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. 

Day 231 Remember...You are!

 

8/19/2026

"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God,

and the Word was God."

John 1:1

 

When the Lord first spoke to me about writing, He led me back to His beginning to help me understand, if one can truly do that, the Kingdom of God. He directed me to the Gospel of Matthew, the introduction as: "Matthew is the gospel written by a Jew to Jews about a Jew." In today's society, even in the church, I think that many have forgotten these important facts, especially that Jesus is a Jew. In fact He is the King of the Jews.

The Gospel of Matthew begins with the genealogy of Jesus beginning with Abraham, the man God chose to be the father of all nations. I have always loved reading and studying through the "begats," because it is here I can see so clearly not only the love of God, but His amazing mercy and forgiveness to imperfect man. 

When John the Baptist was sent by God as a forerunner to announce the coming of the Messiah, his message was simple, "Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand" (Matthew 3:2). After John was imprisoned, and Jesus began His ministry His first words were the same: "Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand" (Matthew 4:17). Jesus hand picked His disciples and simply said "Follow Me." And they did without hesitation. I often wonder why it is not that simple today, and yet, perhaps within the hearts of those who truly hunger and thirst for righteousness, it can be so. I know for myself, I have never doubted who He is, and following Him is all I want to do. 

This world has much darkness, and many are confused, especially young people. Summer is almost over, and colleges are starting up, and where there is excitement in the air about being part of a college community, meeting new friends, living in the dorms, with all the freshness of a new beginning, no longer under the watch care of parents, I imagine there is also much fear because of the ugliness and uncertainty  in the world today. Life is not just about moving out of the family home, meeting new friends, acquiring new knowledge, it means growing up, becoming of age and accountability as an adult. And who really knows what they want to do with their life at 18 years of age?! We all have dreams, and for some of us, our dreams never die, they never age, but we have to be realistic and sometimes things don't happen overnight or way past that stage. Many times young people become caught up in society's view of what becoming successful means. It's easy to fall into discouragement, especially once classes begin, and the curriculum is not as easy to grasp as it was in high school. If one hopes to succeed there's a new level of achievement necessary, and this can often cause some to feel "less than." And so, we tend to judge ourselves by how others are doing, rather than just being accepting of who we are and adjusting our pace accordingly. And it's never a sign of failure to need help to get through a tough course load. 

I recently read this quotation from Max Lucado from his book No Wonder They Call Him The Savior:

"You are valuable just because you exist. Not because of what you do or what you have done, but simply because you are. Remember that. Remember that the next time you are left bobbing in the wake of someone's steamboat ambition. Remember that the next time some trickster tries to hang a bargain basement price tag on your self-worth.... Just think about the way Jesus honors you...and smile."

I think Max spoke some pretty good advice for any age, because we all fall into the rabbit hole of defeat at times. Life is hard, and people can be cruel sometimes...or maybe not cruel, but callous for the wear and tear on their lives. I also love the wise sayings of Winnie the Pooh who once told Piglet some advice that Christopher Robin may first have said to him: "Always remember you are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, smarter than you think, and loved more than you ever know."

 O, how we need more Winnie the Poohs in this world today! 

Day 230 In the Sheepfold

 

8/18/2026

"Do you pray often enough for God to 

recognize your voice?"

Daily Walk

 

Yesterday when I was writing my blog I shared about my struggles with prayer, because of the continuous chaos of this world and continuous spiritual attack that has been coming after me and my family. It's not that I am not praying, as that is what I am called to do as an intercessor, and regardless of how I may be feeling, my life is hidden in Christ. My concern has been with the varying opinions of others that do not align with God's Word, and the distractions that are seeming to take the place of time on our face before God repenting of our inconsistency in prayer or lack thereof. This is a very dark time as the enemy is working overtime in an attempt to destroy our country. Those who appear to be well-meaning in calling prayer meetings are really holding events that may include prayer, but they have too many people sharing their points of view when the only point of view, and the only opinion that is important is God's. We must repent of attempting to build our own credence and denying the power of Almighty God. 

I am now reading and studying the book of Ezekiel who is a younger contemporary of Jeremiah. While Jeremiah is in Judah warning of the coming destruction of Jerusalem, Ezekiel is already in Babylon with Israel in exile. Although their missions were the same, warning the people of God of impending doom and destruction because of the horrendous sins and their failure to repent, their delivery was different. According to the overview in My Daily Walk: "Ezekiel was given the task of describing to a band of spiritually blind Jews the Person and program of their God. But before he was qualified to do that, Ezekiel needed his own spiritual eyesight checked, in order to gain a clear, fresh perspective of the great and glorious God he was called to represent." 

