Cover Photo by MWojciechowski Foto
August 2022 Issue
These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 NKJV
Visit Our Website at www.FaithOnEveryCorner.com for previous issues of our magazine.
COVER PHOTO By MWojciechowski Foto
I’ve been passionate about photography for many years, travelling around the world looking for opportunities to catch the beauty of the world. Usually I concentrate on landscape or cityscape photography but from time to time I make other types of shots. For other works please visit my facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/mwojciechowskifotoB07KPN1GYP Privately I am a member of the Roman Catholic Church, my parish is located in Warsaw, Poland.
INSIDE COVER
NOTE FROM THE EDITOR August is here! And it will bring more heat across the country. Please take time to pray for rain where it is needed and for cooler temperatures. Pray for our farmers and ranchers. Each month, Craig and I spend countless hours devoting ourselves to this ministry. You might wonder why? We don’t sell any advertising; we cover all the costs. One reason is that God gave us this ministry. It was one of those times when we knew exactly what God gave us and He made the path very clear. We pray that when God guides you; you hear His voice clearly and follow Him.
Karen
and C
raig R
uhl
We are so very thankful for our writers and photo contributors who come from all over the world. Our cover photographer comes to us from Warsaw, Poland. I highly recommend clicking on the link for his photo site. He is an amazing photographer. Craig and I have had a busy year with many health issues. I am so happy to report that we went to the Cardiologist for Craig’s one-month check-up after his aortic valve replacement, and all is great. The doctor is happy and said, “See you in a year.” We thank you for your prayers. We will be praying for all of you. Much love - may God bless you all. Karen Ruhl Team@FaithOnEveryCorner.com
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Table of Contents
COVER AND INSIDE COVER BY PHOTOGRAPHER: MWojciechowski
Foto
August Prayer by Craig and Karen Ruhl ... page 21
What’s My Mission And Poems ... by John Alexander ... page 6-7 A Hometown Mission Trip ... by Melissa Henderson ... page 8-9 One God ... by Andrea Marino ... page 10-11 Anababy Mini-Lesson On Forgiveness ... by Stacy Ann Hixon ... page 12-13 Morning Coffee ... by Michael E. Wells ... page 14-15 The Good Portion ... by Nicole Byrum ... page 16-17 Mission Trip Lessons ... by Yvonne M. Morgan ... page 18-19 Every Step Of The way ... by Gina Sewell ... page 20 August Prayer ... by Craig and Karen Ruhl ... page 21 Peace In Troubled Times ... by Dave Evans ... page 22-23 A Good Success ... by Joseph Akinrinola ... page 24-25 All Things Are Possible ... by Dr. Irene Surya ... page 26 Turn On And Tune In ... by Craig Ruhl ... page 27 Not My Plan ... Kathy Pierson ... page 28-29 Summer Clouds ... by Sharon K. Connell ... pages 30-31
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The God Who Stays ... by Paula Short ... page 32 Road Trippin’ In Mt. Airy, NC ... by Karen Ruhl ... page 34-37 Dissatisfaction Has A Voice ... by Ama Afriyie-Jenkins ... pages 38-39 The Extra Mile ... by Steve Carter ... page 40-41 Bookshelf - book reviews ... page 42-43 Then I Am Strong ... by Laurie Glass ... page 44 Saved By The Mailman ... by Steve Carter ... page 45 Remember The Poppies ... by Shara Bueler-Repka ... page 46-47 God’s Possibilities Are Endless ... by Cindy Oriol ... page 48-49 A Window In Time ... Darci Steiner ... page 50-51 Standing In The Gap ... Karen Ruhl ... page 52-53 Promises and Possibilities ... by Chrystal Gilkey ... page 54-55 The Child In Me ... by Dr. Kathleen Oden ... page 56-57 Fireworks And Summer Fun ... by Rolanda Pyle ... page 58-59 Where God Guides, He Provides ... by Ken Barnes ... page 60-61 Improve With Effort ... Craig Ruhl ... page 62-63
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Poems by John Alexander
John Alexander lives in Frisco, Texas with his beautiful wife and his Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
Words Of Hope May words that I write offer courage and hope, Help others seek wisdom, the patience to cope. May the words that I share convey truth that is real From deep in my soul, what I know, what I feel.
What Is My Mission? By John Alexander
May my words speak of treasure beyond earthly realms
With the focus on mission trips this month, I asked myself the question, “what’s my mission?” Perhaps I’m too old to be traveling the globe or taking long trips to be spreading God’s Word. With the technology we have today, we’re able to share ourselves and God’s Word with others anywhere in the world in other ways. I discovered my love of writing in rhyme the year I turned seventy. I began writing poems as part of my morning quiet time in February 2020. A few months later, I began sharing them on a website (QuietTimeRhymes.com). What began as my form of a journal has become a mission of love, sharing my heart in the form of lyrical verse. I don’t have an exact count, but there are now well over 500 poems that share my journey and I pray minister to others and their walk with the Lord. It’s not a mission trip for me in person, but I pray my poems make the journey to reach others and help them find the Lord.
With words spoken gently that don’t overwhelm, Provide words of comfort to those in distress, Show others the pathway to healing and rest. I pray that my words help show others the way, So many competing to lead them astray. It’s really quite simple, I don’t understand, Why we resist what God’s already planned. His Son gave His life so that others may live. There’s nothing more precious that He had to give.
I’ve picked a few poems to share that I pray minister to others reading this month’s issue. Blessings, John Alexander QuietTimeRhymes.com 6PAGE | M6 AG A Z I N E N A M E 3
God’s Gifts Endowed with gifts bestowed at birth, It’s up to us to find their worth. Some talents dormant through the years Await the time when they appear. We did not choose the time or place, But gifts emerged, we got a taste. We found it sweet when first we tried. It touched our soul, it satisfied. We each bring gifts before the Lord, Not gifts we buy or can afford, But rather gifts shared from our heart, God given gifts that won’t depart. I pray God’s gifts, at least a few, Have blessed your life and others too.
Walking by Faith God placed eternity deep in our souls. We’re all seeking something to fill a vast void. It’s only through Jesus that we are made whole. Our souls will persist, something we’ll not avoid. If we walk with Lord and in Him place our trust, His Spirit will lead us and guide us in truth. We seek after treasure that never will rust By walking in faith, not insisting on proof. Satan’s a counterfeit, tries to persuade, By twisting and spinning what man can conceive. He’s not a creator, there’s nothing he’s made. He recycles man’s lies and he tries to deceive. God gives us the answers, we learn from His word, Discerning the truth to expose the absurd.
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A Hometown Mission Trip By Melissa Henderson
Writer of inspirational messages. http://www.melissaghenderson.com
“Sign-up sheets are posted. More information is in the church newsletter and weekly bulletin. Hope to see you all on the next mission trip abroad.” Our pastor spoke about this wonderful opportunity to share the love of Christ and take needed supplies to other areas in the world.
I waited for His answer. God’s timing is always best. His answers are always the best. The next day was hot and humid. Sweat poured off my brow as I picked weeds from the flower bed. A delivery truck slowed and stopped in front of the house. Packages were being delivered to several homes close by. I watched as the delivery person gathered boxes and big envelopes out of the back of the truck. At a quick pace, the man placed each item at the front door of the house and rang the doorbell. Then, he rushed to the next home.
Announcements regarding a special journey out of the country were being shared online, in print, and in person. A group of volunteers would visit a foreign land and help provide food, water, Bibles, and school supplies. Everyone able to travel was encouraged to sign up as soon as possible. They would follow proper protocol. Vac- When the man reached our yard and handed me a cinations and physical checkups were required. box, I noticed the sweat on his brow. I read the information list on the bulletin board in the church Fellowship Hall. In the background, the joy of people discussing the trip while they filled out the needed forms for travel was invigorating. Until I remembered I would not be able to go on the trip. I was happy for each person who could make the journey and help others. But, I was sad that I would not be able to travel and share the love of Christ in another country. Health issues would not allow me to travel. I needed to be near my doctors.
“Hello. Sure is hot today. Would you like a bottle of water?” I asked. “Thank you so much, ma’am. Yes, if you have one to spare, I could use some water. It’s a scorcher today.” He replied and paused to catch his breath. I went inside the house and returned with two bottles of water for the delivery man.
“Thank you. You have truly helped me today.” He After the Sunday worship service, I returned home spoke and then opened a bottle and began drinkand prayed. Asking God to show me how to partic- ing the cool water. ipate in a mission trip was part of the conversation. I thanked God for His blessings and for the people who would make the journey. I asked for God to cover each person with His hedge of protection. Finally, I asked how I could take part in sharing His love. 8PAGE | M8 AG A Z I N E N A M E 3
Award-winning author Melissa Henderson writes inspirational messages laced with a bit of humor. With stories in books, magazines, devotionals and more, Melissa hopes to encourage readers. Melissa is the author of “Licky the Lizard” and “Grumpy the Gator”. Her passions are helping in community and church. Melissa is an Elder, Deacon and Stephen Minister. Follow Melissa on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and at https://www.facebook.com/melissa.henderson.9440
Click on the book covers to purchase Melissa’s books.
The next day was trash day. The cans had been emptied and sat waiting on driveways and sidewalks to be returned to their storage place until next time. As I brought our can to the garage, the neighbor’s trash can sat out on the edge of the street. Knowing the people were at work, I walked over and closed the lid on the can, and placed it next to their garage door. A simple act. Another day, while taking a walk, I noticed an elderly woman sitting alone on her porch. She stared at the plants in her flower bed. “Good morning. Your flowers are beautiful.” I walked closer to get a better view of the petunias and marigolds.
When I returned home, God reminded me that mission work can be done by traveling to a foreign country or by helping people here at home. Giving water to a thirsty delivery person, putting away a neighbor’s trash can, and watering flowers for a neighbor are all ways to show the love of Christ. The mission field is not confined to other areas of the world. The mission field is here in our own community. As I realized what God was sharing through these experiences, I no longer felt sad about not being able to travel. I knew God was allowing me to show His love in various ways, right here at home. Thank You, God.
“Thank you so much. I can’t get out there to water them this morning. My back is hurting.” The kind woman spoke.
Have you participated in a mission trip? Have you considered that mission trips can be in your community, too?
“I’ll be glad to water them for you,” I said with a smile.
“My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.” (John 15:12 NIV).
“Oh, that would be wonderful. I appreciate you doing that for me.” I turned on her garden hose and watered the flowers. The woman and I shared a lovely conversation while the water nourished each plant.
Blessings, Melissa Henderson
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One God
By Andrea Marino Arguments against God range from the basic: why He put a forbidden tree in the Garden and why He did not destroy the devil to the complex, such as found in 2 Kings 8:12: Elisha’s foretelling of horrific killing to happen to the Israelites by Hazael, king of Syria. A chilling account and yet, “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.” (2 Timothy 3:16 NKJ). It is a matter of our own free will to believe or not believe God, to trust or not trust Him, to love or not love Him. Without faith, the natural inclination is to reject God, blaming Him for every terrible thing that happens in our world. The aforementioned consequence, befalling the ancient Israelites is explained in 1 Kings 19:18. They had bowed down to Baal. As any loving father, God sets a precedent. “I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the place of slavery. Do not have We could all have a ‘bone to pick’ with Adam and Eve other gods besides Me.” (Exodus 20:2.3 HCS). for what they did and were cast out of paradise for. If only they hadn’t disobeyed God. If only we could The entire Bible is full of accounts of death and debe good enough - able enough - to reach heaven on struction for those forsaking God. The book of Reveour own. Unfortunately, possessing the same nature lation foretells this same fate of doom to those alive as the first parents is something all people need to today who remain without a ‘circumcise of heart’, come to grips with, and God wants us to know. De- one that takes responsibility for personal sin, which ception abounds in the world, but greater is the One is against God. He will not dwell with evil men. (Psalm of compassion and mercy able to keep us from being 5:4) Isn’t God good for wanting us to know? We dare consumed. (Lamentations 3:22,23). not miss the entire Bible story, all about Jesus. God’s promise to His children is of a new heaven and earth. The Bible provides a necessary distinction between God in the Old Testament and God in the New Testament. Nonetheless, the Lord God is One. (Deuteronomy 6:4). I can’t tell you how many times I come across people rejecting God based on Old Testament accounts. These accounts are to alert us to the consequences of living our own way. It is appointed for all men to die and then be judged. (Hebrews 9:27). That should alarm everyone. But to assume God is only harsh and demanding is tragic because He is love. In fact, God so loved that He emptied Himself and took on a body of flesh to identify with the people He created. (1 John 4:8, Philippians 2:7). Such an astounding thought is the Creator of everything willing to put Himself on a level with fallen man. No greater love is there. (John 15:13). Jesus laid down His life to make a way back to the Father.
