Faith On Every Corner - March 2022 by Faith On Every Corner

March 2022 Issue Naxos Taormina Sicily Archaeological Park Photo by Susan Strawn

“how I kept back nothing that was helpful, but proclaimed it to you, and taught you publicly and from house to house, testifying to Jews, and also to Greeks, repentance toward God and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.” -Acts 20:21-22 NKJV

Visit Our Website at www.FaithOnEveryCorner.com for previous issues of our magazine.

COVER PHOTO BY SUSAN STRAWN Susan and her friend and traveling partner, Barbara visiting their 7th Continent the Antarctica

From Karen Ruhl, Publisher I first met Susan when she signed up for a photo class several years ago. She wanted to learn as much about her camera as she could so she could take photos as she traveled the world.

Childrems memorial in Hiroshima. Made from paper cranes. The skeleton of a building standing from the bombing of Hiroshima

She took several classes and as you will see, she takes wonderful and beautiful photos. Susan invested in her camera and a couple of new lenses and was a great student. Here are photos of her adventures. Susan lives in Lenoir, North Carolina, has a son and daughter-in-law and three beautiful grandchildren. She is very active in her church and Rotary International. Susan has visited 43 countries and will be off on another adventure or two this year. Well kept stairs in Sicily

Granddaughter with bubbles! Hillside in Italy

Lady in Ecuador making Panama Hats

INSIDE COVER

NOTE FROM THE EDITOR March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb. As February ends, we look forward to what March brings. We had a major health scare in February with Craig ending up in the hospital for almost 2 weeks. He had a heart attack while he was there. My mind and emotions were all over the place, as were Craig’s. We prayed together, we prayed alone, we had hundreds of families and friends praying for us. Craig was released on Valentine’s Day to come home with home health care. He is doing so much better, and we are taking it easy as he recovers. Thank you all for your concern, prayers, and the love you gave us during this time.

Karen

and C

raig R

uhl

I am very excited to showcase Susan Strawn on the left-hand page. She is so dedicated to learning and has taken amazing photos around the world. I love our Road Trips but always love when she travels and posts other country photos. We hope all of our international readers and writers enjoy the photos. Who knows, she may be in your part of the world someday. While in the hospital, I was able to pray for others in need. Family members are so worn out and scared while waiting in the ICU waiting area or when not able to visit their loved ones. Please pray for all medical staff, patients, families, and everyone who works in the hospital. If you need prayer, please send me an email. Much love - may God bless you all. Karen Ruhl Team@FaithOnEveryCorner.com

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Table of Contents

COVER PHOTOGRAPHER: SUSAN STRAWN ... COVER AND INSIDE COVER March Prayer by Tynea Lewis ... page 21 Quiet Time and Poems by John Alexander ... page 6-7 Forgiveness After Someone Has Died by Melissa Henderson ... page 8-9 Higher Thoughts, Higher Ways by Andrea Marino ... page 10-11 How Long? by Dr. Kathleen Oden ... page 12-13 Morning Coffee by Michael E. Wells ... page 14-15 Our Forever Shepherd by Nicole Byrum ... page 16-17 Godly Lessons From St. Patrick by Yvonne Morgan ... page 18-19 Be Still by Gina Sewell ... page 20 March Prayer by Tynea Lewis ... page 21 Don’t Be Troubled by Dave Evans ... page 22 Abundance And Poverty by Dave Evans ... page 23 Trapped In An Antique Mall by Steve Wilson ... page 24-25 Cleaning Out The Cistern by Peter Caligiuri ... page 26 I’ll Fly Away by Peter Caligiuri ... page 27 A Fresh Start by Dr. Irene Surya ... page 28 The Lord’s Healing Power by Brenda McDaniel ... page 30 Trees by Karen Ruhl ... page 31 New Beginnings by Cindy Oriol ... page 32-33 Road Trippin’ by Karen Ruhl ... page 34-37 What Does St. Patrick’s Day Mean To Me? by Sharon K. Connell ... pages 38-39

