moses was born, the Pharaoh of Egypt was killing all the baby boys being born to the people of Israel, because he feared they were increasing so rapidly in numbers that they would become stronger than them. The midwives feared God, so they did not follow the king's demands to kill all the baby boys. Then later, when Moses was born, his mother, knowing that God had given her a special child, hid Moses away, and he was raised by one of Pharaoh's daughters. God is so good that Moses' mother was chosen to care for him, plus she was paid to do so. God's plans are certainly way above our finite reasoning. Later on, Moses flees Egypt after killing an Egyptian who was hurting a fellow Israelite, and he ends up on the backside of the desert tending sheep for 40 years. During this time God was preparing Moses for His special plan as deliverer of His chosen people from Egypt. And as we know from history, this lasted another 40 years as they had to wander in the wilderness, learning another valuable lesson in trusting God's plan. 

I have been waiting for some answers recently, and today no matter which way I turned, what scriptures or devotional I read, even in my Shabbat sermon, the message for me was the same - Isaiah 40:31, as noted above, to wait on the Lord. This same message, once I thought about is the correct answer for a prayer request I recently received that I have been praying about for another. I knew there was something I was missing, and at just the right time, God's special and unique timing, the answer springs up not once, but thrice! He is so faithful to us. I even found the following word on my calendar from E. M. Bounds:

 "God is always within call, it is true; His ear is ever attentive to the cry of His child, but we can never get to know Him if we use the vehicle of prayer as we use the telephone - for a few words of hurried conversation. Intimacy requires development. We can never know God as it is our privilege to know Him by brief repetitions that are requests for personal favors and nothing more. That is not the way in which we can come into communication with heaven's King." 

God is never far away, and as this quotation says, He is always within earshot. We are the ones who fail to take the time to sit quietly, spend the time waiting, and we do not listen for His response. Sometimes it takes a while. As I mentioned, I'm waiting for an answer to some questions, and it's been over a month, but during that time I have watched Him and listened to Him in the prayer meetings I attend, the messages I listen to, and the scriptures I read, and I am hearing His voice, feeling His Presence, as I wait for specific instructions and answers. My job is to trust Him. So I will.

Day 16 Imitate Christ

 

1/16/2026

"Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ."

1 Corinthians 11:1

 

There will always be someone who tells you there's a better way, or a new way, but there's only Christ's way. As the days grow shorter and shorter, nearer and nearer, there are so many tell tale signs of the imminent return of Jesus. That certainty of scriptural truth makes many people anxious, afraid, and others feel it is not going to happen anytime soon, so why be concerned. Others think everything is hype and lies, because that's what the enemy wants us to believe. That philosophy dates all the way back to the Garden of Eden when the "snake" told Eve that God didn't really mean they would die, and yet people die every day. The length of a person's life was rather long back in early Biblical days as scripture reports that  Methuselah lived to be 969 years, Noah 950 years, and Adam, 930 years. My oldest living client was 106, but there was one 116 years of age. The health of my client was good physically with the exception of poor vision and hearing. But these examples are extremely rare, but then a deeper study may prove that more such exceptions exist.  We all dream of a long, good life, I imagine. As for me I dream of a life well lived, and I definitely want to accomplish the purpose God put me here on earth to do. Aside from the purpose we all have which is to bring Him glory, honor, and praise.

Jesus warned us in scripture, as did Peter and Paul, that men would have itching ears desiring to hear and believe only what they feel is really truth. Jesus warned that in the last days many would come in His Name claiming to be Christ. We certainly saw this when Charles Manson made the statement that he was Christ and Satan, or perhaps he merely inferred it; nevertheless, there have been others like Jim Jones who led many gullible people to the slaughter. False shepherds, according to the prophet Jeremiah, who care more about building their egos than feeding and tending the flock, are leading many to go astray, as sheep without a caring shepherd will do. 

Each day brings an interesting change. The scripture says that the gift of speaking in tongues is given by Holy Spirit. The Apostle Paul speaks of this gift that he himself was given. We know that on the day of Pentecost 50 days after Jesus ascended to Heaven, that all in the upper room were filled with the Spirit and spoke in tongues. After that many believed, because they heard the gospel preached in their own language. Everything God does is done decently and in order, because He is not a God of confusion. Recently someone sent me a video of a sermon, and when it came on there was a woman speaking unintelligible  words to a group of people, which they would then repeat. This process was repeated over and over. That was when I texted my friend to ask if this woman was teaching others to speak in tongues, and she said "yes, and it's perfectly normal." I did not respond, as the Bible does not teach this technique. In fact there is not a technique. It is a gift given by Holy Spirit. This doesn't surprise me, really, because over the years I have noticed many troubling ways of teaching that do not follow a Biblical order. I have learned to stick to the book, which as many may recall, is what Billy Graham adamantly recommended.

When Paul wrote to the church in Corinth it was in response to a message he had received about divisions in the church. It seems that members were squabbling over whose baptism was better, or so it sounds. One would say "I am of Paul," another "I am of Apollos," or "I am of Cephas," or "I am of Christ."  Paul's response was very clear: "Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Or were you baptized in the name of Paul?" (1 Corinthians 1:12-13). This isn't the first time that Paul would have to settle disputes in the churches, and all through the ages there's always someone introducing a new idea or another step into the already complete gospel of Jesus Christ. Romans 10:13 makes things very simple when it comes to the truth about the Gospel: "For whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved." I think that Paul put it quite nicely in 1 Corinthians 2:2, and I am of the same opinion: "For I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified."

One thing the Lord has spoken directly to my heart over and over in recent days, and actually years ago, and that is to keep my eyes on Him, only Him. We are told in Galatians 2:20, "I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me." Colossians 3:16-17 adds: "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him."

Much confusion has crept into the church especially regarding Israel and God's end time plans. He has never abandoned His chosen people, and He never would. But, as I have reminded many times, we who believe in the message of Jesus Christ and have accepted God's precious gift of salvation through Jesus, His Son, are now Abraham's children also. We have been grafted into the family and God is making us One New Man. We are to stand with Israel and pray for her, but many are confused about this important fact. I will speak of this another time.

Paul tells us to imitate Christ, be clothed in Him, because there's a world of people who do not know Him yet as Savior and Lord, and we are to be His workmanship. Follow His example, and complete His mandate to go into all the world and make disciples. To do that we have to know what the scriptures teach us, how Jesus taught us.

How do we respond to others? Paul puts it nicely in Colossians 4:2-6:

"Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving; meanwhile praying also for us, that God would open to us a door for the word, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in chains, that I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak. Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time. Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one."

In order to do this, we must know the Word of God and the teachings of Christ. We must have a daily time along with Christ, sitting at His feet, reading and studying His word, and learning to truly know Him by spending quality time listening for His voice. This is the abundant life that gives peace that transcends all understanding. 