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Click on the photo of the book to purchase from Amazon.
Paradise is being prepared for those who put their faith in God the Savior. Moses brought us the law; Jesus came with mercy and grace, fulfilling the law on our behalf. Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world. (1 John 1:29). This is who God is; this is what He did for us. Jesus said: “Believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father is in Me.” (John 14: 11 HCS).
Andrea is mom to four great kids and Grammy to four delightful grands. Passionate about Jesus, friends, and people, Andrea loves to share all He has taught her in life. When not writing, Andrea enjoys simple things, such as music, heartwarming movies, reinventing recipes to be healthier, and cycling along one wooded road or other with the Lord. Please visit her Facebook blog: https:// www.facebook.com/In-The-Way-Everlasting-1770074853062907 Andrea is always ready to hear thoughts from her readers. Or you can email her at: rapture927@aol.com Email: rapture927@aol.com Facebook Blog: In the Way Everlasting
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Anababy’s Mini-Lesson on Forgiveness By Stacy Ann Hixon
When I felt no worth, you paid it all for me. You have been so so kind to me ~ Cory Asbury Dearest Pals, Today, my message IS just a wee bit lyrical. It’s just that I’m SO excited to talk about this MIRACLE: FORGIVENESS And not only in the sense of forgiving someone else, but also in the sense of forgiving YOURSELF. If you’ve made some poor choices in the past... PLEASE give yourself just a wee bit of slack! Guilty feelings are NEVER, EVER any fun. When guilt takes over, you’re back to square one! Feelings of condemnation are certainly NOT God’s plan. Ever think that He might kind of, sort of understand? God loves each and every single one of us! Surely, it’s not his intent to fight and fuss. Nevertheless, let me prove it to you. Just open your bible to...
Ephesians 4:32
So, it’s certainly clear to see, that forgiveness is a gift that’s already been given to you and me! And now that your sins have ALREADY been forgiven, your VERY best life, YOU can be ‘livin’! Showing compassion and kindness to others is the HEART of this verse. And since I love Beauty and the Beast, allow me to reflect on that well-known curse. Beast, for his selfish and cruel nature, was bound by a spell. And THIS is the MOST important detail... Only by LOVING another could Beast escape. Thank heavens for Belle, because loving her, changed his fate! So how does all this relate? There are two MAGIC Keys! Just use them to access these gifts FREE: Compassion—> Forgiveness Kindness—> Love When you think about this, it’s really not that odd! Although I LOVE fairytales, we shouldn’t forget, NO ONE loves us more than God! So just move forward in COMPLETE confidence, with the KNOWLEDGE that LOVE and FORGIVENESS are FREE and HEAVEN SENT!
Be kind & compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as Christ God forgave you.
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Editor’s Note: I met Stacy online and fell in love with Anababy. Check out Anababy’s website for
more information about Anababy, her friends, and her books! We are thrilled to have something you can share with your little ones! From Stacy: I loves teaching little hearts through dolls, stories, and art! In a world consumed with external perfection, Anababy seeks to make a lasting connection. Anababy helps me do this because she is childlike, angelic, and maternal; all wrapped up into one little huggable bundle.
Receiving and sharing are as simple as making a wish. All you must do is this... Keep your compassion and kindness keys close. Access love and forgiveness for YOURSELF and those that need it the most. Love, Anababy ®
Join our fam on Instagram @loveanababy to meet Anababy’s little pals and learn all about her latest dolls and books. Also, visit www.anababyandpals.com to discover all of the surprises in store. Love you more!
P.S. Condemnation is an evil curse with no remedy. Forgiveness is LOVE from GOD that sets you free.
Join our fam on Instagram @loveanababy and meet all of Anababy’s little pals and learn more about her latest dolls and books. Also, visit www.anababyandpals.com to discover all of her surprises in store. Love you more!
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Morning Coffee With Michael E. Wells One plants, another waters, but it is God who gives the increase. We provide seeds, many of us water along the way, but God births it in the spirit of those who receive. -Michael
The Pursuit Michael E. Wells has a passion for writing letters of Christian encouragement. With poetic style and moving messages, the reader is often comforted and consoled, inspired, and refreshed. Since his retirement from Federal Service in 2006, most mornings are spent penning letters of the heart. Tucked away in the foothills of Pennsylvania, he leads an idyllic lifestyle in a pastoral setting. This backdrop helps to set both mood and message for his many writings. You can find his book, “Morning Coffee with Words For The Day” at Amazon.com.
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In our desire to follow after God, we often stumble and sometimes fall. We condemn ourselves for the slip-up, thinking about how could this happen once again. It is sometimes hard to live with our own thoughts screaming at us, much less the voice of someone else. But in our pursuit, if we would just briefly glance back to where we were, it would encourage us to see we are not that person we once were. Not only are we running from something, we are running to something. The Bible states God intended we would seek Him, reach out, and find Him. Though He is never far from us. But King David knew a secret in his seeking, that if he did, goodness and mercy would follow him all the days of his life. God was also there following, as He is with us today, to pick us up when we, too, stumble in the pursuit.
Faith For Life
Great Day For A Race
“Make it your goal to live a quiet life, minding your own business and working with your hands, just as we instructed you before.” “Pray for all those in authority that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence.” So Paul writes to the church in Thessalonica and to his son in the faith, Timothy. At the same time, the writer of Hebrews reminds us not to be sluggish in our belief. He tells us our continued belief in the promise of God for salvation will be the anchor for our soul. If we keep our eyes fixed on the prize, we will not be tossed to and fro on the world’s sea of doubt. A simple instruction but seemingly complex in its keeping.
Words were spoken to me at a crowded local diner by an older man who had just given up his table for our party of 3. My response to the gentleman who now sat at the next table with a stranger who had agreed to the new seating arrangement was, “What race is that?” He said, “The human race.” We laughed. He had many other jokes during our meal, but that one stayed with me. I thought to myself, yes but what is humanity racing towards?
Over time, the optimism of youth confronts the reality of routine. For many, the present has not turned out the way the future was envisioned. But what of faith? Paul said if, in this life only, do we hope we are of all people most miserable and to be pitied. We live a life of faith for a promised life of peace. I have faith enough today to overcome any doubts about my tomorrow. Life is not in the shock and awe of events but in the steady and guided pursuit of faith. It is your assurance of things hoped for. We are marathon runners in the race for life, not sprinters. Our awards may be few and far apart in this life, but in the next, the prize is assured. All we have to do is make it to the finish line. Paul said all who compete in a race run but only one receives the prize. Run in such a way that you may obtain it. No matter where you place in the race today, know that the finish line has not moved and the rules have not changed. Slow and steady wins the race and receives the prize. It does not matter those beside you who come and go or the hardship of the terrain before you. Many may fall or simply quit, but you run with eyes on the prize and the banner boldly across your chest... Faith For Life!
The apostle Paul wrote we are all in a race but that we should run in such a way so as to obtain the prize and why... for our prize is eternal. The Bible states in the last days, people will be running to and fro, back and forth. Mundane repetition without meaningful purpose. Sometimes we who have eternity in mind are detoured by the tediousness of life. The inconsequential can consume good intentions and keep us spinning on a wire wheel exhausted but going nowhere. Priorities in life are important. It’s the difference between getting by and getting on. Between survival and satisfaction. Many times in life, we need to downsize, to lighten our load, to make sure our priorities will take us across the line. Jesus asked, what would the benefit be in someone gaining the whole world but losing their soul? With that in mind, lace up your shoes, grab the map and run in such a way that you may obtain the prize because... it’s a great day for the race.
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The Good Portion by Nicole Byrum
“My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” (Psalm 73:26 NIV) It’s been a busy summer for the Byrum household. Ball games, golf matches, and swim meets combined with work, house projects, and family functions have kept us hopping! Far too often, my daily list of desired tasks to accomplish seems to exceed the number of hours in a day. Consequently, I often find myself focusing on the details of the day and fussing about getting it all done. However, it’s comforting to know that I am not alone in this. A very good friend of Jesus once felt this way as well. In the busy moments of life, I come back to the words our Lord spoke to her: And Jesus answered and said to her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things. But one thing is needed, …” (Luke 10:41-42 NKJV) It’s a familiar story, Martha busily preparing her home for Jesus and the many guests who were sure to accompany him. I can almost see her in my mind scurrying about the kitchen and living space, trying to make sure all was just as it should be for entertaining. Likely, she was playing the gracious host, ensuring her guests had all they needed. After all, she had Jesus in her home! Given the situation, it makes sense that her heart became angry when she saw her sister sitting at the Master’s feet. As you or I may have done, she indignantly asked Jesus to tell her sister to come help her. 16 | M AG AEVERY Z I N E N ACORNER ME FAITH ON
To the benefit of everyone who has ever read this recorded story, Jesus did not oblige. Instead, he calmly told Martha that she had been distracted and that only one thing was necessary. He then said, “and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:42 NKJV) I often wondered what happened next. Did Martha hang her head as she whispered a soft apology? Or, in silence, did she quickly take a seat next to her sister? As verse 42 is the end of the story, we will have to wait to receive the details in heaven! But if I were to guess, I’d say it was more than likely that Martha never forgot those words. It’s easy to be a Martha, to be worried and distracted with tasks, serving, and wanting everything to be just right. But Martha’s lesson is for us as well: Jesus is the good portion. He is the one necessity in our everyday lives; the source of everything we need. As Acts 17:28 and Colossians 3:11 remind us, in Him we live and move and have our being and He alone is all in all.
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Whatever our day holds, be it child-rearing, meetings, or checking off countless items on our to-do list, nothing we can accomplish in a day compares to sitting at the feet of Jesus. He is our highest treasure and our great inheritance. He is the One who never fails us. The psalmist reflected this truth when he wrote, “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” (Psalm 73:26 NIV) As we continue to live in the chaos and business of our schedules; when we find ourselves fretting about how to “do it all,” let us remember that only one thing is necessary. Like Mary, let us choose the good portion.
Click on book covers to purchase books on Amazon.
Nicole is a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 14 years of experience in community mental health. She is the author of Remade: Living Free a book written for women in recovery from substance abuse and unhealthy relationships. Nicole also maintains a blog at nicolebyrum.com as well as a podcast, 5 Minute Word. Both focus on topics related to faith and relationships. She lives in Northwest Ohio with her husband and two children. When she’s not writing, you can find her reading, running, or cooking.
WWW.FAITHONEVERYCORNER.COM WMW W.AFA E VEE&O RYCO M AG Z IINTEH O NN AM R URRNLE R|.CO12 17
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Mission Trip Lessons by Yvonne M. Morgan
Several years back, my husband and I visited Kenya on a mission trip. The trip consisted of only three of us, which made for easy planning. We planned many meetings for strategic planning purposes and discussion of future help for the area. Unfortunately, it was the rainy season, and our plans included visiting a rural village to pick up some handmade baskets for a project. So, to reach the area, we needed to travel down dirt roads. As the vehicle bounced down the narrow lane, I noticed that the mud grew deeper and deeper. I started worrying as we slowly bobbed along the rugged path. Soon, the tires sunk deeper and after a few more minutes, they just spun and spun. Finally, we realized the van had become stuck. And, here in the middle of rural Kenya, we had no cell service. We got out of the truck to evaluate our situation, which appeared dire to me. I had no idea how we would get out of this one. My AAA service could not help us here. So instead, I used the form of communication that never fails me. I prayed for God’s help.