We, the readers, are challenged to examine how well we know the God that we are supposed to be representing to those we come in contact with each day - our families, communities, churches, places of employment, and even in our own quiet time with the Savior.

Although Ezekiel's prophecies were bleak detailing the total destruction of Jerusalem, while the leaders of Judah watched helplessly, and all appeared bleak and hopeless, God offers encouragement through Ezekiel (11:19): "I will give you one heart and a new spirit. I will take from you your hearts of stone and give you tender hearts of love for God."  This is a picture of our God, the Holy One of Israel, who punishes those He loves only to offer a fresh beginning, an opportunity to serve Him and make Him Lord. Throughout Scripture this is the God we serve, who offers us hope in our helplessness and who desires above all to have relationship with us. He accomplishes this through the shed blood of Jesus Christ our Savior and Lord who died on the cross for our sins, washing us clean, so we could stand before a Holy God.

Do you know His voice? Do you hear Him calling? Psalm 91:1-2 promises: "He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust."

Some wonderful sisters in the Lord once shared with a struggling Pastor that if he wanted to grow in his relationship with God and build his faith and ministry that all he had to do was: "Find the love of Jesus and love Him back."  That's the key! Along with Billy Graham's wonderful advice - "Stick to the Book!"

Go and do likewise.  

Day 229 Break of Day

 

8/17/2026

 "I ought to spend the best hours of the day

in communion with God."

E. M. Bounds

 

Last night I was so exhausted that I fell asleep, sitting on the sofa, with a glass of iced tea in my hand. Fortunately, I had finished the last of my tea, before I completely dozed off, waking up to the sound of the glass hitting the floor. For some reason it didn't fracture, not even a crack in the glass. It was only 10:30 pm, and I normally stay up a little longer. So I got ready for bed and was soon fast asleep. I remember waking up abruptly at 5:30 am knowing that I needed to pray. I repented for my lazy prayer habits recently, as I feel as if I have not been as attentive to everyone's individual needs as I should be. I have been so concerned with the inconsistencies I have been noticing within the groups, that I have begun to question every motive I have. That is if I even have any motives other than to lift up a need to prayer. The chaos and confusion of this world has reached into so many areas of ministries, and I am taken aback by the enormity of it all. So, I stepped back, still praying, but not with the same fervor. 

My son, Daniel, was heavily on my heart, as well as some other individuals, so I began to seek Abba for direction. My "list" has grown so incredibly, and trying to keep one list updated has become impossible. So, I began with what has been written on my heart - just me and Abba, as it should be. Eventually I drifted back off to sleep after an hour or so, but I woke up again before the alarm went off. I remember dreaming a crazy dream, but I couldn't make much sense of it. At least I woke up in a better frame of mind, my thoughts more cohesive, my focus clear.

I noticed that my window had been closed in my room, and then in several of the rooms in the house. I was beginning to think I'd been sleep walking at some point in time. Apparently it rained early in the morning, and my son was up and closed the windows. He said it had been another gully washer, but oddly, I slept through it. I guess I needed the sleep and rest to prepare me for my day, although it has been less problematic than most I've been having recently. I did receive one email that made me wonder if common sense had completely been removed from people's thought processes. So many problems could be solved today if people would stop wasting time on senseless habits that lead to ridiculous ideas that are nothing but nonsense. I call those distractions not worthy of anyone's time or energy, and yet...!! So I did what any intelligent individual would do, I unsubscribed.

I've been watching the movie Jesus Revolution about the 1971 movement that began in California at Calvary Chapel, Pastor Chuck Smith, that broke out when a group of hippies were invited to his church. It's also the story of Greg Laurie and his spiritual journey that led him to pastor Harvest Ministries in California. The movement spread across the United States, and has been called the largest. I used to listen to Pastor Chuck every day when I worked in the lab at Medical College in Richmond, and I now host a group online study for Harvest Ministries. I've been involved with his ministry since the Covid outbreak, but the story is not the usual way things begin. Nonetheless, I'm still hosting, and ladies are still gathering. Although Pastor Chuck has passed on to his eternal home, Pastor Greg still has annual Harvest Crusades and performs baptisms at Pirate's Cove, as noted in the movie. It's an inspirational "must see" movie.  