Day 15 Search Me

 

1/15/2026

 "Search me, O God, and know my heart;

try me, and know my thoughts; and

see if there is any wicked way in me and

lead me in the way everlasting."

Psalm 139:23-24

 

Today marks Day 12 of our 21 days of prayer for repentance and seeking God for His mercy and grace during this time of great need in our nation and our world, beginning with self-examining our own lives before God. Today I received an invitation to join a group in Australia for prayer with the focus on abortion. Other pastors, ministries, and countries are following this leading from Holy Spirit. Today I heard Jack Hibbs speaking about the persecuted Christians in Africa who have been massacred for their belief in Christ. He said that every Sunday morning, regardless of the weather, they get dressed in their best clothes, and some have to walk many miles to church, knowing that they could be killed at any moment, just as other villages have been invaded by jihadist terrorists in several villages, perhaps even their own previously. Regardless of what they may or may not have suffered, they go, because they are committed to Jesus Christ who gave Himself for them, and they fully surrender their lives to His service. I have written about the persecuted church myself, many times, about how easily they forgive those who have harmed them, left them for dead, after pillaging their villages, burning their homes, and murdering their family members right before their eyes. They have nothing in the way of earthly goods, and yet, they risk their lives to attend church services and to spread the gospel to others. Jesus said those who are last in men's eyes are first in the Kingdom of God. The people of Africa and other persecuted countries truly know how to love and glory and honor to God for their salvation. And they are the first to rally to the cause of others who are in need. We have so much to learn from them.

 Tonight in my online Harvest Group we studied "God's Purpose for You: A Day in the Life of Jesus," based on our message shared by Pastor Jonathan Laurie on Sunday. In the study we looked at our purpose or reason for being based on Jesus as our example. Hebrews 4:15 says, "For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin." God sent Jesus, His only begotten Son into our sinful world to ransom us from death and an eternity in hell. God so desired to have fellowship with us that He made a way through Jesus. God gave each of us a plan for our lives that works with others in the body of Christ to fulfill His mission on this earth. His mission is that all men come to the saving knowledge of God through Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:11 says, "But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you." Because of Christ's Spirit dwelling within us, we have the power and the authority through His Name to complete the mission which is stated clearly in Matthew 28:19-20: "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you, and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age."

Following Christ, surrendering to God's will, brings opposition just as it did for Jesus. After being baptized by John the Baptist, the Holy Spirit descended upon Jesus, and "a voice came from heaven which said, 'You are My beloved Son; in You I am well pleased.'" (Luke 3:22). Immediately following this Holy Spirit led Jesus into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil (Luke 4:1-15). After defeating the devil in the wilderness, overcoming temptation, Jesus began His ministry by returning to Galilee under the power and authority of Holy Spirit where He taught in synagogues. When He went to Nazareth, His home town, He announced who He was and His mission when He read the scroll of Isaiah in the synagogue, announcing that He was the Messiah (Luke 4:18-19). The people recognized that He spoke with authority, but knowing He was the son of a carpenter, did not recognize His identify or receive Him as the Messiah, so they accused Him of blasphemy and tried to throw Jesus over a cliff. But Jesus said "Not happening today!" and He walked right past them, setting off to preach in Capernaum. Jesus didn't skip a beat, but He continued on in His mission, sent by God to the lost sheep of Israel. Over the years of His ministry He met with much opposition, but He continued with God's plan, obeying His Father's voice and not man's right up to His death on the cross. So we must be faithful to continue in His example.

In our walk we will face opposition, often from those you least expect it. I know that as I live out my purpose God has for me I have openly, and behind my back, faced cruel and unkind remarks. I have even been questioned by my own children whom I taught faith in Christ from birth. I was not always a perfect example, as I made many mistakes along the way, but my children witnessed my steadfast faith and commitment to follow Him and serve Him, surrendering my will to His in obedience. For me, there is no other life that satisfies. I was listening to Russell Brand giving his testimony on Turning Point USA America Fest, and he shared that he had tried every lifestyle including sex, drugs, alcohol, parties, and fame with all the glamour and "things" it offers, but he found that he was still empty and void of joy. Now, he has found new life in Christ, and he openly shares his faith with everyone. He can preach a sermon with the best of them, and his life has been transformed. And before he witnesses, he always drops to his knees in prayer, seeking the face of God. It is so wonderful to see famous people coming to Christ, sharing their testimonies, especially with the younger generation who are so hungry for more of God. Truly God is moving in our youth, especially in the young men, who will be the leaders of their families. Praise God for His marvelous work!

At this time it is so important to live our lives wholly for God and in holiness. This is why it is so important that we make it a daily habit of prayer, asking Holy Spirit to examine our hearts, fill us fresh with His Spirit, and guard our speech and habits. We are to be examples of Christ before a lost world, and they are watching us to see if we are sincere - if we are doing the Word and not just speaking it! Selah.

"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God" (Romans 12:1-2)

Day 14 Call to Prayer and Repentance

 

1/14/2026

"In prayer the Church has received power to rule

the world. The Church is always the little flock.

But if it would stay together on its knees, it would 

dominate world politics - from the prayer room.

O Hallesby

"All continued with one accord in prayer."

Acts 1:14

 

Yesterday I received three messages from Franklin Graham about the call for America to pray at 12 noon January 14 to repent for the Church, our nation, and all the events rapidly happening today. This evening I heard Jack Hibbs, who had joined with Franklin Graham in this call to prayer, say that this will be a regular Wednesday call to repentance. Today when the alarm was sounding I was out with my sister running errands, but while she drove, I prayed. No matter where we are or what we're doing, we can always pray. Many times I have written about the subject of repentance of the church for being so involved with their own agenda that they fail to realize the importance of world events and the need to educate the people. The church has wrongly believed that politics has no place in the church; however, it is not politics. It is government. It becomes politics when human ambitions for power are put into play. Yes, they are involved, but the Word says that the government is upon the shoulders of Jesus. Jesus says He will build His church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. Just as Replacement Theology is being taught from the pulpit, so is this apathetic approach to what is happening in our nation and world, as everything is prophetically significant. People must be ready to meet Jesus when He returns. He does not want a halfhearted gospel message. He wants the whole counsel of God taught. And please, do not get offended and say "what about separation of church and state?" The First Amendment reads "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion." What this means is that government is prevented from interfering with religious practices. Thomas Jefferson called it a "wall of separation" preventing government from "creating a national church or favoring one religion, while protecting citizens' right to worship freely." When will people stop listening to what others say and read for themselves?! This refers to practically every opinion spoken today. No wonder in Revelation 2 and 3 when Jesus is speaking to the churches He told the church at Laodicea that they were lukewarm. Not a good place to be. The focus has to be on what God says in His Word. When walking this earth, Jesus always told anyone who questioned His motives that He only did what His Father said to do or to say. He was all about His Father's will. And so must we be about His business.