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As we stood and looked at the van in despair, I noticed a man walking toward us. He stared uneasily at the wazungu (Swahili for white people) stuck in the mud. Yes, God to the rescue. But then he left as quickly as he came, and my heart sank a little as the sweat dripped down my back. Soon, I plopped down on a dry grassy patch as misery swamped my soul. The area’s isolation caused my heart to beat faster as I pictured us dying in this spot. And with only three of us, we had no good options for splitting up to get help because any plan would require someone to be alone in the bush. I prayed and begged God to rescue us. After a while, I detected a rustling in the bushes down the lane. My heart pounded harder, and my palms grew damp as visions of roaming lions popped into my head. I decided that this might be the end for us. Then, the man I saw earlier stepped out of the bushes again. And I noticed several other men standing behind him, and fear filled my soul. As they gathered around us, I prayed again for God’s protection. Next, I noticed one man raise his hand, and I ducked for cover. I realized he had motioned for one of us to get behind the wheel of our truck. And then the entire group started pushing. Bill got behind the wheel, and I walked to the back of the vehicle to help. I quickly sank to my ankles in the muck as I took my place on the bumper. It took us a while, but finally, we freed our little truck from its mud shackles. We cheered and hooted with our rescuers, and I offered thanks to God for sending these strangers to help and asked for forgiveness for doubting Him as we waited.
Here are some Bible verses to help us remember God is the best resource when we face situations out of our control. • Proverbs 18:10 (NIV) The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run into it and are safe. • Psalm 9:9-10 (NIV) The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. • 1 Chronicles 16:11 (NIV) Seek the LORD and his strength; seek his presence continually! • Isaiah 26: 3-4 (NIV) Those of steadfast mind you keep in peace—because they trust in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for in the Lord God you have an everlasting rock.
Yvonne M Morgan, Christian author and speaker https://yvonne-morgan.com
Blog at Turningmountainsintomolehills.org Twitter: @ymmauthor
Prayer
Website: Yvonne-Morgan.com
“Heavenly Father, guide me and direct me as I seek to love strangers the way You love them. Help me take risks in this world that require Your protection from the evil one. I want to live “dangerously” for Your glory, Lord. In Jesus’ Name, Amen” ~ Stephanie Raquel
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/YMMauthor/ Books: Turning Mountains into Molehills (2017)
Click on the link below to find out more about Yvonne’s books!
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Gina Sewell is a mom and grandma who lives in the Dallas, Texas area, where she enjoys cooking and spending time with her family. She loves to write about Jesus and encourage others. Gina shares her journey on her website: http://www.ginabartonsewell.wordpress.com
Every Step Of The Way By Gina Sewell
It’s funny how we tend to think it’s the end of the world when some little thing goes wrong. Whether it’s a small thing or even a big thing, it’s certainly not the end of the world. But somehow that’s what we focus on. We can have a hundred good things going on in our lives and we will focus on that one bad thing and bring ourselves down. We all have a thorn in our side as Paul talks about in 2 Corinthians, chapter 12. Mine would have to be my fibromyalgia—that’s a big thorn. Even though life is going really well, sometimes it’s hard to look past the pain I feel each and every day. Sometimes I just want to stay in my bed all day and feel sorry for myself. But then I think, “I’ve got this wonderful husband, I’ve got awesome kids, I have a job, I have a nice place to live.” There was a time I didn’t have any of those things. There was a time I was homeless, addicted, and abused. I have lost loved ones. I’ve been through so much and for God to bring me back up from the pit, the way he has, well, it makes me feel guilty for feeling bad about one thing out of a million good things.
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So, I keep going. I put one foot in front of the other and I get through my day. Some days are easier than others. Some days are really difficult, but I do it because I know what God has done for me and I know he’s with me every step of the way. “And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.” (2 Corinthians 12:7-10 KJV)
AUGUST PRAYER By Craig and Karen Ruhl
Heavenly Father, We come to you and praise you for your faithfulness. Lord, there are so many people who need your loving touch. And so many who still need to come to you. We pray that the Good News reaches those who are seeking. Lord, we ask for prayers for all the areas that need rain. We pray for the crops around the world and for the livestock. For the farmers, ranchers, and for all of us who rely on the food they produce. Lord, guide each of us as we repent of our sins. Help us change our lives so that all we do honors you. We pray that each of us uses the gifts and talents you have given us to further your kingdom and teach the unknowing world of your mightiness, grace, and mercy through your Son and our Lord, Jesus Christ. Amen
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Peace In Troubled Times by Dave Evans
Dave Evans recently retired from his career as an estimator for an electrical contractor, but still works part-time. He recently served as Body Care Pastor for a small church and previously taught at a local Bible College for several years. God led him to found and serve in several outreach ministries—a pet therapy ministry, visiting several skilled nursing facilities and retirement homes: a prayer booth on a local street corner to allow people in the community to stop by for prayer needs and an evangelism table, typically set up once a month at various malls or stores, which made Bibles, tracts, DVDs, and other Christian materials available free of charge to interested shoppers. Dave has a bachelor’s degree in business administration/management. As a writer, he has had many poems and articles published in various periodicals and books. And he’s been privileged to do volunteer work for a local police department.
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BREAKING NEWS: More dead and injured in an epidemic of mass shootings; Crisis at the border; Furor, protests, and vandalism over Supreme Court decision on Roe vs. Wade; Coronavirus cases rising; Gas prices soaring; LGTBQ+ issues; Gender dysphoria; Inflation; Free speech under fire; Racial tensions; New Gallup Poll shows only 20% of Americans believe the Bible is the literal word of God; changing policies; general uncertainty… These are some of the things happening to life as we have known it. Things and policies seem to be changing day-to-day. How can we be composed? How can we cope with our new “normal”? Can we, as Christians, even think of having peace as we navigate our changing landscape? Consider another time of uncertainty when life, as it had been, would be drastically changed overnight. This was on the eve of the crucifixion of Jesus. Let’s take a look at what He said to His disciples that night. “I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33 NLT)
These words that Jesus spoke to His disciples in the Upper Room the night before His crucifixion were the conclusion to the Upper Room discourse that begins in John chapter thirteen. Life, as the disciples had known it for over three years, was about to be drastically different. Judas Iscariot had already gone out to betray Jesus; Peter would soon deny Jesus, and the other disciples would all flee. Then, Jesus would be crucified and subsequently interred in a tomb. He would be gone and they would have to live life without Him; but although they didn’t understand it at the time, He would still be with them, though not bodily. In John 16:33, Jesus said He had told them things so that they might have peace in Him. What were some of those things He had spoken to them? Well, although comprehension would come later, He had told them He would be going away from them. Yet, He said He wouldn’t leave them orphans (John 14:18) but that He would come to them. This would be in the person of the Holy Spirit who would be sent to come and reside in their hearts and who would teach them and help them.
He foretold of the tribulation, distress, afflictions, and sorrows they would have in this world. He also told them of the power they would have in prayer when they asked the Father in His name. (John 16:23-24). And He concluded by telling them that although they would have trials and sorrows here on earth, they could find peace in Him. They could do this because He was (would be) victorious over the world. So, believers, take heart, have courage, and experience peace in Jesus by trusting in Him, knowing He is the victor, the one who has overcome the world. Consider these words of commentary: “Christ’s victory is the objective reality which makes valid the inward gift of His peace.”
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I am Joseph, an author, blogger, and content writer from Nigeria. In the field of writing, I deliver unique, grammatically correct, and plagiarism-free content. Currently, I work with three online firms specializing in motivation, human capacity development, lifestyle, relationship, and spiritual writings. You can find Joseph on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/groups/2228667160717043
A Good Success By Joseph Akinrinola
Everyone desires success. God wants His children to be successful. While there is success, God wants His children to have genuine success. It goes to say there is success that is no good if we don’t have what the Bible calls good success. The following scriptures highlight the clarity and the difference between the two. “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.” (Joshua 1:8 KJV) The blessing of the LORD makes one rich, And He adds no sorrow with it. (Proverbs 10:22 NKJV) Thus, the following are a few attributes of genuine success: 1. It follows God’s pattern of achievement. God operates by principle. While people are only interested in the result, God is concerned about how you got the result. This is akin to how a mathematics teacher is not merely interested in the students getting the answer, but how they arrived at the answer. Therefore, God’s kind of success must follow the pattern of righteousness and honesty. This is when you could term such a success as good. Getting success at the expense of others or fraudulently getting a breakthrough is not a genuine success.
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2. It glorifies God. What do you have that you are not given? (1 Corinthians 4:7) Since it is God that gave you the breakthrough odds, you are to return all the glory to Him. Using your prosperity to glorify God is acknowledging Him as the giver of such blessing. Glorifying God means using your position and prosperity for godly purposes that benefit not only you, but others. Jesus told us about the parable of the rich fool. (Luke 12:16-21) The problem with the man was not because he was strategic. It was not because he was planning for the future. After all, wisdom dictates your plan for tomorrow. However, he never acknowledged God as the giver of his success or included others in his plan for tomorrow. You should not forget the admonition of Apostle James on planning our life based on God’s permission. (James 4:13-15) 3. It draws the beneficiary closer to God. Most times, people tend to redirect their attention away from God for their prosperity once they achieved what they wanted. A story was once told about this lifestyle. A couple was consistently coming to a church program, prayer, vigil, and counseling while they are trusting God for a child. They stop coming once the child came. After a while, the pastor visited them to ask why they were no longer consistent in church. In response, the husband asked the pastor if a patient stays in the hospital after receiving his treatment? The man told the pastor they came to church because they were looking for a child. Now that they got what they were looking for, why should they continue to come to church?
That was not how to handle God’s blessing. God’s kind of success is such that developed your trust further in God. It increases your confidence in God, not only because of what He has done, but because He would sustain the blessing He gave you. That is what genuine success is. 4. When the success positively affects others. Genuine success is that which affects the lives of others. God has placed all the money and wealth we all needed in the hands of a few people. What God expected is for the few to share it equitably with others. You are not truly successful if the success revolves around you. The number of people enjoying your prosperity is an indicator of true wealth. A Nigerian adage says, one rich man among a hundred poor men is poor as well. You have godly success if those around you have a feeling of it. The centurion and Cornelius are examples of people whose success imparted lives outside their families. (Acts 10, Luke 7:1-10) 5. When you are the master of success. The prosperity that will make you lose your sleep is not God’s kind of success. Examine yourself if you are afraid of the tax department wanting to check your tax return form. Surely, you do not have a God kind of success if you raise an eyebrow whenever the government comes up with a new policy on accountability and transparency in running businesses. Jesus told us about the young, rich man. The scripture concluded the man left Jesus dejected because he had many possessions. (Matthew 19:22) But a closer look at the story reveals it was many possessions that had that man. While the Bible condemns wastage, it does not support frugality at the expense of your wellbeing. You should use wealth and prosperity for the glory of God, others, and yourself. It becomes abnormal if you are so concerned about losing your money that you can’t enjoy the basic needs of life. Though you should not be glued to things, you cannot be heaven conscious, but become earthly irrelevant. God’s kind of success begins and ends with God. Anything short of that is not the will of God. Let me conclude that success is more about how much you give than how much you accumulate. You will seek God’s kind of success if you know truly successful people are people who enjoyed the best of the two worlds. They enjoy the best of God on earth and still make it to eternity like Abraham and the likes. Apostle Paul gave believers a warning about our value in his word:
“If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are of all people most to be pitied.” (1 Corinthians 15:19 NIV) Therefore, do everything to be successful but ensure it follows God’s pattern. Then you can claim to have good success. Joseph Akinrinola lives in Lagos, Nigeria, with his wife and four adorable children. He served with the Gospel Faith Mission International for over three decades. Besides, he is a Sunday school coach, an author, a blogger, and a freelance. He has served in Sunday school for over three decades. His friends and students call him “Mr. Sunday school”. Joseph has published five books with two classics titled “Effective Sunday School Management Made Simple” and “Effective Sunday School Teacher.” While with the Gospel Faith Mission International, he was a regional coordinator. He oversees the activities of the Sunday school in over a hundred and twenty churches. Then, he sat on the extended board of his Sunday school writing the weekly and daily devotionals read by over 2 million readers globally. Currently, he is the pastor of a new church, the Levites Chapel International, Lagos, Nigeria. His passion is to reach young people with the Bible truth about relationships, Christian lifestyle, and personal development. This informs the creation of his blog, www.thewisdombase.com. In addition, he writes for online and international magazines. He is a member of Amnesty International.