Waking up early and spending the first quiet hour alone with God, before the cat hears motion and begins to meow, or I reach for a cup of coffee or turn on music, is the best time to listen to what our Father is saying. We get so caught up in doing "good things" that sometimes time alone with Him takes second place to even the cup of coffee. Even Jesus had to get alone with His Father: "He went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night." (Luke 6:12). There's something about going up the mountain to get alone to pray. I know I've missed the mountains of New Mexico where I spent the better part of my life. But then I remember as a child how I'd meet Him on the big rock in the Puryear's woods or up a tree.

"In prayer, the heart leaps to meet with God just as a child  runs to his mother's arms, ever sure that with her is the sympathy that meets every need." E.M. Bounds 

Day 228 Timelines

 

8/16/2026 

"Our sense of sin is in proportion to our nearness to God."

 Daily Walk

 

For several days I have been trying to catch up with my daily reading. I'm just finishing up with Jeremiah which consists of very strong warnings from God to the people of Judah. For forty years the prophet Jeremiah had faithfully obeyed God to the letter in pronouncing judgment on Judah and the city of Jerusalem unless they turned from their evil ways back to serving Him. The leaders had not taken his words seriously over all this time, and they became very incensed with him and threatened to kill him. Jeremiah and God's other prophets sent to the Israel and Judah to warn them of the impending doom, death and exile fell on deaf ears, and the people failed to accept God's offer of forgiveness - after repeated attempts. Although it appeared that the prophet Jeremiah failed to turn the nation back from sin, the message that God entrusted to him was delivered faithfully. Some kings responded to other prophets and made reforms, as did King Josiah who made sweeping reforms in Judah, but his sons did not follow in his footsteps. 

In spite of the destruction of Jerusalem and the exile of the people to Babylon, God promises restoration to His remnant and a return to the land of Israel where they will live in their own land lush with every blessing, and they will never be taken from their homes again. This is God's promise, and we are seeing it come to fruition in this day, as many Jews are heeding the call of God to return to their ancestral home of Israel. 

Every word that God had spoken through Jeremiah to the people had come true, and Babylon had taken all but a few poor inhabitants, left to tend the land, to exile in Babylon. Jeremiah was shown favor by the king's leader and was allowed to stay in Judah. A governor was chosen and left to watch over the affairs for Babylon. God gave Jeremiah a message about the destruction of Babylon saying that He was going to use the Medes and Persians to exact His vengeance on them for their treatment of the Jewish people and for the destruction of His Temple. God designated Cyrus as His chosen instrument to bring justice against Babylon in the Book of Isaiah in chapters 44 and 45 which was written about 150-200 years before the reign of Cyrus. 

As those who follow prophetic timelines in Scripture love to point out, God has His modern day heroes He has chosen to fulfill Israel's redemptive purpose in the end times. Although I have not particularly been one who paid attention to such fine details in history previously, I admit that it is hard to miss when Bible study becomes a daily part of your life. I don't know how pastors and teachers have missed all that they have and continue to do, and it is not being taught in church or Bible studies at church for the most part.  I find it fascinating watching the prophetic time clock tick, seeing what is happening in our national and international history. Nothing takes God by surprise. He is the Author and Finisher of our faith, and Creator of all of Heaven and earth. These are exciting times even in the midst of a chaotic and deeply disturbing time we now find ourselves when evil is called good and good is called evil. The enemy has been strategically playing his hand, moving in his players to divide and conquer our nation. We are seeing the greater threats of Islam and Communism threaten our nation while distractions are being set up to keep people active and confused. Antisemitism is growing and persecution of Christians with imprisonment is becoming more prevalent. All while the church is sleeping. Much is being covered up by social media. Why would American citizens want to sit idly by or encourage the destruction of their own country?

What will it take to open the eyes of the people? When will the church step up and establish the Kingdom of God? Revival is the answer, but repentance starts first, because God says that judgment begins in the house of the Lord.

Day 227 Escape

 

8/15/2026

 "The unrest of this weary world is its unvoiced 

cry for God."

 

It's late, and soon another day will begin. The one thing that I wanted for my birthday this year was to separate myself from the insanity of this world, if only for a couple of days. As an intercessor I cannot shut myself away completely, as I have daily calls, and yet in some ways that is exactly what I need to do. The unnecessary noise of voices wanting to be heard, wanting to be lauded for their ability to pray louder, longer, or say just the right words. In many ways this is what it seems to me that intercession has or is becoming in many circles. 