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A Change Of Scenery by Shara Bueler-Repka ... page 40-41 Bookshelf - book reviews ... page 42-43 I Heard A Robin - Hope In The Dark by Craig D. Lounsbrough ... page 44-45 The Coffee Police by Ken Barnes ... page 46 Live Aligned To Your Design: Giving God Center-Stage by Tami Thorsen ... page 48-49 The Most Fruitful Fields by Esther Bandy ... pages 50-51 Sparrows In The Garage - Little Treasures by Craig D. Lounsbrough ... page 52-53 You Are My Lord by Esther Bandy ... page 54 The Missing Peace by Esther Bandy ... Page 55 A Legacy Of Forgiveness by Chrystal Gilkey ... page 56-57 The Battle Is His by Lynn Downham ... page 58 Chronic Illness And Jesus by Paula Short ... page 60-61 Let Him Breathe Through You by Laurie Glass ... page 62 Five Ways To Look For Blessings During Trials by Juliana Gordon ... page 64-65

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Poems by John Alexander

Quiet Time The stillness of the morning soothes. I gently rock. The glider moves. This quiet time to start my day Fulfills my need to write and pray. I search the scriptures in Your Word John Alexander lives in Frisco, Texas with his beautiful wife and his Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.

Quiet Time By John Alexander

To know the truths I’ve not yet heard. I pray You’ll help me understand And share Your thoughts throughout the land. I pray I see Your words unfold To heal our hearts that have grown cold.

Spending quiet time with the Lord daily over a prolonged period provides us with an opportunity to release the hurts inside and to heal our souls. The Lord not only forgives but also forgets all our trespasses, leaving us clean in His sight, inside and out. It’s hard to believe as I began writing in rhyme during my quiet time in early 2020 that I’d still be writing two years later, sharing what the Lord places on my heart. I’m grateful to be able to share my poetry journey with the Faith On Every Corner family each month. I pray the poems I share this month are a blessing to you.

I pray I share and can convey Your love that heals in every way. May Your loving kindness shine. May others know Your love divine. Lord, guide my hand in verse and rhyme. I thank You, Lord, for quiet time.

Blessings, John Alexander www.QuietTimeRhymes.com If you’d like to receive an email to let you know each time I post a new poem, just email me at john@quiettimerhymes.com and ask to be put on my email list. 6PAGE | M6 AG A Z I N E N A M E 3

Time To Share

A Time In Prayer

I thank You, Lord, for time to heal,

I come to You my Lord in prayer

To read, to pray with You, be real.

Before it’s light, this time to share.

In prayer, I’m spending time with You.

You know my heart before I speak.

Each day I sing a song that’s new.

You help restore the peace I seek.

I thank You, Lord, that through this time

I’m sad to see the world so wrong,

I’ve come to share my heart in rhyme.

New deaths reported all day long.

I thank You, Lord, You help me see

I pray dear God this soon will end,

That others matter more than me,

Lord let Your love on us descend.

That I can share what’s in my soul

I pray that those who don’t know You

To help someone find You, be whole.

Will find Your truth they never knew.

I’m not a pro, not trained in art,

I pray that while the world’s on hold

I simply share what’s in my heart.

You warm my heart where it’s grown cold.

I pray that the words I write and share

Lord help me search my heart and soul,

Will help someone to know You care.

Discover places not yet whole.

I pray once life regains its speed,

Help me accept what You reveal

These rhymes still touch someone in need.

And bare my soul that You may heal.

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Forgiveness After Someone Has Died By Melissa Henderson

Relationships come in all kinds. Family connections, friendships with co-workers or neighbors, or connections with strangers are some ways friendships are found. Conversations can be fruitful or involve disagreements. Have you ever wanted to forgive someone and found that forgiveness was hard to find? Have you ever needed to be forgiven? I have known several people who were just plain disagreeable. The more I tried to understand their point of view or consider why they may be acting a certain way, the more upset and angry I became. I prayed for the people and prayed for God to help me understand them. Prayers for help in having pleasant conversations and peaceful encounters were in my daily chats with God. These were people I would see often, and peace was needed. Did I handle my part of the conversations with these people in the best way? Sometimes yes and sometimes no. My anger and disappointment rose to the surface more than once. I could not understand why a person would continue to act in ways that hurt the family.

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Then… God. Yes, God brought light into the relationships. We never know when our last day on this earth will be, but God knows. The Heavenly Father opened my eyes, ears, and heart to receive and give grace to the ones who were at fault and to myself for judging. God was in each relationship the whole time. At the beginning of the turmoil, my heart was not open to forgiving. As time went on and I learned more about the people and their own life experiences, I began to understand their behavior a bit better. There was no excuse for certain actions. There was the opportunity for me to forgive. Time went by and the people passed away, one by one. Our relationships had not been repaired. My sorrow over what could have been made me think of how God forgives us when we sin. I tried several times to open the door to conversation, but my efforts were halted. I could have tried harder.