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All Things Are Possible By Dr. Irene Surya The night was dark and deep Sans any luminous star. The tunnel was long and winding Sans any light beam in view. Everything looked bleak and fearful Without morning in sight. Nothing seemed possible Everything looked impossible.
Dr. Irene Surya has published a book of poems, In Solitude with God. Her poems have been published in various magazines. She has a passion for writing for the Lord and glorifying the Lord through her writings. She loves and serves the Lord with her husband.
Click on book to purchase on Amazon.
Softly, I heard a whisper, That made my life worthwhile That gave me a reason To hope for the silver lining in the horizon. Trust in the Lord with all your heart Lean not on your understanding, Commit your ways to Him And He will bring it to pass. The Lord encouraged me To smile again at the days ahead, For you have a future And your hope will not be cut off. His gentle smile assured me, Nothing is impossible with God, All things are possible through me, For him, who believes.
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Turn On And Tune In By Craig Ruhl
The other day, a favorite memory from my childhood came to mind. At Christmas, when I was in 4th or 5th grade, my parents gifted me a shortwave radio kit. The manufacturer was Heathkit, and it consisted of bags of resisters, capacitors, rheostats, vacuum tubes, miles of wire, a metal chassis, a case, and a very complicated instruction book. Kids, this was before transistors and circuit boards. No worries, however. My dad was an aeronautical engineer, and our next-door neighbor was an electrical engineer and amateur radio operator. Together, we had that bad boy assembled and literally humming within a week. Soon, my bedroom was filled with crackling static and voices that boomed and faded as I turned the tuning knob to get a better signal. I then used the squelch knob which is used to lessen the background noise or interference always present on the airwaves. Wonder filled my head as I listened to Radio Free Europe and amateur radio operators from around the world. It took a lot of patience and focus to pick a good signal out of a very cluttered atmosphere. The lessons I learned in the many years I used that radio have stood me well in adulthood.
“Then He said to them, “Take heed what you hear. With the same measure you use, it will be measured to you; and to you who hear, more will be given.” (Mark 4:24 NKJV) As Christians, we desire to live our everyday lives in a manner that is pleasing to God. Romans 10:17 (NKJV) states, “So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” Reading, understanding, and thinking about God’s Word are key. Friction comes in the application of what we are taught in how we lead our lives—our relationships, work, leisure, and our faith. The distractions are immense, and they are powerful. We cannot resist the temptations of evil on our own. The Bible says we will not be tempted beyond what we can bear. It also promises that God will provide a way out so we may endure it. (1 Corinthians 10:13)
Like my old shortwave radios, I can tune in to what is good and right. I also have a squelch function where I can adjust my resistance to the bad and tempting interference. The Bible is my foundation, and it is very clear, encouraging, and educational. The Holy Spirit, the helper Jesus promised to send to all us believers, helps me deal with the negatives in life that can throw Much like my shortwave radio hobby, practicing my me off my faith. My fellow Christians whom I can lean Christian faith requires focus and the ability to filter on for support help me stand strong and pliable, bendout the extraneous noise of our modern world. We are ing at times but not broken. under constant clamoring for our attention from a variety of directions: other people, the internet, television, On a clear day, signals are easy to pick up, but on those radio, and the most surreptitious of all—the evil one. stormy ones, we all need to fine-tune our minds and It is difficult to listen to what we know is the true and hearts. Stay strong and keep the faith! faithful whispering of the Holy Spirit guiding us when the volume is turned up and our squelch mechanism is either failing or we just never learned to use it.
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Not My Plan by Kathy Pierson Pain seized my arm as I lay on the cold cement. My head rested on a pillow of freshly fallen snow. My husband ran over to help me up. “I can’t move yet. The pain is too much,” I moaned. My teeth chattered. The temperature was in the teens and I needed to get off the frozen ground. After a few minutes, Gary propped me into a seated position and lifted me. As I placed weight on my right foot, excruciating pain shot through my pelvis. We were retired and in our seventh year of volunteer ministry. Two weeks earlier, we arrived in Wisconsin to work at a facility for mentally impaired adults. We lived in Michigan and were accustomed to snow, but the night before, the wind had taken the two feet that fell and whipped it into six-foot drifts. In the early afternoon, Gary shoveled the front porch and sidewalk so we could venture out to take pictures. Once outside, my foot got tangled in our dog’s tieout. When I tried to catch my balance, I plummeted off the porch. My right elbow hit the concrete first as I subconsciously protected the camera I held. Gary tried scooping me into his arms, but it was too painful. Desperate to get out of the cold, I managed to raise my heels ever-so-slightly and rotate sideways on the balls of my feet. This movement continued a half inch at a time until I reached the steps. “Can you lift me just enough to get my feet on the porch without bending my body?” I gritted my teeth against the pain as Gary carried me to the threshold of the house. When we got inside, Gary retrieved a chair, lowered me onto it, and called 911.
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I held my aching arm and wept. Why God? We’re here serving in Your name. How will I teach the women in the drug and alcohol rehab back home? How will I continue studying to become a biblical counselor? God interrupted my questions to remind me of something a dear friend said after she broke her hip: “Kathy, every time God allowed a trial in my life, I started the journey kicking and screaming my disapproval. This time, I decided to get in the canoe with Jesus and enjoy the scenery along the way.” I wasn’t sure I knew how to enjoy the scenery. I enjoyed staying busy and wasn’t good at being still before the Lord. While I watched the rescue workers approach the house, I decided to take Dorothy’s advice. Right then, I let go of my anxiety, knowing God had a different, but good, plan in mind for the near future. The paramedics applied a sling to my arm and helped me shuffle toward the stretcher they had squeezed into the foyer. Fear gripped my heart as they rolled it down the long, snow-covered driveway. I was relieved when they finally lifted me into the warm ambulance. Several hours later, an orthopedic surgeon entered our cubicle. “Hello, Mrs. Pierson. I just looked at the x-rays and cat scan. Your pelvis is broken but stable and should heal fine on its own. The fracture in your right arm is another story. The elbow is shattered. Since it’s so swollen, I’ll need to wait a couple of weeks before surgically repairing it.”
“If I need to wait that long, can they can do the surgery in Michigan where we live?” “That’s fine if you plan to fly. There are too many risks if you ride in a vehicle. Any more questions?” We shook our heads. “I’ll write your prescriptions while the nurse wraps your arm in a partial cast.” The doctor strode out of the room. I felt overwhelmed. Gary held me while I cried. Late that evening, Gary pulled our van close to the volunteer house, and I began the sideways shuffle to the porch. The temperatures had fallen into the single digits and the wind cut through the paper scrubs I wore. My teeth chattered as my husband placed his coat over my shoulders. Gary slept on the couch so he wouldn’t accidentally bump my broken body. As darkness surrounded me, I wondered what purpose God had in allowing this. My fall hadn’t taken Him by surprise. He had a plan. I drifted to sleep praying He would give us strength and wisdom in the days ahead. Since I volunteered at the nurse’s station, a borrowed wheelchair, hospital bed and side table were only a call away. While we waited for the maintenance men to deliver the equipment the next morning, we made plans to stay in Wisconsin the rest of the week until I felt stronger. Later that day, I noticed a look of distress on my husband’s face. “Do you remember when we started volunteer work?” I asked. “We said we would put our plans on the calendar in pencil—and give God the eraser. Maybe this is how we find out if we really meant it.” Soon thereafter, we wrote down the many blessings we encountered on this unexpected journey. Every day, we added to our list and often referred to it when we felt discouraged. When our travel day arrived, my husband helped me into the volunteer coordinator’s car so she could take me to the airport. Gary then hit the road in our van with our dog and personal belongings.
On our first night home, I slept on the couch with the back of the sofa supporting my arm. The hospital bed wouldn’t be delivered until the next morning. We were both exhausted, so sleep came quickly. A few weeks later, I chatted on the phone with a friend suffering from Lou Gehrig’s disease. Like me, she was now in a wheelchair, but unlike me, the abilities she lost would not be reclaimed with time and therapy. When I hung up from our time of encouraging one another, it dawned on me that, before my accident, my busy schedule would never have allowed time for this unhurried conversation. I marveled at how God could use me to bless others from a hospital bed in the middle of my living room. Turns out, I didn’t need to be busy for the Lord to be used by Him. In the following months, I endured weeks in a wheelchair with a painful pelvis, surgery to place a plate in my broken elbow, two months of therapy, eight months wearing splints to help the arm bend and straighten, and a second operation to have the hardware removed. During my recuperation, God provided encouragement through texts, emails, phone calls, and cards. He met our needs through meals brought by friends and our church family. The Lord also blessed me with excellent care from Gary and our neighbors. Pain, loss of control, and dependence on others isn’t the route I would have chosen. I wouldn’t have planned this journey for myself, but God showed me His plans for my life are infinitely better than anything I could imagine. My whole life, I’d been a planner and a doer, but now God let me experience something new—and it was beautiful. Kathy Pierson is a freelance writer who migrated with her husband to North Carolina in 2013 to be near their two children and three grandchildren. Kathy desires to write inspirational stories to encourage others in their walk of faith. Other articles by her have been published in Now What?, Nature Friend Magazine, Power For Living, the anthology-Broken Moments, and in her local newspaper.
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Summer Clouds by Sharon K. Connell Sitting in our backyard one afternoon, I gazed up at the clouds flying by. What a beautiful sight. Fluffy, white, whipped cream clouds against a peacock blue sky. The sun’s rays beamed down and warmed me. I smiled.
But, whenever something comes between me and The Light, I no longer get the benefit of God’s rays. The longer there is something between me and God, the cooler I become.
The moon, a type for the Christian.
Sitting out in the sun, I have no control over what comes between me and the Earth’s sun. Whatever is up in the sky is too far for me to reach to pull it away. But when it comes to God the Father and things in my life that get in the way of our communication and fellowship, I have all the power. I can decide to get rid of the things in my life that come between God and me.
“For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.” (2 Corinthians 4:6)
“But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:” (Matthew 6:20)
The sun shines a light on the moon, and the light is reflected down upon the earth. In like manner, God shines His Light off the Christian onto others. When the sun is shining, the rays of light fall onto everyone below, as long as there is no obstruction in the path of its beams. So, is the way with God’s Light. It freely shines down on every being. It’s only when people put up an obstruction that they do not feel God’s warming Light.
Whether it’s people, things, actions, etc. that get between you and God, because you’ve put those things first in your life instead of God, you have a choice. You can keep whatever it is blocking God’s warmth and blessing, or you can get it out of the way and put God first in your life.
The Earth’s sun is representative of God the Father. “For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly.” (Psalm 84:11)
As I relaxed, basking in the sun’s rays, I considered those types. A few clouds rolled in off the Gulf and blocked the sun’s rays. My skin grew cooler. God shines His Light down on me, a Christian, teaching me, admonishing me, guiding me, blessing me. I absorb that Light to shine onto others in my path throughout the day. 30 | M AG A Z I N E N A M E PAGE 3 30
It’s all up to me and you. “His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.” (Matthew 25:23) (All Scripture is from the King James Authorized 1611 Version)
Click on photo to order Sharon’s books.
Author Sharon K. Connell has lived in many places across the United States. She retired from the clerical-medical field in 2012 and now writes full-time. Sharon lives with her husband in Houston, Texas, from where she writes Christian Romance Suspense, containing a bit of mystery and as much humor as she can get into a story. She has three grown children, and eight grandchildren, all living elsewhere in the country. Sharon attended college in Illinois, graduated from the Pensacola Bible Institute in Florida, and holds a certificate in fiction writing from the International Writing Program through the University of Iowa. Sharon is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers, Scribes Critique Group, Houston Writers Guild, Christian Women Writers, and CyFair Writers. She is the founder of the global Facebook Christian Writers & Readers group forum. Her monthly newsletter, Novel Thoughts, goes out every month to its subscribers in all parts of the world, featuring helpful information for writers and readers.