Our world is rapidly changing, and it will continue to do so. Right now I am participating in a Daniel Fast which lasts for 21 days, and I noticed today that a local church, the one I am joining in this fast for prayer and repentance, is fasting social media. I wish I could stay clear of emails, zoom calls and every bit of it, but sadly I have to keep in the loop, because I am involved with the calls to Israel, and I have an online group event weekly. Otherwise, I'd love to forego glimpsing controversy and opinions for an extended time. For quite some time, however, I have been doing a half-fast of deleting repetitive emails for prayer updates. I have been gleaning and deleting. I read only what I need to read, as I usually know things before the news. I also avoid secular news, and I would not be caught watching a certain talk show which is part of the problem of causing chaos, confusion, anger, and people jumping to wrong conclusions without checking the facts. Our world seems to be going down the tubes, and no one wants to talk and fewer to listen. This extends to the church.

I know that it may seem as if I am being harsh and judgmental, but it is not so. I am begging for fellow believers in Christ to wake up and pay attention. I attempt to call attention to the truth of the Word, as we don't have any time to waste. Things are heating up, and time is limited. I truly feel that way. The only person I am judging is myself, and I repent for not standing up and speaking up much earlier. I have been speaking out about abortion since I was in my 20's, and I have always loved missions and wanted to be a foreign missionary myself. But as the Lord spoke so clearly to me recently, He placed me here in the United States and in Virginia for a reason. While it has always been my desire to live and minister in Africa, and although I'd love to be in Israel, this is my mission field for now, for this time. Our State has much to repent about, abortion being number one. It breaks my heart to hear that 62% of the citizens think it is just fine to kill babies. What ever happened to human dignity and respect for life. I don't understand it. I never will. 

In sharing it is my hope that whoever reads this post will hear what I am saying and pray for your own nation or country, your church, and your family. We have not only lost our First Love, but we have turned our backs on God. It is time to repent and pray for revival and reformation. Even so, Lord, come quickly. 

Day 13 What's Up Today

 

1/13/2026

"One can learn more from life's trials

than from its triumphs."

Daily Walk

 

Wow! Is this a word right when I needed to see it! This morning, as I was sitting in my rocking chair, praying about recent events, not really certain what to do about anything, I cried out to the Lord, using those same words, "I don't know what to do, Lord. Please help me." Right then, my phone rang in response to my plea to God! I don't think His answer could have been any clearer, and honestly, I wasn't expecting it to happen like that or that quickly. I've been laboring over some health issues for many weeks, not doubting God's ability to hear me or answer. But for some reason, I had to learn another lesson in humility. Sometimes I wonder if my survival instincts have been a hindrance. Now things had become so bad that I needed to seek help, and God answered. I've had to be so strong all my life for others, cleaning up the messes of life, that I wonder sometimes if I trusted in what I had learned and survived, more than on Him. Lately, I've gotten to a place emotionally where I don't want to even try to do anything on my own anymore. I am desperately seeking Him all the time. He's given me a fine mind, but I've become tired from having to think and figure things out and not having anyone to lean on. God is reminding me that the only one I need to rely on is Him. For one day I'd just like to crawl up into His lap and be held awhile longer.

In looking at a study on Joseph's life, I can understand his desire to share his dreams with others, and I understand when others feel threatened or jealous about something I've said that was taken wrongly. The scripture translation suggested that Joseph may have been haughty minded when he shared with his brothers and his father, Jacob, the visions the Lord had given him. His brothers were already jealous about Jacob's favoritism and the coat of many colors he'd given to Joseph. His dreams were the last straw for them, and they began to hate him. No one ever stuffed me in a well and sold me to traders thankfully, but things have happened when I tried to share, and I shared in careful manner. Even when we do things in the right way, humbly and thoughtfully, it can be misunderstood. Poor Joseph ended up in prison in Egypt, but because of God's favor on his life, Joseph advanced in each area of his imprisonment. His dreams were for a reason, as they prophesied of what was to happen - of a coming famine in the land. His story is an amazing journey, and he ended up saving the lives of his father, brothers, and all the Jewish nation, as well as preparing Pharaoh for what was to come. This wisdom given by God through the interpretation of Pharaoh's dream earned Joseph a position in Egypt second to Pharaoh.

A question was posed in my Daily Walk overview: "Where are you experiencing the molding force of pressure today, and how are you reacting to it? Are you looking for the nearest exit? Or are you asking God to shape you into a vessel for greater service?" 

I had to chuckle at the "looking for the nearest exit" scenario, as I certainly have considered leaving more than once recently. But then, that's not the right response, but I wonder if I lost my car to keep me from running away? It's something to think about, even if God doesn't do things that way. But recent events and changes in my health as a result of the stress does make me think about things more closely. I do believe that things happen for a reason, and I know that we are constantly learning. As my son mentioned before, and I believe it is certainly true of each of us, we do not give God thanks as much as we should, as He is due all honor and glory and thanksgiving. I remain amazed that He doesn't give up on me, but He never will, and He never leaves any of us. He's true to His promise and covenants.

So we persevere, and we continue to keep our eyes fixed on the Author and Finisher of our faith. Today was hard day for me. I received some news about my health that I didn't want to hear, and there's more to come. In the meantime I have to find a way to leave things at the foot of the cross. And people. So much is going on in the world also, and as an intercessor my focus has to be clear and sharp. Jesus said things would happen, and they are, so there should be no surprises. I was given instructions several years ago, and I remind myself of it daily - "Keep your eyes on the Commander of the Armies of Heaven." So, that I will do, daily suiting up as per Ephesians 6:10-20 and covering the armor in prayer, taking my position on the wall. Will you join me?! 

Day 12 Just Thinkin'

 

1/12/2026

"Our faith in prayer can be no passing attitude that changes

with the wind or with our own feelings and circumstances;

it must be a fact that God hears and answers, that His

ear open to the cry of His children, and that the power to do what

is asked of Him is commensurate with His willingness."

E.M. Bounds

 

Life becomes more interesting with each passing day, and I am learning that God has His unique way of getting our attention. Strange, as I was writing those words, a friend was texting me, so I shared them with her. Maybe she needed to hear them also. Our job is to trust God, stand strong, growing in our faith. I think the best way for that is to share our faith and our stories. My story over the past month or so hasn't been too exciting, rather discouraging in many ways, plus now my health has been affected. It's nothing I haven't grappled with before, but the trial is stressful and painful. Still, in faith I stand knowing that God knows my needs, and He will make a way where there seems to be none. 

Each day I receive prayer requests from people I don't even know, but with whom I am acquainted through various other people or the church or churches, here, there, and yonder. Plus the intercessory prayer circles. Daily things are becoming more chaotic in our nation and across the world. Things are gearing up, and only God knows the outcome. It's not a time to fear, and it is definitely not a time to shirk our responsibility as Americans or as followers of Christ. Many times I've written and spoken about a time has come when we must draw a line in the sand, saying this is it! No further, devil! That time has come. Actually that time has been here, but I think even the casual observer is noticing things or seeing a bit more clearly these days. 