Click on the book covers to purchase Melissa’s books.

After those people passed on, I began thinking about the strained relationships and the regrets I have about what could have been. I asked God to forgive me for my part in any wrongdoing. He forgives me. I asked God to forgive the other people, too. I believe He forgives them as well. The conversation won’t continue on this earth. God has taught me how to forgive. In this situation, forgiveness came after the people died. My heart aches that I wasn’t able to reach forgiveness and healing in the relationship before they passed on.

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 http://www.melissaghenderson.com

Thank You, God, for Your love and forgiveness. Help me to forgive as You forgive. “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. (Ephesians 4:32 NIV) In His Name, Melissa Henderson

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Andrea loves spending time with her children and grandchildren, and enjoys cycling on the open roads with her husband, David.

Higher Thoughts, Higher Ways By Andrea Marino

God has given us free will. It is unwise to consider it ‘doing as we please’. Without a standard, people run wild. The Holy Spirit leads us to the truth. (Proverbs 29:18, John 16:13) When Jesus told the disciples, He would be leaving soon, but they could not follow at this time, Peter questioned the statement, adding emphatically, “I will lay down my life for You!” (John 13:37 HCS) A rooster crowed 3 times before Peter would deny even knowing Him. As a new Christian, Jesus was attractive to me. Attentive to my cries, meeting every need, He often granted many of my wants. But was I following Him? Sooner or later, we will grapple with Jesus being Lord over our lives. Like the disciples, wondering what happened to Him in a violent storm upon the sea, we will experience Jesus appearing more silent and distant than when we first believed. Life is not what we think, neither does it go according to our desires. At best, human reasoning is amusing. Peter’s response during the transfiguration is. (Matthew 17). Seeing the Lord, shining like the sun, talking with Moses and Elijah, jubilantly, he blurts out a plan to build three tabernacles—one for each of them. As if our time on earth was the only

life to live. Anyone would be caught up in the euphoria, witnessing the glory of the Lord. Peter’s response is endearing, coming as naturally as his explosive reaction in cutting off the ear from one of the soldiers who had come to arrest his Lord. “You cannot follow me now, but will follow later.” (John 13:36b HCS) The natural mind is blindsided to a realm very real, and yet cannot be seen with the naked eye. With limited understanding of spiritual things, the disciples’ initial focus was Jesus putting an end to Israel’s oppressors. Absolutely God’s plan before the beginning of time, it will be the final outcome. This life is about learning not to lean on our own understanding. Trusting the Holy Spirit opens us up to know God’s higher thoughts and ways. (Isaiah 55:8,9, Proverbs 3:5,6) “If anyone wants to come with Me, he must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow Me. Whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.” (Mathew 16:24,25 ESV)

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Click on the photo of the book to purchase from Amazon.

Twenty-four years ago, ready to send my last child off to school on the bus, when the door opened, much to my surprise, was a neighbor sitting behind the steering wheel. She and I had a nasty confrontation a while back. I was happy just to not have to deal with her. Until now. Boarding the bus to assist my daughter with her seatbelt, this neighbor/driver sternly expressed the action, going against school policy. I stood right where I was until I heard the click of my daughter’s seatbelt. That afternoon, mad as ever, I determined to give that neighbor a piece of my mind. But lo-and-behold, as I walked across my front lawn to the bus, I heard a still small voice say: Tell her to have a nice afternoon. ‘No way, Lord’! I immediately responded, recounting to Him how badly she had mistreated me years ago with cutting words, totally uncalled for. Flustered, as my daughter bounded down the stairs of the bus, I looked up at my neighbor, and with a smile politely said exactly what the Lord urged me to say. Oddly enough, I felt peace. Here was a small victory over my flesh; it was a portion of Holy Spirit fruit to enjoy now. Walking by the Spirit, we will not carry out the deeds of our flesh. (Galatians 5:1,13,16,22) It is good to be free of old thoughts and ways.