Walking In Twilight And Eternity by Dave Evans
Out into the darkness before dawn I venture in the twilight of my life, Treading concrete and asphalt pathways, A daily routine Into the light that shines evermore I’ll find my way out in my first day in eternity To traverse streets of gold, An eternal practice “The twelve gates were twelve pearls: each individual gate was of one pearl. And the street of the city was pure gold, like transparent glass.” (Revelation 21:21 NKJV)
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Paula considers herself an ordinary Christian woman traversing through the wilderness of an everyday mess. She is a retired Social Worker with a BSW who lives in Western Pennsylvania with her emotional support dog, a spoiled rotten amusing beagle named Little Girl. She has two adult daughters off doing their own thing. Please visit her blog at: https://simplycoffeeandjesus.com/
The God Who Stays By Paula Short
“You’re such a blubbering mess; Jesus has us,” I say to my dog as her tongue sticks to my arm while driving. She’s been riding in the car with me several times a week for a few years now. And she’s not a fan of car rides. She throws fur, drools, shakes, and yes, when she’s close enough to me, her tongue sticks to my arm. The funny thing is that she’s such a blubbering mess when we’re in the car; I always try to comfort her with soothing words and a pat on the head. This frequently brings to mind characteristics of our loving Father. Do you ever get discouraged, thinking that maybe God could possibly get fed up with our imperfect lives and leave us, too? I have to be honest—sometimes the thought pops into my head. However, when we dig deep into Scripture, God’s breathed words are a comforting reminder for us that no matter who’s walked out on us in our lives or who has left us, there is one who never will.
Let’s look at some of the many characteristics of God: God is with us—Isaiah 41:10 NIV. God is our Refuge and Help—Psalm 46:1 NIV. God is Loving—1 John 3:1 NIV. God is Faithful and Righteous—Psalm 145:17 NIV. God is Forgiving and Merciful—1 John 1:9 NIV. God is Powerful and Mighty—Psalm 24:8 NIV. God is Holy—1 Samuel 2:2 NIV. God is Sovereign and Just—Psalm 103:19 NIV. God is Good—Psalm 34:8 NIV. God is Compassionate and Gracious—Psalm 103:8 NIV. It’s priceless and light-hearted that while in the car, my dog, who does not know who God is, always brings to mind characteristics of our faithful benevolent Father, our God, the one who stays and never leaves. May these words bring you peace and comfort too.
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Road Trippin’ Near By! Valdese, NC by Karen Ruhl
We are so tickled to be out and about again. In July, we needed to stay close to home until Craig had his follow-up to his aortic valve replacement. We have been cleared to move about the country again! Craig and I often go to Valdese, North Carolina for lunch at 100 Main Street Restaurant. They have fantastic food and great servers. While there, I picked up a brochure called The Arrival. The story talks about the original settlers of the Town of Valdese. Their history is filled with survival, courage, and hard work along with strong faith. Here are a few photos of the monument created in the summer of 2018 to commemorate the arrival. Their story is touching and inspiring.
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If you would like to learn more, click on these links www.visitvaldese.com and the Trail of Faith https://www. waldensiantrailoffaith.org/ The Trail Of Faith has a beautiful Christmas display as well. The story of their struggle to come over by ship to the United States and build their homes on an uncleared piece of land is remarkable. They held their first worship service at the location.
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Craig and I have found that many locals do not explore their own cities and are amazed at what they find when they do. This park is also in Valdese, right on Main Street! Karen-Ruhl.pixels.com
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Ready for a beautiful hike around the Lake? Valdese built a wonderful hiking park called Valdese Lakeside Park. It borders Lake Rhodhiss. The park will be connected to McGalliard Falls with a 150-foot bridge over McGalliard Creek. Bring a picnic lunch, your fishing poles, and your dog! There is a beautiful dog park too. You can kayak and fish here as well. What a great community park.
Lenoir, NC community garden
While out driving in Lenoir, a neighboring city to Hudson (our hometown), we visited the community gardens. Such a beautiful place to walk around and purchase produce and plants.
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Dissatisfaction Has A Voice By Ama Afriyie-Jenkins
“We have a “profit” that is greater than theirs—our holy awe of God! To have merely our necessities is to have enough.” (1 Timothy 6:6 TPT) The secret to happiness in life is not in wistful thinking; perhaps if this, this, and that happens, then I’ll be content. These are lies suggested by the enemy. We are designed as insatiable beings— nothing in this world can ever satisfy us. To emphasize this point, those who already have what we strongly desire are still not the happiest people on earth. Truthfully, when we finally get our utmost desires fulfilled, our insatiable appetite is triggered again and we begin to feel discontent and search for more gratification. Sadly, this is a never-ending cycle. Do we sometimes feel like someone else is living in our answered prayers? We look over to their fence and they have received what we constantly pray for. How many of us can truly admit, “I want the grass growing on my neighbor’s property.” From our limited perspective, it’s even more disconcerting to see that they incessantly complain and don’t even value it that much. Our deepest longings are always a mirage and unhappiness finds us wanting a life we don’t have. The dismal truth is that what we need for an adequate human existence is not found in lavish places or things or lofty ideas but in basic necessities, by which we should derive true contentment as stated in 1 Timothy 6:7-8 (TPT), “Isn’t it true that our hands were empty when we came into the world, and when we leave this world our hands will be empty again? Because of this, food and clothing is enough to make us content.” 38 | M AG A Z I N E N A M E PAGE 38
Can we sincerely be happy for others and congratulate them on their breakthroughs? In the heat of the moment, our chest usually tightens, and our throats become dry. We begin to feel lightheaded and we are awash with emotions of envy, pain, confusion, and self-pity. It is a timely reminder of what God hasn’t done for us and the last emotion we want to express is happiness. We feel indignant that God chose to answer their prayers ahead of ours. What makes it even more difficult to fathom is when we have been waiting longer than them, but they receive their testimony before us. We begin to wonder if God even hears our prayers at all? The Bible encourages us to, “Celebrate with those who celebrate, and weep with those who grieve.” (Romans 12:15 TPT). It’s very easy to mourn with those who are mourning, but how well do we rejoice with those who are rejoicing when they have received something we are still praying for? Dissatisfaction has a voice. This voice creeps into your thoughts and suggests….. You deserve her husband….. You need to have his job… If only you could have smart children like that…. Why is she always happy…. You are a Christian so you deserve it more….. Why don’t you also have the latest car….. Why do they earn more income… Ensure you have an elaborate wedding like that….. Why isn’t she your wife instead…. What did you do wrong to merit such a mediocre life…. He is excelling in life and you are just stuck…. If only your husband was that rich too…. The list is endless! Here’s the shift: “… and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5 ESV). God quells our insatiability by offering himself as the
Ama Afriyie-Jenkins has a special affinity for gender, sustainable development, and global governance. She and her husband live in Accra, Ghana with their three children and they shepherd a non-denominational Christian fellowship, Inspirational Hour Ministries. Ama remembers loving to write from an early age and she is a voracious reader. She has a heart for girl-child education and women’s economic empowerment in rural communities in Ghana. You can connect with her via email: ammajenkins@gmail.com, on Facebook, and on LinkedIn (@Ama Afriyie-Jenkins).
Alpha and Omega of our satisfaction. The secret to lasting happiness is found in Him alone and godliness with contentment is great gain. (1 Timothy 6:6 ESV). When we hear temptations to desire more and better, which voice do we listen to? Money is a treacherous master many of us are yet to subdue. Financial blessings are very good but don’t slave to make your bank account rise to match your desires. Endeavor to bring your desires down to match what God has already put in your bank account. We are reminded that the answer to happiness is not in bigger and better, but in simpler and being more grateful. “Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have. But those who crave the wealth of this world slip into spiritual snares. They become trapped by the troubles that come through their foolish and harmful desires, driven by greed and drowning in their own sinful pleasures. And they take others down with them into their corruption and eventual destruction. Loving money is a root of all evils. Some people run after it so much that they have given up their faith. Craving more money pushes them away from the faith into error, compounding misery in their lives!” (1 Timothy 6:5, 7-10 TPT).
When we come to God’s presence weary, He changes our focus from what He can offer us to who He is. He gives our souls rest from discontentment and misguided search for worldly satisfaction. Our neighbor’s grass will always grow greener when we fix our attention on it and neglect ours. If we can shift our perspective to our own gardens, we will find true contentment and love the life we have better. Whenever we are tempted to think that someone else is living in our answered prayers, remember that you are also living in someone else’s answered prayer. Let’s be grateful for all that the Lord has graciously bestowed upon us and find godly contentment in Him alone.
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Steve Carter lives in Tupelo, Mississippi and has served for over 50 years in Christian ministry. He had peddled across the continental United States, twice. Steve may be contacted by email at: Msroadkill@bellsouth.net
The Extra Mile By Steve Carter
After stowing my camping gear into the equipment truck, I climbed onto my bicycle and rode into the cool, fog-shrouded Black Hills. Following several hundred miles of getting early starts on my cross-country charity ride, I had grown to appreciate it when the sun started to “pink” up the horizon. Kadoka faded from sight while the growing daylight outlined the pitted road toward Pierre, Illinois.
Aside from doing my part in getting the names across the country, I towed it as a way of thanking a very special lady who welcomed my visits to the home she shared with three daughters. As a teenaged rock and roll drummer growing up in central Florida, my life could best be described as “dysfunctional,” on a good day. My status as a social outcast meant nothing to her, and she always greeted me with a big smile and the best biscuits known to man! I included her name in the “chain” because of the lung cancer she suffered. While pulling into camp that evening, I had a smile on my face thinking of this genteel southern lady.
This morning turned out special because I had hooked the “chain of hope” to my bicycle. These covered two-wheeled wagons were designed to carry small children. However, ours served a different purpose. The names of several hundred cancer survivors or those who had died from cancer were That evening, around suppertime, I picked up word looped together in a paper chain, installed in the around camp that the next day’s ride had been declared All Women Day. I perked up my ears to find wagon, and pulled across the country. out what that amounted to. Over twenty years later, Much like the relationships of active church mem- I still do not know where the men who decided to bers, the feelings of community grew stronger daily. participate by riding “drag” came up with the clothI soon found myself more at ease with some of the ing, or the guts to wear them in the mid-western riders than with people I had known for years. With part of America! From a distance, I saw and heard the many words of encouragement ringing in my much hooting and heckling while men tried on fullears, I soon gave way to reflecting on my reasons for length evening gowns, jewelry, shawls, and the like. pulling the trailer. With no feminine side to my name, I had no interest in wearing anything that would likely get caught in my bicycle chain. So, in the twinkling of an eye, I rode alone and stuck to my skin-tight spandex clothing.
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I slept a little late the next morning, so the All Women Day crowd could proceed without me. Thinking everyone had cleared out while I packed up, I pushed my bike out toward the road. Suddenly, up walked one of my riding buddies wearing a miniskirt, shawl, beads, and mustache! So, off we went, well behind the crowd and enjoying the Sunday morning and lack of traffic. Other than my friend having trouble riding in a miniskirt, we ran into no problems until my front tire went flat. I flipped my bike over and almost had the tube changed when my partner started telling me to “hurry up Carter; we need to get out of here.” I asked, “what’s wrong?” and quickly found out that, packed into the front seat of a pickup truck, three very large, mean-looking men had slowly cruised by a few times. These rather burley mid-western types looked like they were not happy with either one of us, so moving slightly slower than the speed of light, I mounted my tire and we “got out of Dodge.”
This story touched on a couple of days during a charity cross-country bicycle ride I took part in. As expected, riding over 3,000 miles included some pretty tough days! That trip had its special set of “mountains to climb”, literally and figuratively. However, I’m sure everyone reading this fights their way through, regularly, “heart aching” and “back-breaking” difficulties. These are more than equal to those I fought my way through and have nothing to do with riding a bicycle!