Today I was supposed to get a few things done, but I was too sick to leave the house. Remember, I've been without my own "wheels" since early December, so having to turn down a ride is serious business for me, as it's the only time I can get things done outside of the home. But my sister, bless her, showed me more grace, so we will do the needed errands on Wednesday, if all goes well. I'm blessed to have my sister living so closely to me. For years I lived in one State and she lived here. The 1200 miles between didn't make it easy to see each other, except when our parents were living. So, I'm glad that I have the opportunity to make up for lost time. My brother lives about two hours away, and although they are retired, their lives are busy, so I still haven't spent much time with him. Hopefully, that will change one day. Time is precious.

My high school graduation class will be getting together for our quarterly lunch in March. It seems so far away, and yet, Valentine's decorations and candy is already out. Time goes by so quickly, especially as we grow older. This week we said "see ya later" to two of our class members who passed on. I pray we'll see them again in glory, only God knows the heart. It seems as if we have lost several members of our class in recent years. That's another thing I wasn't expecting when I returned home. It certainly gives one pause to consider how we spend our lives, and it makes us appreciate others more.

My son was whistling this morning shortly after he got up. That's a good sign for the day. He struggles so much with depression, and it seems as if the doctors' answers for everything is another new pill. I live by some of my mama's old rules she taught me growing up that have served me well. One was when you are sick or feel down in the morning, get up, take a bath, get dressed, and get busy doing something. It has served me well. I even followed that golden rule when I was so sick with migraines that I couldn't stand the light, and I could hardly stand up on my feet from fainting. But, I knew I had to, especially when I got older and had children and a job. I mustered the courage and the strength from my faith and many prayers. God got me through all of it, and I know now that He will see me through anything that comes. I won't give up or in, I can't. It's not the way of faith and trust. It's okay to lie down for awhile, and it's okay to cry and throw up. After that has passed, then try again. God is so good, and He hears our cries. Scripture proves that over and over, as does my life.

Things may appear a little bleak today, but the sun will come up tomorrow on a brand new day. This one will end in gratitude, and tomorrow will begin the same way. All praise! 

Day 11 What is My Purpose?

 

1/11/2025

"Choice, not chance, determines your destiny."

Daily Walk

 

Life begins with empty pages until our first cognitive thought or impulse - the beating of our hearts. Yet, God says that He knew us before the foundation of the world. He actually considered everything about each of us. What we'd look like, the color of our eyes, hair, skin, and He hand selected our parents. Psalm 139 says that He knit us together in our mother's womb, fitting all our parts together while we were not even born. He even knew that the umbilical cord would be wrapped around my neck at birth, making delivery difficult for my mother. He has known every one of my days before there were any days, and He knew that I'd love Him and serve Him. He knew every wrong move I would make, how I would struggle for so many years. He knew and knows everything concerning me, and the amazing part is that He chose me for a special purpose, and He wrote about it in His book about me.

"For You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother's womb. I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; marvelous are Your works, and that my soul knows very well. My frame was not hidden from You, when I was made in secret, and skillfully wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed. And in Your book they all were written, the days fashioned for me, when as yet there were none of them." (Psalm 139:13-16).  

I've been reading about the call of Abraham to be the first Hebrew! God chose Abraham to become the father of a nation of people too numerous to count, like the sand in the desert. Abraham blindly followed when God said for him to go, leave his country and travel to a nation he did not know; then Isaac, his son, followed suit obeying God's directions. The stories of their lives are so incredible, and yet this is how God is. He made a covenant with Abraham, who then passed it on to Isaac, then Isaac to Jacob. Jacob becomes the father of the twelve tribes of Israel who enter into the Promised Land God had chosen for them. Each step of the way in the lives of these patriarchs was a deliberate act of obedience and a step of faith. And each step of the way God honored His covenant with them, keeping it through all the generations of those who loved Him. And He continues to do so today. It is too wonderful to imagine. God is serious about His plan for His chosen people.

But, it is also remarkable that Jesus made a way for non-Jewish people, Gentiles, like me, who has accepted His gift of salvation through Jesus to be grafted into the family and inherit the blessings. Never do we take the place of His chosen ones, but we can partake of His blessings. God planned that from the beginning also. Salvation comes through the Jewish nation and salvation has been offered to them first. This is an exciting time as more and more people are opening their eyes to the truth of the gospel, realizing that Messiah has already come and is coming again! What wonderful news to share. That's why we're here - to spread the Good News as Jesus said to His disciples before His ascension. 

"And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, 'All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.' Amen." (Matthew 28:18-20).

We have been placed here to first of all love the LORD our God with all our heart, our soul, our mind, and our strength. Next, we are to love others, esteeming them higher than ourselves. We are to be bold in sharing the gospel with everyone and to live our lives righteously, clothed in humility, showing the fruit of the Spirit in our lives, actions, words, and deeds. None of us are perfect, but as His followers, we are to emulate Christ. Paul the Apostle told the Corinthians to follow him as he followed Christ, and it is the same for us.

Besides that God has given us each spiritual gifts spoken of in 1 Corinthians 12, and we are called to be the "body of Christ" likened to our physical body with different parts, fitted together, functioning as a unit. Scientifically or medically speaking our human bodies are dependent on each part working together as one part, a network of parts working with the others. It's God's creative genius at work right before our eyes. One part is as necessary as another, which is compared to how we function in life, living our unique plan that God ordained that we should walk in. No one's job is more important than another one. But whatever we do, as God's workmanship we are to bring Him glory, honor, and praise in everything we do. That's our number one purpose - to love God and bring Him honor.  

 

Day 10 Here I Am, Lord

 

1/10/2026

 

As believers and followers of Jesus Christ we know that we are pilgrims passing through this world. Although we live in it, it is not our home, but we have hope through Jesus Christ of our eternal home. But while here, until He comes back or we are called on ahead, we must occupy until He comes. I was reading my devotional by Amir Tsarfati yesterday, and the title for the day was "Don't Seek to be the Majority." He mentioned Elijah, and the prophet of Baal showdown on Mount Carmel, and Elijah feeling outnumbered and disqualified to continue on. God assured him that there were 7,000 others who had not bowed their knees to Baal, and he was in no wise outnumbered or alone. Believers in Christ no longer seem to be a majority in this present age, as the devil is trying his best to cause all the mayhem he can, since he realizes his days are numbered, and he knows his fate. We are called to be different from others, to be shining lights in a dark world, so we each have our jobs to do wherever we are planted. 