Jesus said there were some standing with Him who would not taste death until seeing the Kingdom. (Luke 9:27) Scripture bears evidence of the disciples recognizing the Kingdom of God in their midst. It changed them. And they followed Him. We, God’s people, are undoubtedly plodding along through times of terrible spiritual darkness. The Lord may seem silent and distant, although we are persuaded He is neither. How much we wish these times of oppression were no more. Nonetheless, we are not floundering around in a carnal mindset, but have the power of the Holy Spirit upon us. (Acts 1:8) God is shaking the earth to remove all evil. After all is said and done, what will remain are His words. (Hebrews 12:27, 1 Peter 1:25). Here is a revelation for all who have eyes to see and ears to listen. Like the old gospel song, ‘Bringing in the Sheaves’ points out, we, God’s people, see fields ripe and ready for harvest. Transformed lives are powerful witnesses to Jesus Christ. Committed to the call of His Great Commission to shine the light of His glory, we hold in our minds the words of Jesus: “Your hearts must not be troubled. In My Father’s house are many dwelling places. I am going away to prepare a place for you.” (John 14:1, 2,3 HCS)

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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

How Long?

By Dr. Kathleen B. Oden There is one question that continues to rank as #1 when it comes to people seeing a change in their health. And that question is, how long will it take for them to feel better? Most people do not know how fast eating healthy can improve their health. One of the main things I learned about eating healthy is that being consistent pays off. Many people have had poor health for so long and been in pain for so long, it can take up to 3 months or more before they see any sign of healing. And that also goes for natural/organic alternative products and/or supplements. Some people take them for 2 weeks or 30 days and then stop because they don’t “seem” to be working. What they don’t realize is that it can greatly depend on the condition of their health. Why does it take so long? The main reason all-natural products take a while is that, unlike most “prescription medications,” it is not just a band-aid! It actually heals the body from the inside out and that takes time! Most people want a quick fix, so they use prescription medications all the time, instead of natural alternatives.

Now with that said, depending on how dire your situation is, you may need prescription medication as well as to be admitted to a hospital to get your health issue under control immediately. Once your health and/or life are no longer in danger, then you need to use or return to using all-natural alternative products and/or supplements. God did not just place plants on earth for food only. Some plants should be used, or taken, like prescription medications. It all depends on what health issues you are dealing with. That is why taking a multi-vitamin only does not work for everybody! Multi-vitamins contain a select amount of each vitamin for the average person. We do not all fall into that category. Right? Do you consider yourself average? Or do you have some kind of health issue that causes you to be allergic to something healthy? For example… I am allergic to citric acid and therefore cannot have drinks high in vitamin C and I cannot take vitamin C on a daily basis.

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Over time, I learned how to take vitamin C to make sure that it works for my body when I need it. Therefore you have to not only know your body but also go to the doctor. After you get a physical, you can look at the report to find out exactly what is going on. Do not depend on your doctor to tell you everything that is going on with your body. You only need to be concerned with 2 columns on the report. The column that tells you what it should be (cholesterol, for example) and the column that tells you what your score is. Those of us that get a physical once a year have plenty of time to improve our health (and report) before the next physical. So don’t waste it! Most of us know when we are not feeling well or that something is going on with our health. However, it is difficult for many people to learn the right combination of healthy foods, vitamins, and minerals needed for our body. Getting a health coach to help you create a plan that works for you can speed up this process and/or help you with any instructions that you receive from your doctor. A coach can also alert you of issues that may need a doctor’s immediate attention. Personal coaching helps not only us get on the right path for healthy living, but it can also help us stay focused if we should start to wonder… how long will this take? “And by the river upon the bank thereof, on this side and on that side, shall grow all trees for meat, whose leaf shall not fade, neither shall the fruit thereof be consumed: it shall bring forth new fruit according to his months, because their waters they issued out of the sanctuary: and the fruit thereof shall be for meat, and the leaf thereof for medicine. (Ezekiel 47:12 KJV)

Health Maintenance Regime

Dr. Kathleen B. Oden

1. How long will it take to see or feel a difference in your health after you start eating healthy? • 1-6 months more or less. It greatly depends on the status of your health. 2. How long will it take to see or feel a difference in your health after you start taking natural products? • If you have been eating healthy at least 1 year— > 2-3 weeks (or less) • If you have been eating healthy 6 months or less— > 1-2 months (or less) • If you just started eating healthy— > 3 months (or more) Get a free health assessment! https://healthminister.now.site/home

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Morning Coffee With Michael E. Wells

HOPE Our prayers reveal the hope that is within our hearts. Hope is Holding On Praying Earnestly! Prayer is not a magic trick or a mystic ritual. It is to keep in the forefront of our minds that which is deep within our hearts and to allow God to move on them. 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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Hope also reaches down and stirs our faith to believe again. Paul writes that at one time we were without God and without hope, but no longer. Hope sustains when faith is weak and love is strained. Never lose hope, the precious gift that will see you through 2022.