Before seeing Jesus’s face live and in person, we will continue struggling to keep our promises. Our good intentions and best efforts aren’t always equal to the challenges, and we don’t follow through on all our commitments. Times like this are when determined “soldiers of the cross,” step forth and “take up the slack” by filling the void and doing the work. Whether it be pulling a trailer or mowing a yard, the need is there and the reward for completion is much greater than any inconvenience involved with giving One stipulation of this day stated that only women a helping hand. would pull the Chain of Hope. I thought nothing of it until I stopped at a water station to find it aban- I know all about this stuff. I spend a lot of time doned. The rest stop crew said no one wanted to pull climbing back up after falling short. That’s all right, the trailer because of the narrow road. That didn’t get moving, hook up to the “Chains of Hope” in your sit well with me, so I hooked it up to my bike and life, and rock on! rode into traffic, heading East. Pulling the “Chain,” under normal circumstances, proved the rider to be a superior athlete who, after making a commitment to something, intended to see it through. While not willing to leave it stranded, I had not prepared myself mentally or physically for the extra effort involved in thirty miles of hills and headwinds. My shawl-wearing riding partner told me later that he looked over at me a time or two and found me with closed eyes and gritted teeth leaning into the wind while struggling up a hill. But pull it I did and thought nothing of taking up someone else’s slack.
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Welcome Home By Nicole Byrum Reviewed by Craig and Karen Ruhl It blesses us to have contributed to the design and editing of this wonderful book. Nicole Byrum combines her professional insights about successful family life, along with her Christian faith in writing about the family unit and that culture being our primary mission field. The importance of maintaining the psychological and emotional health and integrity of our families can not be overstressed. This book provides a firm foundation for understanding and being proactive in our roles as parents and grandparents. Welcome Home provides easy-to-understand principles, underwritten by solid biblical references, as well as suggested actions and reactions that the reader can include in their lives to effect positive change within the family. In each chapter, Welcome Home includes Questions for Reflection that offer the reader the opportunity to interact and reflect on the points the author raises. This is an excellent tool for parents and grandparents who may be charged with raising children. Parental study groups will find this book very worthwhile. We are excited to recommend this book to our readers and to place a copy on the Faith On Every Corner Bookshelf.
Call For Writers For Faith On Every Corner Magazine We are looking for testimonials, acts of service, devotions, and articles of how you have witnessed God working in your life or the life of family and friends. Email for submission guidelines. Team@FaithOnEveryCorner.com 42 | M AG A Z I N E N A M E PAGE 3
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Faith On Every Corner Bookshelf Seven Letters from Patmos By Ruth Aird Reviewed by Craig Ruhl Seven Letters from Patmos is a beautifully written study of the seven letters to the churches describes in the Book of Revelation in the Bible. The importance of this book lies in the relation between what John described in his original writings and what is occurring within our churches today. Ruth Aird takes us on the journey of John’s exile to the Isle of Patmos and examines the letters he wrote to the churches in what is modern-day Turkey. More than a ‘wake-up call’, this book causes us to dig deep into our beliefs and faith and compare that to the way we are living our lives, personally, as well as in the church. I found reading Seven Letters from Patmos gave me a better understanding of the meaning contained in the last book of the Bible. The exceptional degree of care and research the author has taken in writing this book makes John’s message(s) clear and understandable. The staff at Faith On Every Corner recommend this book to our readers and are pleased to place a copy on our Bookshelf.
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Then I Am Strong By Laurie Glass When it all closes in, one problem, then the next, when it feels like too much, and I’m discouraged and perplexed, I find it so draining, my resolve is waning. Laurie Glass has a heart for encouraging others through her writing. She has had many poems and articles published in both print and online publications. In addition, she won the Open Medicine Foundation poetry contest in 2019.
But I find divine help is well within my grasp. As I’m held up by God, my might wells up, I stand and gasp. It’s where the power is as I find my strength in His. I hope to remember as the future unfolds, in the difficult times, His power’s mine to have and hold. When fortitude is gone, when I am weak, then I am strong. Inspired by 2 Corinthians 12:10. “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.” (NIV)
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Steve Carter lives in Tupelo, Mississippi and has served for over 50 years in Christian ministry. He had peddled across the continental United States, twice. Steve may be contacted by email at: Msroadkill@bellsouth.net
Saved By The Mailman By Steve Carter
After leaving my hotel and peddling across the street, which still radiated yesterday’s heat, I turned east onto a bridge to cross the Mississippi River and leave Keokuk, Iowa. My faithful steed, a recumbent trike, was running smoother than I felt. The threewheeled machine, with a wide seat, sat low to the pavement. It was built so that my weary legs did most of the work. No tears stained my face, as today’s eighty-five-mile journey marked the end of my week-long ride.
Traveling on rough dusty gravel in a climate-controlled car can be a problem, no doubt about that. But, when sitting down low on a tricycle, in the choking dust, with eight-foot-tall corn blocking any hint of a breeze, the agony is tenfold. Getting traction enough to move forward with tires spinning and sliding towards a ditch is a long way from fun. Then there is the wayward soul in a large truck looking for the likes of me to spray with gravel!
I peddled onward, hoping against all odds that I would soon be back on the pavement, with a tail wind at my back. With my natural optimism fading, I heard a car slowly pulling to a stop beside me. While we waited for the dust cloud to drift past, I realized the driver was a mail carrier. He said with a grin, “you took a wrong turn, didn’t you?” After learning my next road had been washed out, I was crestfallen until he laughed saying, “follow me down to the fork in the road and I’ll get you out of here.” After precise Just north of Lima, Illinois, my telephone bid me to directions were given, I took off like a scalded turn left onto a narrow, paved road. Not keen on dog trying to make up lost time! being led astray again, but short on options, I headed into another massive corn field. After peddling Several miles later, as I sat alongside a beautialong and enjoying the ride for about five miles, fully paved road, eating, this Good Samaritan my heart sank as the breeze and pavement ran out pulled up and stopped. I enthusiastically called out my appreciation, and we parted ways, better simultaneously. for having met each other. While he could have driven by me and laughed at my predicament, he took the time to rescue me. Experience has proven that there are very few willing to go out of their way to help a stranger. To God, I am thankful for this kind-hearted man, and those like him. While gliding off the bridge into Hamilton Illinois, I noticed on my right a road running parallel to the river and thought, “that looks like where I should be riding.” Meanwhile, my GPS ran me into town and through a series of exhausting hills. This “side trip” hurt my feelings by wasting cool morning riding time, while failing to get me closer to my goal of Louisiana, Missouri. As I headed south on Illinois 96, the unrelenting heat steadfastly sapped my strength.
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Remember The Poppies by Shara Bueler-Repka I stared at the American Flag-draped casket in front of me, not wanting to embrace the cold hard reality that my dad was gone. My dad, so vibrant and full of life, feisty and yet kind, lay silent in a steel gray box. It seemed only yesterday that we embarked on one of our many adventures together. “Let’s go for a drive!” Dad grinned, reaching for his walker. “You don’t have to tell me twice,” I said, grabbing the car key. Dad had just gone through hip surgery and it was a joy to hit the road and explore—something I enjoyed doing with him most of my life. We were two peas in a pod, as they say. Rains had drenched California, bringing much-needed moisture. Flowers sprang up everywhere. The California State flower, however, brought the most attention. No one had seen the poppies in this abundance since time-out-of-mind. Gazing across the valley, an entire mountain appeared to be painted orange as the poppies took over its landscape. We meandered through the countryside and down dirt roads. Ranches and homesteads from bygone eras dotted the hills and valleys. Patches of poppies graced the spaces between the old dwellings and blanketed the bright green hills of spring, adding beauty and life to the lonely landscapes. We wound down a hill and navigated around a huge hole filled by the rains. The tires of his Tesla made waves through the water as I tried not to bury it in the muck.
We dodged the last pothole and noticed two people in a big 4x4 Jeep. They stared wide-eyed at the Tesla and then at us—their looks obvious: Are they crazy?
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We laughed and waved at them as we cruised by in search of more poppies. Our adventures had not quite ended, however, as another stretch of rough road loomed ahead. Dad’s old eyes couldn’t read the depth of the road ruts, but I could. “Watch that rut,” he barked. “Don’t bottom out!” I chuckled and fussed back, “Dad, it’s fine. The tires are straddling the sides and we’re clearing it.” “Well, I don’t know about that. It looks like we’re gonna hit,” he said. “Drive over there,” he commanded, waving his finger toward the side of the road. “If we drive over there, we will hit,” I laughed, easing the tension. I stayed the course, and soon we were safely rolling on a good patch of road. “I guess you were right,” he grinned. We crested the last hill, delighting in a beautiful view of the valley spread out below us. “You’re a good driver,” he smiled. “You taught me,” I smiled back. We topped off our trip with burgers and chocolate malts and headed for home. We decided to dub this adventure our “Poppy Drive,” which became one of my favorite memories. Sitting on a cold metal chair, I gazed at the mountains beyond his casket. Memories, like our “Poppy Drive,” drifted through my thoughts. However, other memories, not so pleasant, threatened to overshadow these: the feeling of helplessness the night he took his final breath; the heart-wrenching sorrow of telling my mom and the immediate family; the pain of watching him slip away. What would I choose to dwell on? To be honest, even the good memories stung, knowing that’s all we had now.
Shara Bueler-Repka is enjoying life as a singer/songwriter/recording artist, freelance writer, and award-winning author. She and her husband, Bruce, live in their living quarters horse trailer and call “home” wherever their rig is parked. Their mail-base, however, is Hallettsville, Texas. She loves sharing God’s Word through music with her husband, riding their horses (aka The Boys) in the backcountry, and writing about God’s grace in their various adventures on the trail less traveled.
I had a choice. It would be easy to sink into the slough of sadness. But the Lord encourages us to do the exact opposite of what our human nature begs us to do: “Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.” (Philippians 4:8 KJV) The Lord impressed on me these words to one of my songs: “It’s OK to mourn and grieve. It’s OK to say, ‘Goodbye.’ But don’t dwell in that haunting place, or you’ll never be free to fly.” (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18)
California Poppies
So even though I allow the tears to fall, I refuse to camp out there. With the Lord’s help, I choose to dwell on the hope that as a follower of Jesus Christ, I will see my dad again. Only this time, he will be healthy and whole, running around Heaven full of adventure and life. I choose to be thankful for the blessing of many memories we all shared with him for as long as he was here. And I will forever remember the poppies…
Shara and her Dad
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God’s Possibilities Are Endless By Cindy Oriol
Ever since I was a young girl, I have known that I was meant to do something special for God, my Father. I did not know what that was until He revealed it in my dreams at a later age.
When I moved from Indiana to Kentucky, I became a member of a Baptist church. I joined a women’s group that was working with the missionaries who were serving foreign countries.
I can recall that as a child, my heart would leap for joy at every chance I could get to take care of the elderly and the sick. It was like I could not see or do enough for them.
At our first meeting, they taught me to make and roll up bandages that were headed to the sick in Nairobi, Kenya. Instantly my mind wandered back to my younger years when I dreamt of Africa and the possibilities that God wanted for me to accomplish there.
One particular incident was the day my aunt fell and broke her arm. We were walking down the street from our home on a cold and blustery day. It had snowed a little the night before, but the sidewalks were passable, or so we thought. As we were strolling arm in arm on the somewhat slippery pavement, my aunt’s feet slid from beneath her, and down she went. She landed on her left arm and broke it. I tried to break her fall, but I was not strong enough to handle the both of us. At the age of eight, I became her nurse. I bathed and clothed her, made her meals, and we reminisced about the good old days. The closer I became to her, the closer I felt to God. As the years rolled by, I would have these dreams of faraway places in different areas of Africa. I felt strongly in my heart that it was a special place for me, especially in Nairobi, Kenya.
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A few years later, at a Christian concert where the band “MercyMe” was playing, their staff were passing out pamphlets to sponsor a child through Compassion International. I chose a little girl who lived in Nairobi, Kenya. Think it a coincidence? No! That was only possible through God. God has made it possible for me to go on seven mission trips. Even when it looked as if I would not have the funds to attend, He made the way. I have come to realize that by becoming a missionary, you do not have to go to other regions of the world. You can do the work of the LORD in your own territory. Every time I took care of one of my patients in my career of thirty-five years, I was doing His work. This was the mission that He had planted in my heart as a child. Healings and taking away our pain in our trials and replacing it with joy are only possible with God. He takes our darkest days and uses them to teach us and others how to further His kingdom and to be more like Jesus.