I remember when I first began case management, I was working out of Las Vegas, New Mexico, and I was in a home speaking with a client. It's been so many years ago that I can't remember what I said exactly, but I do remember that my mannerisms were a shock to her. When a case manager goes into a home the person sometimes gets anxious, because we're there to assess their medical needs to determine how they can be helped with personal care or other services needed. I remember the lady saying, "You're not from around here, are you? No one acts like you do. Where are you from?" I laughed then, as I do now, remembering that day. I wasn't living in that city at that time, but I had for ten years previously, and my daughter was still living there. So, in essence, I was from there. Since that time, I have had similar responses from people, as has my daughter. I'm glad that people see the difference in our lives, as we do not shy from our love of Jesus. We are meant to be different, as Christ's ambassadors wherever we are, and I am grateful that people who have known me feel this way.

This isn't the only time I have been labeled as being different or being persecuted for my faith and the way I live my life. Once I was accused of saying some things I never thought much less said. It happened right after God had opened up a door into a new area of community service as a case manager/care coordinator for Medicaid services. The first three months of my employment I was put through a living torment, but eventually everyone quit, except me, including my accuser. Thankfully, I was the only one who had been trained previously in the requirements needed for the clients to obtain benefits, thus making the job much easier. So my perseverance during this time paid off, and God vindicated me from the lies said against me. My true character had proven itself. That was an extremely difficult time in my life, and I felt alone. I cried a river every night after work for three months, but God in His faithfulness delivered me. After that things became much better. There is much more to the story, but going through difficult patches can turn out for good, when we trust God. 

After that time I still had hurdles to jump, as we all do with swings in jobs, and in the health profession, things are always rapidly changing. I was older than most of my colleagues, so there were times when I was made to feel less than, but this never stood in my way of trying, and my work ethics proved to be higher than those of younger employees who wanted to do things the easy way. I have always been grateful that my parents taught me to always work hard, doing my best, plus the Bible said to do all things as unto the Lord, and that has always been my goal, and it has served me well. Still, I realize that I am somewhat of an anomaly from the normal person, because I'm a stranger passing through this world. While I'm here, it is my prayer and my strong desire to love well, work hard, and pass on not only good work ethnics, but pass on godly, moral practices. Ultimately, my desire is to lead others to Christ, so that we can sojourn together until we make our way to our heavenly, eternal home. What a joyous day that will be when we're finally home! Until then, here I am, Lord, use me!  

Day 9 Prayers for Unrest

 

1/9/2026 

"Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed,

for I am your God. I will strengthen you,

Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My

righteous right hand."

Isaiah 41:10

 

Fighting within and fighting without! The world seems to be imploding and exploding. I imagine this is enough to cause some to fear. But hasn't the motion picture industry readied the hearts and minds of so many already who fear an alien invasion or the catastrophic war of the worlds? Then there's the popular zombie apocalypse. Didn't Jesus saw something about birth pangs? 

The uprising in Iran at first sight seems to be terribly upsetting, but when one understands the history of the country they realize that the people are actually protesting against a terrorist regime that took over their country many years ago leading to a life of bondage and terror. What is happening has actually been foretold in scripture, along with other events that have happened in the Middle East. In 1979 there was a revolution in Iran, and the Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi was exiled after the death of his father, and the present Muslim jihad took over Iran, enslaving the people with Sharia Law. Prior to that the people were free to live in their Persian society. The Persians people are friends to Israel and are warm and receptive to all people generally speaking. They have grown tired of the hatred of the present jihadist leadership, and they want their country back. This is as simply as I can explain it, and I make not be completely accurate; however, Iran was originally a Persian society from the times of Cyrus, leader of Persia whom God used to rebuild the Temple and the walls of Jerusalem after the 70 years of exile. The Bible is so rich of how God used Cyrus, and it speaks of the prophetic significance. Our American President Trump has been called Cyrus of the modern era, and Biblically-speaking, it seems correct. Only time will tell as God's plan for the Sovereign nation of Israel plays out. I wish more people would educate themselves, especially pastors and teachers on the significance of all that is happening in our world today. Many times current events are swept under the rug or mention briefly in passing simply to set the church at ease by saying "but God is in control." While this true, God is in control, He expects us to do our part. It is nothing to be frightened about, unless, of course, someone has not given their heart and lives to Jesus Christ as Savior. Yes, terrible things happen to innocent people, but God knows the number of our days, and until He says it's our time, then we must trust Him. Time is growing very short for the imminent return of Messiah, and we must be ready. People need to know! 

In our global meeting we were updated by an Iranian spokesman regarding the situation in Iran. The people have been prisoners under Sharia Law, the women beaten in the streets for no reason, other than harassment. The price of food is so high that women have to go to extremes to put food on the table. There is no water in the country, and the air is poisoned and has been for a long time, another form of control. Hatred against the Jewish people has been pushed upon all people, and the Persian people love the people of Israel and want to be friends. These are only a few things, but much worse situations exist that the extremes bring one to tears. Suffice it to say that the demonstrations which were peaceful are for a good reason. Our response to this uprising is to pray for the people of Iran, for their freedom and safety. We also need to pray that the evil regime is brought down, so the people can live in peace. When this happens the others Middle Eastern countries may follow suit. Eventually, per scripture there will be the highway from Egypt and Assyria to Israel as mentioned prophetically in Isaiah 19. 

Besides what is happening in Iran, antisemitism is growing in Europe, but there has been some push back, thankfully. As for what is happening in America, only time will tell for New York City as a Muslim Democratic Socialist, as he refers to himself, has been voted in as Mayor of the city that has the highest number of Jewish citizens. Canada is another country to watch, but it is not simply Jewish citizens who are at risk, but Christians as well, especially since the new Prime Minister took office. Things are changing, and although we have a President who stands against this evil, incidents are rapidly increasing. It is way past time for people to speak up for righteousness. What are we waiting for? As citizens of America, a nation founded on Judaeo-Christian beliefs, we should not idly sit by and have our freedom removed. I don't understand how things could have gone so desperately wrong, but our nation has become lawless, immoral, depraved, and has lost their fear of God. Christians have lost their first love, and many like the church of Laodicea have become lukewarm. The Book of Revelation speaks of the seven churches where God addresses each one for correction. It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of an angry God. He is jealous for His people. It is time for us to repent and turn our lives back to God.

Day 8 Fresh Oil

 

1/8/2026

But you have exalted my horn like that of the wild ox; 

you have poured over me fresh oil.

Psalm 92:10

 

In the quietness of the morning I rested from the thoughts clouding my vision. I thought back over the past days, too much happening too soon, so totally unexpected, Lord, I need clarity of purpose. I've been faithfully trying to do all I am supposed to do to get my life back on the path, and I'm trying with all I have in me not to become distracted with the process. I'm behind in getting my thoughts on paper, because I'm so exhausted from having to do everything myself, or so it seems. I know You've made me strong, Abba, but how much more? How long? I don't mean to complain, but I never thought it would be this way. Although I know following You is not always easy...well, is it ever easy?! 