My quiet times with God have always been so special, and even now as I write these words, I am examining the motives of my own heart, because it has never been and never will be my intention or my desire to criticize the sincerity of another's seeking heart. My Father knows my imperfections, and He knows that we are but flesh, so He knows we will fail. Had He not known these things, why send Jesus to redeem us, to save us from the sinfulness of our own hearts?! Besides which the true accuser of the brethren is busy spreading his own deceit and vile intentions. Followers of Christ need to be wary of his devices so as not to fall into his evil snare, as many already have done.

I've been sitting quietly with Abba all my life, as much as anyone can be aware of from an early age. The quietness of His presence, and the times when His voice is more urgent. During the periods in my life when I faltered in my attention towards Him, Holy Spirit never abandoned me. I always felt Him near me. Even now, as I wrestle with these feelings that are laid heavily on my heart, occupying my thoughts, I still feel His nearness to me. I can never chase Him away. I never want to separate myself from my Abba Father, as I am solely dependent on His wise counsel and His path for my life. I will gather my prayer points, as needed, from others as we stand together, but I have felt the need to guard my heart and mind from the influence of others and seek only His voice. The chatter, the prattle that seems to never stop, simply noise that has become so loud, often empty, as I realize the subtly of the enemy. I know he seeks to destroy my peace, steal my joy, separate me from meaningful fellowship with like-minded lovers of God. But I also know that although I step away, I will always return much stronger, with greater discernment and a greater understanding of how to continue the fight.

The daily news is non-stop, and many times duplicate reports I have already received. I even find Christian news sources to be confusing and many times filled with unnecessary opinions, offering information that is unsuitable to be shared with the public. It reminds me of housewives meeting at the back fences to gossip, much like the prayer chains exchanging concerns for prayer purposes, never, of course, gossip. If we are truthful, at some time in our lives we have all engaged in such unnecessary sharing. I prefer to know facts and leave the rest for God to reveal. I prefer simpler ways to gather truth. In reading through the Bible this year, the Lord has been directing me to keep my focus on Him and to guard the integrity of my heart and mind. I am to focus only on the Word of God. That is what I've always tried to do, but I am to check my motives each day. 

Saturday evenings are my late nights "on the wall" as I join other intercessors who each have a time period set to pray for six national leaders. I must admit that this is not my favorite period of intercession, as I feel so inadequate to break through the thick hedge of evil that surrounds so many of our leaders. Generally there are more praying than a single individual, yet from 11:30 pm until 12 midnight I am alone on the prayer wall. I generally begin earlier and stay later, because I study backgrounds to see who I am lifting in prayer, how their lives began. Often one may begin their lives with honorable intentions to bring change to the government, healthy goals that could truly benefit our nation for good, yet somewhere in between on their journey up the ladder of success, they change. Many times I don't think they realize how much they have deviated from their initial goals, the ones closer to God's heart. And I feel that fear of others more powerful forces the actions in certain regards.

I have become very tired, not of the battle, rather tired of the attitudes of intercessors who seem to think God needs us. It reminds me of a scene in The Chosen series when Jesus tells Simon the Zealot that He doesn't need him or anything, but He wants him and has chosen him as a disciple to follow Him. God created us in His own image to be in relationship with Him, and His purpose is to build His Kingdom - the Kingdom of God - on this earth. Jesus came to fulfill the works of His Father. He says it many times in the Scriptures, yet no one was listening then, and I often wonder who is listening now. The church is busily engaged in its own agenda, building their own kingdom of sorts, however well intentioned their initial plans had been, even when it comes to what they call revival. 

But, it's late, and I've rattled on long enough. Only God sees and understands me and what I am trying to say, the sincerity of my heart and the compassion I feel for my brothers and sisters in Christ. This battle is real, and my heart heavy, but perhaps I can yet do some good in prayer on the wall tonight as I lead into a new day may it bring hope that can come only from steadfast trust in Him alone.  

Day 226 I Trust in God, My Savior

 

 8/14/2026

"My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus' blood

and righteousness. I dare not trust the sweetest

frame, but wholly lean on Jesus' name."

The Solid Rock  

 

Earlier in the day my thoughts seemed so clear as I prepared for my group study last night, as I began to listen to the global prayer call, settling down to the worship music which was a rendition of the old hymn, The Solid Rock. It's a song I sing from time to time when the world starts getting crazier than it already is, as it has a soothing effect on me. I've been under such spiritual attack recently that my back feels riddled with arrows. The morning was so peaceful, before things became otherwise. I suppose I was still reeling from the insults from the previous days. 