I would like to share with you some of the times when God made things possible in my life. When I was taking the chemo for my breast cancer, there were so many days I could not even get out of bed. It completely drained me from lack of energy and, yet, at the same time, He gave me strength not only to get out of bed but take a short walk with my husband, John. March 19, 2019, was my last chemo treatment. Throughout the entire process, I knew I was never alone. I could feel His presence through every blood transfusion, all the sickness, and the pain. Without God, I would never have made it. He made all things possible for John and me to survive that horrible ordeal.
Cindy Oriol is the author of “IF ONLY” and “ HAVING JOY IN THE MIDST OF THE STORM.” They were written by the Holy Spirit and me to encourage anyone that is going through a storm in their life. No matter how many storms we have to endure as long as we hold tight to Jesus we can make it through anything.
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While I was praying to Him, I felt such peace and tranquility surge through my body, and once again I was reassured of just how much He loves me, not for just a day but forever. I heard Him say, “If I bring you to something, I will bring you through it. You are my child. Let me take care of you.” When we go through our trials in life and things look impossible, these are just mind tricks that Satan is playing on God’s children because with God All Things Are Possible. Matthew 19:26 (NIV) tells us that Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” In Christian Love, Cindy
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Darci J. Steiner is the author of the award-winning biblically based book, Beauty Beyond the Thorns: Discovering Gifts in Suffering. She began writing as a way to process her pain after becoming disabled from a foot injury. Darci writes to encourage others to never give up hope. She is a disability advocate, inspirational speaker, guest-podcaster, and nutritionist. More importantly, Darci is a follower of Christ, and loves to spend time with her husband, two adult daughters, and baby granddaughter. Please visit www.darcijsteiner.com to subscribe to The Upside of Suffering Newsletter.
A Window In Time by Darci Steiner I am approaching four years of disability. That’s 1,460 days. When that chair fell and hit my ankle, I had no idea it would change my life. I had no clue about the encounter I was about to experience with God. It began with many discussions over His ways and what His scriptures mean. I have wrestled with Him over which life is better for me—a disabled or a painless one. God and I spend time alone when no one else can understand my loneliness, disappointment, or sorrow. Even though I can hardly walk, He has taught me how to walk with Him. He’s taught me that pain is His way of carving me to better resemble His image. He’s given me contentment with less because He has become more. I’ve learned Jesus is the reason during a season of suffering, and because He learned obedience to His Father through suffering, so do I. I have sat in my despair and mostly learned not to be afraid. I am afraid, but I’m less fearful than I was when I entered this encounter. As I grow and my faith expands, I panic less that I can hardly walk. I used to walk daily for 45 minutes. On those walks, I connected with my Father through nature. I couldn’t understand why He took away my favorite times of connection until I realized He wanted me to communicate with His nature more, in stillness, without distraction. He wanted to take me deeper into quiet, to show me who He is and who He isn’t.
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It’s harder for me to sit still in His nature (presence) than to walk down the street looking at nature. My initial and constant question to Him at the start of this encounter was, “What am I supposed to do? How am I supposed to live with such limited capacity to do anything?” I felt bound, locked up, and distressed while suffering blood-curdling horrendous pain. Having Complex Regional Pain Syndrome is like a horror movie that loops over, and over, and over again. I have lost so much these last four years. I can’t walk but a few steps per day, reserved to get my lunch, use the restroom, and sometimes get to the dinner table. I can’t drive anymore or even take a shower without help. I can’t cook, get to my backyard, or sit on an unpadded seat. I’ve lost my independence and, at times, my mind. I can’t watch my baby granddaughter alone or take her to the zoo. Oh, how I long to take her to the zoo. I’ve lost my ability to play the piano, a passion of mine. I’ve taught dozens and dozens of students to play over the years, and now I can’t move my fingers in the positions playing requires. You see, I’ve hurt my hands as well. When one body part is injured, the rest of the body lovingly compensates. Eventually, those parts need to be compensated for too, then bam, you’ve got a domino effect, and everything falls apart. When I walk, I feel as if I’m walking on corkscrews and pins and needles. I have torn rotator cuffs, biceps tendonitis, thigh pain, and nerve damage
in my hands. My fingers hurt now as I type, but it’s my creative outlet, so I type as long as possible. But now, I must speak into the dictation feature on my computer because my fingers can’t take the pain any longer. Other losses within this four-year window include my beloved father, friends, and pets. The thing about windows is there are two sides, two perspectives. We look out through a window with one point of view and look in with a different one altogether. We get used to seeing one option and forget there are others. But we can decide to reframe what our mind sees and believes. When I look through the window opposite the side of pain, I see the gains. I have a greater appreciation for the things I haven’t lost. I am not alone. My God shows up for me when I think I can’t go on. Mark, my beloved, and I have grown closer despite hardship. My siblings have shown up in a big way. A dream came true because of my disability—writing a book. As I wrote about suffering, the writing not only distracted me from pain but as I wrestled with the subject, I found good hidden within its intricacies. That was a big gain. Hopefully, my readers feel the same. I’ve gained a voice for the disabled community, speaking about what it’s like to lose ability, but gain perspective. I’ve spoken on podcasts about finding Jesus in suffering and point out that God used Paul, who had a thorn in his flesh, to write fourteen of the twenty-seven books in the New Testament, four of them from prison. I have felt imprisoned too, but the truth is, I’m not. Christ has set me free through disability. I’m free from distancing myself from Him because of independence. When I was able-bodied, I was disillusioned about the amount of freedom I had. Chronic pain keeps me tethered to Him. What can be more freeing than that?
I don’t know what each day holds for me. I may be in too much pain to do anything, or I may have a clear mind to write an article, my newsletter, or a new devotion for my next book. Within it all, I know now that God wants to use me, no matter how limited my abilities. I open each day with The Prayer of St. Francis because I aspire to be an instrument of His peace. There’s nothing He can’t do without a willingness to be used by Him. I am willing. I hold that willingness in my heart and say to Him, “I am willing to do what you want, to go where you take me, but you have to enable me.” As I walk into my future with Him, I know that whatever He chooses for me is best. I trust God is good. I know He loves me and wants what’s best for me. If disability is what He deems best, there will be tough days ahead. All of them will be. But disability has blessed me. I hold dear the closeness of His breath telling me, “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted” (Matt. 5:4 NIV). I don’t have to wait to be comforted until He takes me to my heavenly home. Even now I look through the window on the side of gain and feel His comfort in this encounter. Even though living with disability is exceedingly hard, I can’t think of a better place for Him to grow me into an instrument of His peace.
The Prayer of St. Francis of Assisi
Lord, make me an instrument of your peace: where there is hatred, let me sow love; where there is injury, pardon; where there is doubt, faith; where there is despair, hope; where there is darkness, light; where there is sadness, joy. O divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console, to be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love. For it is in giving that we receive, it is in pardoning that we are pardoned, and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.
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Standing In The Gap By Karen Ruhl
And I sought for a man among them, that should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before me for the land, that I should not destroy it: but I found none. Ezekiel 22:30 (NKJV)
“Therefore have I poured out mine indignation upon them; I have consumed them with the fire of my wrath: their own way have I recompensed upon their heads, saith the Lord GOD.” (Ezekiel 22:31 NKJV)
In the NLT version, it reads God will pour out His Do you remember playing Red Rover when you fury on the people, consuming them with fire. were younger? Groups of kids would choose teams; everyone would line up—both teams facing each Studying this verse, I learned that what we really other. There must have been 25-30 feet separating need is a total spiritual reconstruction. Many are the teams. The game would start with one team currently giving the appearance of loving God, but calling a player, “Red Rover, Red Rover, send Karen living in a way that is not His will. We, as Christians, over.” The goal was to break through the challeng- need to take a good hard look at what we are seeing er’s line. The penalty for not breaking through was in our world. We need to stand in the gap. to join the opposing team. Of course, they would call the smaller people over first because it was I remember reading of a revival in Ireland. People hard to break through the line. The game would go started gathering and would pray specifically for a on until one team won everyone over. We all got a person—using their name. The entire group prayed and were so faithful to meet often. One by one, the good workout and a lot of laughs. people they prayed for started coming to church. Ezekiel 22:30 reminds me of Red Rover in that God was trying to find someone who might rebuild the The 1859 Ulster revival was a Christian revival that wall of righteousness. The wall was in bad shape be- spread to the rest of the United Kingdom. It has cause there was no one who could lead the people been reported that the revival produced 100,000 back to God. The next verse is what we need to think converts. about today:
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There are many revival stories, all very well documented. Started in churches, and in prayer groups. In these stories, it was the people who stood together—they stood in the gap. It is time for all of us to pray for a great revival today. To pray away this counterculture, to pray against sin, to stop covering up sin. We need to learn more, follow God’s will, and not be weak. Are you ready to “stand in the gap?” Do you know someone who needs prayer? Keep in mind that the church is all of us. God calls all of us to pray and stand in the gap. The wall is broken, and evil is getting through. The good news is we know who wins! It is time we pray together, lift people by name in our prayer groups. It is time we make a difference in the world by following God’s will. Let’s start a big Red Rover game and ask those who are lost to come over. We will stand in the gap and bring them back to where they belong. Let’s pray: Heavenly Father, you are our Savior, and we need you. Lord, we declare that this is your Kingdom; we pray for all the lost souls. We pray that you help us stay in the Word and that Your Will be done in our lives. We pray for revival across the world. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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Promises and Possibilities By Chrystal Gilkey What do you do with the doubters in your life? With those people who think you don’t stand a chance? As a child and even as an adult, I had a few people in my life like that. My parents were divorced— back when that was uncommon. My family held no great social status. My biological father was an alcoholic. Occasionally, I overheard adults and even family members say, “It’s too late for her.” “She’s seen too much.” “She’s trailer trash.” “She’s not my real sister.” Every time I felt those words being hurled down at me, I stubbornly took hold of Luke 1:37 and refused to let go. This small verse had a huge impact on my life and it was short enough for me to remember as a child. If they thought success in my life proved impossible, I would show them they were wrong. With God, I would make it. I would go to college. I would provide a stable home. I would stay true to the Lord. God said I could. Where others saw improbability, God saw possibility. For with God, nothing shall be impossible.
With all the problems of life I’ve faced, God has supplied me with so many more promises. I love being able to go to His Word and claim His beautiful promises in the face of my doubters. If you have a problem, God has a promise. My family had been broken and put together so many times, but in God’s family, I didn’t have to worry if I was a half-sister or a step-daughter. 1 John 3:1 (KJV) promises, “Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God….” Galatians 3:26 (KJV) says, “For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.” I didn’t have to distress over disappointments caused by my absentee father. I had a Heavenly Father that never let me down. The Lord also provided a wonderful step-dad and other father figures in my life. Matthew 6:26 (KJV) assures us, “Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?” I no longer lower my head in shame because of my social status. I can loudly proclaim with confidence, “I’m a child of the King!” Proverbs 14:26 (KJV) declares, “In the fear of the LORD is strong confidence: And his children shall have a place of refuge.”
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When America Drennan felt the call to Japan at age 53, someone commented, wondering what a woman at her age could accomplish. She let that comment momentarily deter her until she could no longer ignore the Lord knocking at her heart and sailed to Osaka, Japan, in 1883. I wonder if she ever overheard people talking about her, “She’s too old.” “It’s too late for her.” “She’s just a woman.” Among her many accomplishments, America established an orphanage and organized women’s schools in Nagoya. She started churches and handed them over to native pastors in different towns in Japan, some 60 miles apart. While traveling and weather conditions took a toll on her body, she did not quit. Ms. Drennan adopted two children and obtained cottages for missionaries to rest and for refugees from China to take haven! Who would’ve thought this widowed woman could have such an amazing impact? Some would call it impossible. Praise the Lord for His promise of making the impossible possible.