Thankfully, You hear my prayers when I'm grappling for answers, lying before You, waiting in my helpless state. I know full well that You'll answer, but the waiting and straining to hear Your still, small voice hurts. Not You too, turning a deaf ear to my cries. Forgive me for doubting or for expressing my feelings as such. I look up, and I see a familiar face on my screen - Jesus Image with a new song, Give Me Oil. I drag myself up to walk over to the screen and turn on the song. I hear Your voice. Yes, Lord, I do feel like Elijah after he destroyed the prophets of Baal - alone with the enemy close at my heels. So weary, even afraid of what's next. Then the song, the words awaken my soul, and I breathe. 

"My heart is longing for a touch from Your hand, my spirit is yearning to be revived in Your glory again (repeats).

Turn my heart to You. In your Presence Lord I am made new (repeats).  

Give me oil in my lamp, and light the flame again. I want to burn for You (repeats). 

Oh Lord I'm sorry for when I've wandered astray. You're faithful to find me. Create within me a clean heart again (repeats).

Turn my heart to You. In Your Presence I am made new (repeats).

Give me oil in my lamp"

I couldn't bear to turn the song off, as if listening to it was sustaining my soul, feeding me new life. I've been alone for so long, Abba, and even though now it should be different, it isn't. You sent me here for a specific work, and now it is much more difficult to complete. Did I hear You when I heard the words to return after so many years? Was it You who said clearly "Get into the boat and go to the other side?" Abba, You know I only want what You want, but sometimes I feel so confused. I need to feel Your Presence, Lord, stronger. I need fresh oil. Lord, pour the oil of Holy Spirit afresh upon me. Trim the wick and rekindle the flame. The fire is not out, but the light is flickering, so please hear my prayer today. Let my life be as You asked so many times along the journey. May I trust You, Abba. Search my heart, try my thoughts, and remove anything not of You, not in Your plan for me. Strengthen me for the race, Lord. The finish line is almost in clear view. I wait - expectantly!

.  

Day 7 Open Doors

 

1/7/2026

"Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears 

my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him

and dine with him and he with Me."

Revelation 3:20

 

I began my new year with a devotional written by Amir Tsarfati and Barry Stagner entitled Until He Comes. Amir is a former Major in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), and he is the founder of Behold Israel, a Messianic believer who writes, teaches, and provides prophetic Biblical information regarding Israel and the end times. His teachings and insight on daily happenings as they relate to Biblical prophecy are enlightening and prayer-focused. Each year I try to add to my daily quiet time a devotional with fresh scriptural wisdom, so this year I decided to read Amir's new book, which is packed with godly wisdom and discernment. As the prophetic time clock advances, Amir has daily updates on his online program.

As a part of the daily global prayer call with the International Christian Embassy in Jerusalem (ICEJ) I am learning so much about the land of  Israel and God's chosen people. Right now the world is in chaos over this tiny little country, including spiritual leaders. Replacement Theology has invaded theological seminaries and the churches across the world who believe that the church has taken the place of the Jewish people. It is a sad thing to see how the enemy has slithered his way into the hearts of believers who do not even realize the lie. He has blinded the eyes of pastors and teachers of the truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ who are shepherding their flocks in wrong teaching. It is reminiscent of Saul of Tarsus when he was persecuting the early church believers, but God had His plan for Saul who became Paul the Apostle to the Gentiles. After his conversion on the road to Damascus, he went on to complete three missionary journeys and to write the majority of the New Testament. Paul is an example of how an educated man, a "Pharisee of Pharisees" who was diligently trying to serve God when he was persecuting the followers of Christ, can be so wrong. So it is today, as many are deceived. We need to seek the Lord and rightly divide the Word of Truth.

Observing the news today can be particularly disturbing, especially if the news is being told from the standpoint of unreliable media sources who embellish lies with more lies. It's sad to think that our society has become so used to having everything right at their fingertips, the fast track mentality, that they do not take the time to find out if a story is reliable or completely fabricated. They take what they are told and read and run with it, spreading the malicious gossip all over. Half truths are often more destructive than  out right blatant ones. I enjoy streaming live worship music from the ministries I follow, and it is getting harder and harder to avoid someone criticizing another person, even in the Christian networking. That is a shame, because it ruins the testimony of those who are truly seeking after God, drawing close to Him. Our children suffer from the distorted truth and wrong ideas being circulated in a vengeful manner. Then they respond with hatred and animosity towards others. And all the while non-Christians are watching to see if we are sincere in our faith and actions. Do they see fruitfulness in our lives, or does our response to the misinformation or slander prove inadequate. We must always be ready to give the reason for the hope that is within us (1 Peter 3:15). 

As we pray, seeking God's face with fasting and repentance, let us draw near to the cross of Christ. Jesus has opened the door, and we have only to enter in to enjoy rich fellowship with Him. In Malachi 4:1-3 God promises as He first promises Israel,

"'For behold, the day is coming, burning like an oven, and all the proud, yes, all who do wickedly will be stubble. And the day which is coming shall burn them up,' says the LORD of hosts, 'That will leave them neither root nor branch. But to you who fear My name the Sun of Righteousness shall arise with healing in His wings; and you shall go out and grow fat like stall-fed calves. You shall trample the wicked, for they shall be ashes under the soles of your feet on the day that I do this,' says the LORD of hosts." 

As the church, followers of Jesus Christ the Messiah, we must rise up, fully armored with the whole armor of God, and stand up for Israel, the covenantal land and God's covenantal people. We must expose the bitter roots and uproot them so Israel can be healed and restored. "For I will restore health to you and heal you of your wounds," says the LORD, "because they called you an outcast saying: 'This is Zion; no one seeks her'" 30:17).  

How will you respond? With strength, courage, boldness and a strong resolve? Or will you continue to sit safely at home or on the church pews apathetic to the call of Christ in our day. He is returning - soon.

"And even now the ax is laid to the root of the trees. Therefore every tree which does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. His winnowing fan is in His hand, and He will thoroughly clean out His threshing floor, and gather His wheat into the barn; but He will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire." (Matthew 3:10-12)  

Day 6 Shush! Listen

 

1/6/2026

"The man or woman useful to God is not simply the first 

to act, but he first to listen."

"Sometimes the obedient thing to do is nothing."

Daily Walk

 

Have you ever met someone who talked incessantly, so that your conversation really was a monologue rather than a dialogue between the two? Or someone who doesn't take a breath between sentences, so that you can respond, then gets mad at you, because you haven't responded? Have you ever fallen asleep on the other end of the telephone line when listening to someone go on and on, repeating themselves frequently? Sadly, I have and often. It is a perplexing situation that begs for advice as to how to get someone to breathe! without having the phone slammed down in your ear or worse! It is such a powerless feeling, and it is very disheartening.