Holy Spirit has been teaching me about motives. At first I thought it was all about examining mine, but it became much larger than that, as I listened more intently. I guess it's hard for me to even think that Abba may be speaking of someone in our time together. I always ask God to examine my heart to see if my heart is pure, if I am still holding a grudge. If there's any evil in me, I want it gone. I have no desire to be "seen" or "heard" by any man. I live in obscurity, and I like it that way. Perhaps that is why small prayer groups who applaud each other's anointing do not work for me. I can't explain the things I feel, and I won't try. I have experienced so much attach in recent days, but then that is to be expected in these end times. I thank God, as did Paul, that He said in 2 Corinthians 12:9-11: "But He said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong"  

Sadly, I am not as strong as Paul, because I don't always joy in persecution, especially when today is supposed to be a special day for me - my birthday. I'm 76 years old, and although I live with chronic pain, it's okay, because God makes a way. I am rejoicing this morning because a missionary, Kevin Rideout has been released from captivity after being kidnapped from Niger last October. He's in good health, and hopefully, has been restored to his family. How my heart rejoices with his family, with all who love him. Our Savior smiles. Can you see that smile? I can! 

Mary of Bethany was persecuted because she poured very costly perfume, spikenard, on the feet of Jesus, but Jesus blessed her, and He honored her. Many people who have approached the King humbly, in love, bowing at His feet, have been misunderstood. And so it has always been and always will be until His return.

This morning the first verse of scripture that I read was one of my often prayed verses found in Psalm 57:7: "My heart is steadfast, O God, my heart is steadfast; I will sing and give praise." Verse 8 continues with: Awake, my glory! Awake, lute and harp! I will awaken the dawn." Regardless of all that goes on in this world, as I pray for our President, Israel, Iran, as well as all other national, international and personal needs, I can say to my God, "My heart is steadfast, O God!" I am confident that Your hand is not shortened that You cannot save or Your ear too heavy that You cannot hear! (Isaiah 59:1) My trust is in God My Savior, and yes, Abba, I will do what You have told me to do. I will remain focused on You, Lord Jesus, my Captain, and the enemy has no say in my life as I am surrendered to You.

The newer version of the hymn mentioned above has powerful verses and identifies with my feelings for this day, so this is where I end my blog: 

In Christ Alone (My Hope is Found) by Keith Getty and Stuart Townend

In Christ alone, my hope is found
He is my light, my strength, my song
This Cornerstone, this solid ground
Firm through the fiercest drought and storm

What heights of love, what depths of peace
When fears are stilled, when strivings cease
My Comforter, my All in All
Here in the love of Christ I stand

 

In Christ alone, who took on flesh
Fullness of God in helpless babe
This gift of love and righteousness
Scorned by the ones He came to save

'Til on that cross as Jesus died
The wrath of God was satisfied
For every sin on Him was laid
Here in the death of Christ I live

There in the ground His body lay
Light of the world by darkness slain
Then bursting forth in glorious day
Up from the grave, He rose again

And as He stands in victory
Sin's curse has lost its grip on me
For I am His and He is mine
Bought with the precious blood of Christ

No guilt in life, no fear in death
This is the power of Christ in me
From life's first cry to final breath
Jesus commands my destiny

No power of hell, no scheme of man
Can ever pluck me from His hand
'Til He returns or calls me home
Here in the power of Christ I'll stand

Selah.

Day 225 Feasting with the King

 

8/13/2026

"I am my Beloved's, and He is mine."

Song of Solomon 6:3  

Today marks the beginning of the Hebrew month Elul which leads up to the High Holy Feasts celebrated in the month of Tishri. This is a time of great comfort for the Jewish people, and it is also a time of soul-searching and repentance. It's a wake up call, a period of time the Christian church could well learn from studying Jewish history, the history of our Lord Jesus Christ. It is a month of God's mercy on His people, a time of comforting as Isaiah 40 instructs. God offers mercy, compassion, and hope. Each day the shofar sounds through the city, which according to history announces the time that God descends from His throne and sits on the mercy seat. 

It is also said that during this time in history the King, who is unapproachable otherwise by the common people, will go into the field where he walks and fellowships with the people. Anyone can come near to him without fear, without jumping impossible hurdles to secure a brief audience with him. But every year at this time, the King leaves his throne to be with the people. 