Click on book cover to purchase book. A Texas girl born and raised, Chrystal Gilkey resides in Arkansas, with her husband, three children, and two cats. A published author, Chrystal writes to encourage and strengthen people’s faith in God. Connect with her at chrystaljgilkey.com or find her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn @chrystaljgilkey
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Dr. Kathleen B. Oden is an author, missionary, and Bible teacher. She has been the Administrator of God’s House of Refuge Church & School of Evangelism, for 25 years. Dr. Oden attained a Doctorate degree in Christian Theology in 2000. After a bad fall in 2014, she realized that she had to start eating healthy, in order to fully recover. She became a Certified Health Minister and a Certified Essential Oil Coach. She loves ministering to people and God gave her a health ministry called, Create AnewU Health Ministry. Her health ministry has opened the door for her to share what the WORD OF GOD has to say about eating healthy. Dr. Oden has published over 20 books through Amazon.com and several of them are about health and wellness. https://createanewuhealthministry.com
The Child In Me
By Dr. Kathleen B. Oden Think back… what did you enjoy doing as a child before ‘life happened’? Some of my favorite pastime hobbies were reading, writing, drawing, and painting abstract pictures. After life happened, it was many, many years later when my daughter had completed college, joined the peace corps, and went to Africa, that I remembered. She left her car with me and there were several canvas paintings in the trunk that she had drawn and painted. It was in that brief moment, my mind was transported back to my younger self. WOW! What happened? I was just 19 a minute ago!
And He said in Matthew 18:3, “And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.” (KJV) As adults, we are so busy with life that we sometimes forget that we are still little children in the eyes of God. Have we forgotten that we are CHILDREN of God? Several weeks ago, my pastor’s 10-year-old grandson came for a visit. He was bored because he did not have anyone to play with him. We watched cartoons, discussed them, laughed out loud, and just had a good time. When was the last time you spent some quality time with a child?
One of the things I love about Jesus is that nothing we learn to do is wasted. And many of us have an abundance of gifts that are on hold, waiting inside It is our responsibility to pay it forward to the next of us, for such a time to be birthed forth. generation. How will they remember us if we do In Bible college, we learned how to draw maps of not take the time to pass on our knowledge to the Holy Land in Israel. At the time, my thought them, socialize with them, acknowledge them and was, “this is totally useless.” However, many, many enjoy them while we can? We need to look in the years later, the Lord put me in charge of the chil- mirror and ask ourselves what happened to the dren’s church school. Teaching them how to draw child in us? and color maps of the Holy Land in Israel was so enjoyable for them and for me. Who knew! Jesus knew!
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Health Maintenance Regime Dr. Kathleen B. Oden
Reading and writing are still two of my passions and my prayer is to someday get back to drawing and painting. When the Lord first started dealing with me about writing books for children, I was totally clueless and did not know that the gift was just on hold, waiting inside of me, for such a time to be birthed forth. Now, years later, after writing and publishing several books for children, it has come to pass. Spending over 25 years in the corporate world working in Information Systems has given me the skills needed not only as a Bible teacher but also as an entrepreneur. It is truly a gift from the Lord to be able to learn how to use software with little or no extra training, faster than people half my age. Also, few people that are knocking on the door of a 71-year-old have the skill or mindset to work on a computer for over 12 hours almost every day, running multiple businesses! I thank the Lord! Talking with young people online has helped me to not only stay young-minded but also hold on to the mindset of the child in me. Pushing myself to learn innovative ideas and strategies to keep my businesses moving forward, helps me continue to think young. I don’t have time to get old. There are so many projects that are still on my plate that must be completed. Children need special care. Their little bodies cannot handle what adults handle. If there are any children in your life that you love, here are some ideal ways to care for their bumps, bruises, and scrapes in a healthy, all-natural way. We all need some tender love and care from time to time. Even the child in me!
Make this essential oil blend in a 2oz. glass (60ml) bottle. You can also use a spray bottle. This formula is very soothing for cuts, scrapes, and bruises. It will reduce germs and infection. Apply to skin around the area immediately after it happens and then 3-5 times daily until it is healed. Make a fresh bottle every 3 weeks. Mix together: 2oz. (56 gm) Aloe vera gel with 2.5ml of Solubol for every 1 drop of essential oil. 4 drops of Lavender Essential Oil 4 drops of Frankincense Essential Oil WARNING: always use extra caution when using essential oils with children. Especially with children under 5.
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Fireworks
By Rolanda T. Pyle While sitting here looking up into the sky, It causes me to reflect and wonder why Do we love fireworks in all their splendor and array? But don’t always appreciate differences in life in the same way. Part of the beauty in fireworks are the different colors bursting on display Each shape, size, and sound project in its own unique way. We love this in fireworks, but often miss the beauty of this in life Where differences seem to cause division, prejudice, or even hatred and strife. But once we realize that it’s the differences that make us human. Whether race, nationality, gender, size, or for what we stand We will love and appreciate each other right from birth And enjoy and celebrate our God-given differences just like fireworks!
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Summer Fun
By Rolanda T. Pyle Summer Fun Here’s the Sun Temperature Rises Beautiful Skies Water’s Blue Ocean Cruises Depth of the Sea Amazes Me! Hanging at the Beach Enjoying Grapes and a Peach Fun in the Sand Need a Fan Water Splashing Children Laughing Enjoying the Breeze Not the Ants or Bees Food Galore Barbeque for Sure Picnics in the Park Hear the Dogs Bark Travel Time Wine and Dine Life with Ease Summer Peace Beautiful Green Grass Wish it could last For these Reasons Thanking God for this Season!
Learn more about this award winning author, Rolanda T. Pyle by visiting her website. http://www.rorosrainbowcommunications.com/index.html
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Ken worked for seventeen years with Youth With A Mission, primarily Involved in discipleship training and evangelism. He is the author of The Chicken Farm and Other Sacred Places, published in 2011 by YWAM Publishing and Broken Vessels in 2021 through Kindle Direct Publishing. He holds a Masters Degree from Virginia Commonwealth University in Curriculum and Instruction. He currently is a freelance writer. He lives with his wife Sharon in Mechanicsville, VA. They have two daughters and six grandchildren.
THE GREATEST IN THE KINGDOM by Ken Barnes
“So Abraham called that place The Lord Will Provide. And to this day it is said, “On the mountain of the Lord it will be provided.” (Genesis 22:14 NIV) I worked with Youth With A Mission for seventeen years. We had a saying, where God leads, He feeds; where He guides, He provides. I once had an experience that proved this to be true. Oh, my goodness, I don’t have enough gas. I was on tour in the summer of 1983, recruiting shortterm missionaries for Youth With A Mission. I was traveling with my wife and our two girls. Sharon, my wife, and I had sought the Lord, and we felt we were to launch out by faith. I was traveling to thirty-five cities east of the Mississippi River, but there was one hitch. I had enough money to start the tour, but not enough to finish it. I was a bit apprehensive as I realized that my two daughters had these strange little habits—they liked to eat and regularly. About halfway through the tour, we were in Indianapolis, Indiana, in a home meeting with a couple who would host a meeting in their church we would call a Night of Missions. The couple would take care of the logistics of the meeting, and YWAM (short for Youth With A Mission) would come and do a presentation to recruit students for our short-term missions program.
When we arrived at this home in Indianapolis the day before, our cash was gone; we were broke. On a couple of other stops on our trip, when our funds were getting low, our hosts would give us a card with twenty or fifty dollars as we left. This morning in Indianapolis, the couple gave us a lunch bag and big hugs and sent us on our way. As I drove off and looked at my gas gauge, I felt a sick feeling in the pit of my stomach. We had to drive from Indianapolis to my mother’s apartment in west Tennessee. I was monitoring my gas gauge closely. I was starting to be nervous in the service. About this time, there came to mind a famous story about Brother Andrew of God’s Smuggler fame. On one occasion, the communist authorities were chasing him in his little car full of Bibles. Allegedly, he drove for hours with his gas gauge not going down. I thought to myself; maybe God will do that for me. No such luck; the needle on my gas gauge seemed to go down faster than ever. We did not have GPS in those days, and I was unsure if I had enough gas to make it to Mother’s apartment. I stopped at a gas station to see if we could make it to Mom’s place. After speaking with the attendant about the travel time to my destination, I returned to the car, trying to mask my anxiety, too many miles and not enough gas.
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It was not quite noon, but I suggested that we have lunch. When you don’t know what to do, you delay. I had a charge card, but I knew I could not borrow my way through this tour. If I did, I would end up with bills I could not pay. While my wife unpacked the lunch, I went to the station to wash up. When I returned, I noticed her holding something in her hand with a big smile on her face. At the bottom of the bag was a card with sixty dollars in it. I could not have been more relieved if someone had given me a million dollars. Where God leads, He feeds; where He guides, He provides. I am sure that when our host sent us off with a lunch on subsequent stops; I checked the bottom of the bag first.
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Improve With Effort By Craig Ruhl
“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” (Philippians 4:8 ESV) To say I was not a stellar student in grade and high school would be an understatement. At best, I was a middle-of-road, grade ‘C’, kind of guy. If one could sum up my childhood report cards, I would use the phrase, average, could improve with effort. There is a lot of meaning packed in that statement. At first glance, the term average is non-threatening, even commonplace, if you will. If we add in the, what now may be considered an old-fashioned, method of grading on a curve, it makes average seem a bit higher than maybe it should be. To my mind, the variable, could improve with effort, is where the rubber meets the road. Is the ‘C’ student at that level because of his or her ability, or is it more likely to be attributed to concepts such as attitude, interest, or aptitude? The teacher’s remarks I am referring to imply I could have achieved a ‘B’ grade level if I had applied myself and worked harder on my studies. I don’t disagree with that at all. I sure could have done better in school. Perhaps my mind was filled with other non-scholastic thoughts. Daydreaming came naturally to me, with no additional effort required. I loved to read from a very young age and that likely spurred my creative mind away from some of the technical academic subjects and into realms more suited to a reader and writer. Please don’t get me wrong, I am very thankful for the excellent education I was provided with and for all the opportunities I was offered. My disclaimer states: All of the errors of commission or omission in my life are my own.
Of course, those old report cards and scholastic assessments have long ago been relegated to attic boxes or lost forever through changes in geographical locations over the years. My formal education is finished and my long business career concluded a number of years ago. But retirement does not men idleness and I continue to embrace life and learning. Now, in my 75th year, I compare how I learn today with back then. One stark difference is I do not have to learn anything new. No required studies, no tests, and report cards are a distant memory. I am free to investigate, learn, explore, and fill my memory with all that I deem beneficial. Pretty liberating stuff, right there. And so, I have allowed myself to grow into a more literary lifestyle. Knowledge is delivered differently than it was when I started school in 1952. The internet and Google have placed what once was contained in a massive library in the palm of our hand. Information in the blink of an eye, and faster. We now are in the age of information overload and we need to be vigilant of what we place in our minds. I have written previously about the joy I have in writing in my journals using my collection of vintage fountain pens and inks. Reading continues to be a pleasant pastime, although I seem to do more of it on a computer and the internet than I prefer. Devotional themes, testimonies, and stories of everyday people living their lives in the Christian faith are among my favorite reading materials. I enjoy the occasional action-adventure novel and still follow a few prolific writers in that genre. Writing and editing for our magazine, Faith On Every Corner, our primary mission field, allows me to interact with over 30 other writers and authors each month, reading and editing their words, learning from their experiences, and storing up reinforcement for my own faith. Karen and I are helping other writers and authors with their literary efforts by editing, designing, and formatting books for publication. That has added an extra dimension to my study, learning, and retention.
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Karen and I are working on books of our own that we pray will see fruition and be published later this year or early next year. We have several open projects that keep us occupied and out of trouble—mostly. Our plans include writing for publication outside our current domain. Something that has not changed in all those years—I can still improve with effort. Yes, I still have a problem with daydreaming and my excuse is to write it all off as senioritis. Today, if I don’t write a thought down, it may be lost and not return, or it may pop back up when I least expect it, and can’t remember why I thought it was important in the first place. Thus, the journals, notebooks, and scraps of paper with barely legible writing lay scattered on my desk. The grades we receive now are in the form of feedback from our readers and the success and well-being of those other writers and authors we have helped along the way. Won’t you take a moment to drop us a note to share what’s on your mind and let us know how we are doing? We will appreciate it and, who knows, your thoughts may prompt an article or story for an upcoming issue. If you have an idea for a book or would like someone to come alongside you and your writing journey, call us or drop us an email. We will love talking to you. In our busy world today, we need to continue to learn, absorb, and put into action all the good knowledge we can. Pray that the Holy Spirit will guide you in this! “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened.” (Matthew 7:7-8 NKJV)
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C O N TA C T U S . . .
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