Words are so important, especially words of life that we find in the scriptures. I love gel highlighters, and I love my Bible, and I love highlighting important passages of scripture that jump off the page at me. But then, everything leaps off the page, and it's all so good. I can't get enough of reading, learning, gleaning fresh insight, and His faithfulness is new every morning! This love of God's word began in my very early childhood, and over the past thirty years it has exploded within me. Today I went to the dump, and I met a lady who works there. I simply smiled at her and said "Good morning, how are you today?" She responded in kind and spoke of the beautiful day. I then said, "Happy New Year!" She responded in kind, but then said, "It's not really the new year until later, Biblically speaking," and she smiled. I told her she was speaking my language. Obviously, this lady is either Jewish or like me, a Gentile who loves Israel and God's chosen people. I hope the next trip to the dump will be a day she is working, as I'd dearly like to continue our conversation. I hope she feels the same. She did seem happy that I noticed her and spent time talking. Often we do so little of that - acknowledging others as we hurry through life, doing seemingly mundane tasks, but nothing should be ordinary or mundane. Each day should be an adventure and an opportunity to advance the Kingdom of God. That's the example Jesus gave us, and He commanded us to follow suit.

There's too much noise in our world today, and the general overtone is one of anger and dispute. I have never seen the likes of it, honestly, but I do know the root source, but his time is growing short, and he knows it. So every little crack and crevice that he can sneak into and do his damage, he seeks out. People, even the church, are all too willingly falling into the trap of listening to lies, doing nothing, but a remnant is standing up and speaking out. My prayer for this year is that the body of Christ, those who call themselves followers of Christ, will begin this year by setting aside time to seek the Lord. I include myself in this prayer. to really seek Him thru prayer, fasting, repentance, and just listening for His voice. It may require that we shut themselves off from the things that distract us from spending time in the Word. Even good things can become distractions, but the time to seek God for the answers we need is now. No longer can we sit idly by and do nothing. 

Honestly, I don't know what to say to anyone, except wake up from your slumber. I have said it so many times, but it is true: There is a high cost of discipleship, following Jesus. Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life, and no man comes to the Father, except through Jesus Christ our Lord. The way is narrow, not wide like the world with all its distractions meant to entrap and ensnare us. We need Jesus, who is the Author and Finisher of our faith. In Hebrews 11:1 faith is described as: "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." Verse 6 continues, "But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him." As I have shared before, the entire chapter of Hebrews 11 is about the faithful who obeyed God and were considered righteous before Him. God made each one a promise, and they believed He would do it. They all died in faith without every seeing the promise revealed. But God always does what He says He will do. He is a covenant keeping God. I want to be included with those who have been faithful to the call of God, but the time is short, and the time for action is now. 

Now is the time to silence the cacophony of the world and the noise within our own lives, present ourselves before the throne of God and earnestly seek Him for the plan He has for each of us. Take the time to sit in His Presence and listen for the still, small voice. Then do what He says!

Day 5

 

1/5/2026

"It has been well said, 'Every great person has first

learned how to obey, whom to obey,

and when to obey.'"

"The evidence of knowing God is obeying God."

Daily Walk  

 

Sometimes, when life gets extremely heavy, I turn on the old television series, Highway to Heaven with Michael Landon, who had a masterful sense of morality and living a decent, clean, respectful life, showing kindness and God's love to all people. In this show he plays an angel on assignment along with his human friend played by Victor French. When the noise in my head from my last head injury hinders my sleep, I stream the show, volume low enough to barely distinguish the words, and I drift asleep. I don't have to worry about hearing anything indecent or profane in these shows. It's extremely important what we watch or listen to, as television and online streaming is extremely satanic and evil. When we fall asleep at night in front of the television, that open door can infiltrate your home with wrongful influence and evil. I have personally witnessed this truth. We must guard ourselves and our children especially.

The story about Wally the Waver is about a homeless man, Wally, who stands by the road and waves at drivers and passersby. He was friendly, respectful, and extremely kind and warm. Everyone in the city and park knew Wally. He had an imaginary friend, Charlie, who "sat beside Wally" on the park bench as he read the newspaper. The mayor of the city was particularly harsh and non-caring, especially towards the homeless or disadvantaged, and he was a lookalike of Wally. Wally told Jonathan (Michael Landon's character) that if he could talk to the mayor, he's say "Be nice." So Jonathan, working on assignment by God, switched them, and the mayor became the homeless man, and he got a taste of how it truly is to live on the streets, having no where to sleep and short lines at the soup kitchen with not enough food to feed them all. Wally was a little simple, but his words were honest and true. Let's just say, the story worked out well, the mayor was transformed and his marriage rekindled, and Wally, who was dying, passed on to meet God, with the mayor honoring his memory.

Another story was about an orphan named Alex who had been abandoned by his parents, so Alex was left in the State's control and shuffled from one foster home to another. In the story he had been living in a very nice foster home with a lady who genuinely loved the children who were not able to be adopted, because of age. People want to adopt babies, not older children, so children over the age of three are tossed aside...again. Alex was a pretty sad and rejected young boy, probably ten years old, and he had grown very quiet and alone, isolating himself, rejection too deep. In walks Angel Jonathan and Mark, his sidekick, who are "on assignment" at a dog kennel/boarding house, run by a kindhearted and compassionate lady who is a foster parent to dogs no one wants, often boarding them and not returning to pick them up. Each week the dogs were taken to visit the children at this foster home, and one dog, who had wandered away from his home and was found by Jonathan and brought to the kennel, became attached to Alex. I guess the dog was "on assignment" as well. The dog's owners looked for the dog, named Jake, until one day they located him. In the end it turned out very well, as Alex was adopted by this family who wanted a son, and their little daughter, had grown to love Alex as a friend. Another happy ending for a youngster without hope, without love, without a family. 

Michael Landon wrote about kindness being shown to people in all walks of life. I've written about his life and stories before, but his lessons are very clear and uplifting, and they bear truths so simple for the complex world we live in. If people would pay heed to words of life, rather than feeding themselves with garbage, thereby protecting their vulnerable little ones who also hear what they hear and see what they see, and it affects them deeply, what a difference it would make in this chaotic society in which we live today. Again, I know the power of such things and the affects. 

In closing, something to consider: 

"Oh, for the attitude of a five-year-old! That simple uncluttered passion for living that can't wait for tomorrow. A philosophy of life that reads, 'Play hard, laugh hard, and leave the worries to your father.' A bottomless well of optimism flooded by a perpetual spring of faith. It is any wonder Jesus said we must have the heart of a child before we can enter the kingdom of heaven?" (And the Angels Were Silent by Max Lucado)

"[Jesus} said, 'I tell you the truth, unless  you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.'" Matthew 18:3

 

Day 4 Break up the Fallow Ground

 

1/4/2025

"Now, therefore," says the Lord, "Turn to Me with all 

your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning."