"The four Hebrew letters of Elul (Aleph-Lamed-Vav-Lamed) form an acronym for the verse "Ani l'dodi v'dodi li" ("I am my Beloved's and my Beloved is mine") the Song of Songs, symbolizing the close, loving relationship between God and humanity during the season of return."  

It is a time when the Jewish people pray and await the return of the Messiah, as they earnestly seek Him. It is a time we pray that the veil is lifted, the eyes are opened, and the Jewish people will recognize that Jesus Christ is the Messiah so clearly foretold throughout the Scriptures. Imagine what rejoicing would come when this day finally comes.

Today as I was listening to music in my quiet time, Michael W Smith prayed the following prayer as He sang the song Let It Rain from his album, Worship Forever. Interestingly, this album debuted on September 11, 2001, the day that rocked our nation and forever changed our lives. At this time in our American history it is important that we cry out to our Father, who loves us so dearly, for mercy:

"O God, we are a desperate people. We see nations torn apart, we see families broken, we see the wasteland of lost souls, heavy hearts fainting with fear. This dry ground is breaking under our feet, and these dry bones waiting for the winds to change. But You see Your people, and You hear our cries in this dry and weary land where there is no water. Our strength is in remembering, our power is in returning, so tonight, tonight we return to You. Bring us back to truth as You did in the Reformation. Sweep through every small town and city as You did in the Great Awakening. Shake the nations like You shook the people of Wales. Flood our streets like You flooded Azusa. Let our churches fall on their faces in repentance, for that time of refreshing will come. O, God, Christ Jesus be lifted up in our schools, in our work places, in our churches. O, God, let it rain!"

I join my heart with that of my brother in Christ, Michael W Smith, in humbly seeking the mercy of God, as we repent for our sins of not doing the will of our Father on this earth, for not heeding the call. Let it not be "as in the days of Noah...." May our hearts be open, as we approach our King while He can be found. The King is in the field. Come, Lord Jesus, come.  

Day 224 Pause to Worship

 

8/12/2026

"A Christian is like a teabag -

not worth much until he's been through

some hot water."

Daily Walk

 

Now that's an understatement! A little hot water?? I feel as if I've been soaking all night long, and I'm feeling a bit water logged and tea stained! The good news this morning is that my rash from the poison oak fiasco is beginning to look "human," if that can be an adequate description. I still do not know how I managed to get infected, but thankfully, it has remained isolated to my left wrist and arm. Epsom salt is once more my best support against poison bushes. I have purposed to leave the bushes until autumn or closer to winter when everything has died, and I can remove the entire row of bushes and eliminate the poison vines. At this stage of the game I'm not even certain what daddy planted, but I know it is not the beautiful forsythia bushes he used to have lining the property on two sides. They were the most vibrant yellow, and when they bloomed it felt like heaven. Bright flowers bring me so much joy, and I have thoroughly enjoyed the crepe myrtle trees - purple and bright rose. I still have to contend with the Virginia Creeper, but it is manageable. I love sitting outside in my little tree garden in my red retro chair enjoying the beauty and peace.

I woke up before the alarm and visited with Alex on the front porch. He really is a spoiled cat to be half feral. The kitten came face to face with him this morning, but he did not linger inside. I caught her watching him out the window, as if she remembered him. My theory is that Alex is the one who brought Fae to us, as he has other friends visiting us from time to time. He prefers the great outdoors and the freshness of the morning, but once it gets cold, he'll probably want to be back in my room sprawled lazily across the bed. I sat down to visit with him awhile this morning on the top step beside a fat slug and a smaller one attempting to make their exit. At night slugs love to check out the cat's bowls. It seems to be a favorite spot for other critters as well. I've not seen our resident opossum lately, but I hope he's safe. The neighbor came by early this morning, walking his little dog, and they lingered a few minutes in front of my house. We spoke briefly, but it's hard to get into a conversation when I'm still in my pajamas and robe. Plus my hair looked a fright, but that's normal. He's retired military, and he enjoys watching movies in his garage on Friday nights. My friend and I have been invited up, but we have yet to go. It would be nice to get to know him, as he seems very friendly. I 'd love to hear about his tours of duty and share with him about my work as a civilian employee at Fort Lee in Race Relations. I'd love to know about the growth of the base and the change in the name. I have many years to catch up on. 