Joel 2:12

 

This year as I meditate on the area of change I would like to focus on in my life personally, and in considering my role as an intercessor as we seek the Lord corporately, the need for repentance is always at the forefront. Each year ICEJ, as well as other church ministries, joins together at the first of the year in corporate fasting, seeking the direction God would have us go personally and as a ministry. Today marked our 820th day of daily global prayer meetings, and the time has been enriching for me on a personal and spiritual level. I know that this sentiment is felt by everyone attending. We have become a family, and although the attendees, such as myself, who are not "seen," do not participate in the prayers formally, nonetheless, we are engaged on our own in bringing the needs before the Lord. Today Rick Ridings from Succat Hallel, shared with us about the focus of our prayer. He explained it as a time of re-birthing for Israel, as well as our nations. Before planting and building, he said there must be a time of uprooting, and we can see this so clearly in Israel as well as in our individual countries. The prophet Hosea in calling Israel back from sin to repentance prophesied: "Sow for yourselves righteousness; reap in mercy; break up your fallow ground, for it is time to seek the LORD, till He comes and rains righteousness on you" (Hosea 10:12). Hosea cries out to Israel, who "have plowed wickedness" and who have "eaten the fruit of lies," to return to the LORD in repentance. And this is our cry today for Israel and for the nations of the world. 

This is a time when the church must arise and shine! Paul, when addressing the philosophers at Athens says, "Truly, these times of ignorance God overlooked, but now commands all men everywhere to repent, because He has appointed a day on which He will judge the world in righteousness by the Man whom He has ordained. He has given assurance of this to all by raising Him from the dead." (Acts 17:30-31). These are bold words, and we need to take them to heart as they are prophetic in nature. If we look around at the things that are happening in our world today. I am so sick of the enemy having the upper hand in the lives of professing followers of Christ. In Virginia the elections changed the course of our State. God had given us grace and mercy, but because of the veil over the eyes of the people, especially the church, our children, for one, are no longer being protected. It is my understanding that many Christians did not vote, and this apathy needs to stop, because we have been given the freedom to choose godly, moral leadership by our founding fathers. This is a privilege and a right. Why do we throw it away? God is the one who established government, and He placed it on the shoulders of Jesus who delegated responsibility to the church, but we are failing. We have elected a man to a high State government position who fantasized of killing another man, in a position of authority, and his children according to a local newspaper article and the media all over the nation. This alone leads me to repent on behalf of our State, because I simply do not understand why people hate righteous leaders who are trying to make our cities safe, assist our citizens honorably, and safeguard our children, standing for the sanctity of human life. I don't understand the moral depravity of our State, our nation, or our world. 

Each day I examine my heart, because I desire to live a godly lifestyle and proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ to all who will listen. It is my prayer that all who read this blog will enter into a personal time of self-examination, breaking up the fallow ground in your life, putting aside the things of this world, and running after Jesus, who is the Author and Finisher of our faith. Following the example of Daniel in prayer in Daniel 9, humbly approach the throne of grace and ask God for mercy to triumph over judgment. Daniel was a righteous man, but he included himself in this prayer, and that is the way of repentance, of intercession. Romans 12:3 says: "And because of God's gracious gift to me I say to every one of you; Do not think of yourself more highly than you should. Instead, be modest in your thinking,..." God is calling us to stop pointing our fingers at others, criticizing, slandering others and gossiping. He is calling us to repentance. 

Day 3 Two Trees in the Garden

 

1/3/2026

"Falling in love with Jesus is the best thing

I've ever done!"

 

Saturday morning began early for me. The warmth of my quilts was not easy to abandon, so I elected to stay comfy cozy for a bit, as I listened to An Hour with Jesus hosted by Terry MacAlmon on New Year's Eve. I hadn't gotten a chance to listen to him on Wednesday evening, so I felt there was no better way to begin my morning, praising and worshiping our Blessed Lord! Terry had pre-recorded it, as he spent New Year's Eve in Alberta Canada at a church praising in the New Year with several churches. I'm certain that it went very well, especially with the crack down on churches once more going on in that country. 

Terry shared something that Holy Spirit had dropped into his heart as he was praying, seeking the Lord. He said, "Live each day as though every one you meet is more important than you, because they are." The Bible teaches us that God loves us, and because He forgave us, we forgive ourselves and not allow the enemy to torment us with what has already been forgiven and dumped into the sea of forgetfulness. The world teaches us that we are to love ourselves, but Jesus teaches us that if we want to be great in His Kingdom, we must learn to be a servant of all (Matthew 20:25-28; John 13:15; Matthew 25:35-40; Matthew 23:19-20). In Matthew 20:1-34 when the sons of Zebedee, James and John, ask to sit on His right and left hand in the Kingdom of God, Jesus teaches them what it means to follow Him and be His disciple. Again, He teaches of service to others, washing the feet of your fellow man. Humility is a prerequisite to being great in the Kingdom, as Jesus humbled Himself, and He died the death of a suffering servant, so we are to live our lives. His teachings are beautiful and true.

In Romans 12:3 Paul tells us, "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." In James 4:10 he says: "Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up." 

Consider when Adam and Eve were in the Garden of Eden where God walked with them in the cool of the evening. This was prior to their listening to the devil's lies, before Eve was beguiled by his cunning. Why are women so gullible? I think sometimes in our desire to be kind and supportive that we open the door for troubles, even entrapment. I've had more than my share of wrong decisions, so I know a lot about the subtlety of the enemy. Again I remind everyone, as Billy Graham said, "Stick to the Book!" All the answers are contained in the scriptures.  In the Garden of Eden there were two trees in the middle of the Garden they were told to leave alone. The Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil and the Tree of Life. They had to be cast out of the garden after choosing to eat of the first tree, because if they had eaten from the Tree of Life, they would retain the sin and live forever. But, because they sinned they brought the sin nature into the world, and the rest is history. Even after the flood, Noah and his family still carried the sin nature within them, so it began afresh and anew. 

In our lives we have a choice as to which tree we eat from. We can continue to eat from a lustful desire as Eve did when she looked at the fruit at the devil's urging, and she saw with her eyes the succulent, desirable fruit (lust of the flesh in seeing and desiring it), shared with Adam who was complicit in the act of sin, and then their eyes were open to their nakedness (pride of life). In our present day we eat from that same tree when we decide to do things our way, rather than God's way, questioning His path for our life. Sadly, we face the consequences  of our bad choices and decisions, and they are visited in our children. But thanks to Jesus, once we are saved from our sins, once we make a course change and surrender our lives to His will, and are truly born again, we can eat of the tree of life and feed on His Word. Jesus is the Bread of Life as described in the Apostle John's Gospel of John. When we finish our time here on earth, and He comes to take us home, we will enjoy eternal life with Him. It is all a matter of which tree we choose - life or death. We choose to have fellowship with those who speak the words of life as found in the Word of God. I think Psalm 1 is a perfect Psalm for this expression:

"Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful; but his delight is in the law of the LORD, and in His law he meditates day and night. He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf also shall not wither; and whatever he does shall prosper" (Psalm 1:1-3).

Which tree is more appealing to your life? Choose wisely!