Later a lady was walking her little dog, and we exchanged "hellos." I was cutting grass which seems to be the time people honk their greetings or wave. Everyone seems friendly, and it reminds me of when I was growing up around here. It's an old neighborhood and is relatively quiet. I was able to get the grass cut, and tree branches and debris from the storm picked up off the yard, but there's weeding left to do. Weed eating is my son's chore, so I left him plenty to do. The rain beat up my wild flowers, so I need to finish cleaning up my flower bed, but that can wait for another day.

I'm ending the day with music by Terry MacAlmon - my usual Wednesday night Hour with Jesus. He went overtime tonight, but I am so glad, because it is so wonderful to sit and listen to praise and worship songs, many of which are from the early days of Integrity Music. His followers don't seem to mind what he sings, as we love it all. He closes with a short devotional, a refreshing way to end the day.

"Let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually."

Hebrews 13:15 

Day 223 Risky Love

 

8/11/2026

 "Risky love seizes the moment."

And the Angels Were Silent

Max Lucado 

 

I was awakened by a thump landing on my bed this morning. Little Fae, our mischievous orphaned kitty, decided that it was time to play, and she wanted Gram to get up. It was still rather early, so rather than insisting on her way, she quietly laid down beside me, and put her little head on my shoulder. This didn't last very long, as she decided she needed a better place to lie down, so she crawled up on my chest and settled down for a few more minutes. I was the one to break the silence, however, as she was calm and peaceful still. But the moment my feet hit the floor, she was off and running! My son had gotten her out of the room, but he had neglected to feed her. She didn't seem overly hungry, as she enjoys eating dead bugs and chasing the living ones. Once she was fed, I grabbed my coffee and settled back in my bedroom for quiet time. By this time, Fae had located her ball, and she was busy entertaining herself. And so the morning began.

I received a call during my global prayer call that I felt that I needed to take, and I was correct. The exchange did, however, offer me some hope regarding a matter long held in abeyance may actually have been put to rest. I made the follow up calls, received promising news, but my attempts to gain "in my hand proof" have not yet been obtained. Until this matter is handled, I still have actions to pursue. These are stressful matters, and after dealing with this issue since 2016 it has become very wearying and has a way of tuckering me out for the day. I had to walk around with my phone in my hands, waiting for a return call that never came. Typical, sadly, of this company. Nonetheless, I am giving another day of grace before I proceed on to my next course of action. I don't understand why things have to be this way when the respectful and professional way of handling things should be the customary response. I live in a different world. 

To press that truth of this not being my world a bit further, I received yet another phone call, more drama, more accusations intended to blame me for things that are so absurd - again! After a relatively long monologue, I decided that I'd listened enough, and I decided to end the toxic conversation. Max Lucado's comment about "risky love" was in connection with Mordecai the Jew consulting Queen Esther when wicked Haman had the king sign an edit regarding the annihilation of the Jews. The king had no idea that Queen Esther was a Jew, but Mordecai was asking her to approach the king without invitation, a crime punishable by death unless he held out his scepter. Mordecai told her that if her fear kept her from informing the king of the matter, she would not survive death. The memorable words often quoted about these end times is what Mordecai said to the Queen in Esther 4:14:  "And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?" Mordecai's entreaty worked, and Queen Esther replied:  "Then Esther sent this reply to Mordecai: 'I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish'" (Esther 4:15-16). Sometimes the response is risky love, an exercise perhaps I must pursue in dealing with legal and personal matters. 

Oswald Chambers wisely counsels: "We have to pray with our eyes on God, not on the difficulties."           2 Chronicles 20:12 "Our eyes are upon Thee."

It's very late now, and I need to find my pillow. It's been a day of disappointments, yet a day of laughter and relaxation at times from my comic relief, Fae our kitten. Yesterday once we got the refrigerator set up and the food back in place, put the kitchen back together, and grabbed a quick bite, my son headed off to bed, and I finished a few things I had to do. I guess the stress of it all got to both of us, and since I'm much older, I was really wiped out for most of the day just from that activity. Last evening we had quite a thunderstorm that touched down and flooded some areas of my rooms before I was able to get the windows down. Fortunately the sump pump was working, and the basement did not flood. Although today was sunny and remained so all day, I was unable to get the lawn mowed, and I was so tired that I didn't get very much accomplished except for the follow up phone calls that accomplished little actually. May tomorrow prove to be a more promising and fruitful day.