REFLECTIONS

CENTRAL MISSION

Life is short I won’t be here long There is much to write before I move on Life’s experiences I’ll put to pen So much to tell where shall I begin? This one truth I found early on God is real we are not alone I found reasons to believe and less to doubt A presence to walk with me promising things will work out Struggles in life came as I grew older But the presence gave strength and I grew bolder Family has grown many to look after So I spent time in prayer where my thoughts could gather Old age is approaching I can’t hold back time My thoughts often return to this faithful friend of mine A lifelong companion who met me at youth Now walks me to a place my hold on life will let loose Unique to each one this journey of life But not one we travel without a presence at our side So before I go this I want to say God is real I spoke with Him today

The day breaks and my soul soars, but when night falls, my heart pours. The mask I wear portrays I don’t care, but tears cut deep from a life on the street. A sign up ahead says shelter and a bed. An open door in which to enter. I find a large room and walk to the center. A hot meal I’m served and good news I’ve now heard. Some faces I know and wondered where they go. I hear a voice, comforting and caring. Says for a few moments they will be sharing. The lights have now turned down as I crawl into bed. The words run through my mind, the words the man said. I am loved, accepted, and forgiven from the world of hell I was living. Healing tears now stream my face. My heart is moved by God’s grace. In a dimly lit room on a borrowed bed, I found God as I bowed my head. Where was this chance meeting that eternally changed my condition? I catch a flash of light through my window and look; it blinks... CENTRAL MISSION.

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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.

OUR FOREVER SHEPHERD by Nicole Byrum

I often thought of Jesus as being many things to me—my Savior, friend, high priest, King, Truth, and my resurrection and life—but rarely did I think of Him as my shepherd (though I knew He was). But as I read Psalm 28 (ESV) a few mornings ago, I stopped at verse 9, “Oh, save your people and bless their heritage! Be their shepherd and carry them forever.” In my journaling Bible I wrote, Our forever Shepherd. Over the last few days, I’ve come back to this verse, reading and re-reading, thinking about what it means that Jesus is my Shepherd… which led to more readings from both the Old and New Testaments. What I found astounded me and has forever changed the way I see my Shepherd. I first turned to the most famous Psalm of all, Psalm 23. “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want,” (v.1). This psalm beautifully depicts the faithfulness of our Lord as the shepherd who stays with his flock, providing food, water, and protection for his sheep. In this Psalm, the Shepherd also provides restoration for souls and leads those in His care in the path of righteousness. What a beautiful picture of His tender care for the sheep who can do none of this for themselves.

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Of note, it was David who wrote Psalm 23, and it was David who was anointed King of Israel while tending his own flock. He who was taken from the pasture was made prince over God’s people (2 Samuel 7:8). This David, the shepherd boy with a heart after God’s own, became Israel’s most celebrated and successful King. And it was this David with whom God established the Davidic Covenant, promising him that his throne shall be established forever (2 Samuel 7:16). Remarkably, this establishment would find its fulfillment in none other than Jesus Christ. As I continued to read, I could see the promise unfolding… Over 500 years after David’s life had ended, God referred to his people as sheep in Ezekiel 34. Verses 1-9 depict God’s anger against the shepherds (kings) who have been failing at their job of caring for the sheep (Israel). In verse 10, God declares, “I will rescue my sheep from their mouths.” Veres 10-16 are again a beautiful picture of God as our Shepherd. In this passage, God states He will search for His sheep and seek them out; that He will rescue them from all the places they have been scattered; that He will feed them in a glorious place, making them lie down in rich pastures; and that He will bring back the strayed, bind up the injured, and strengthen the weak. But not only would God the Father do this—He promised another. In verses 23-24, He says, “I will set up

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Click on book covers to purchase books on Amazon. over them one shepherd, my servant David, and he will feed them; he will feed them and be their shepherd. And I, the Lord, will be their God, and my servant David shall be prince among them” (ESV). Who was this David the Lord spoke of? Surely, the long-deceased David would not rise again! It is in the New Testament we see… “And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child,” (Luke 2:4-5, ESV). This child was the incarnate Son of God, the David who was to come. As the angels proclaimed, “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:11, ESV). In John chapter 10, this Savior continues to reveal who He is to us. In verse 11, He states, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep” (ESV). Again in verse 14, he repeats, “I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me” (ESV). This word, know, is personal and communicates an intimate knowing and understanding. It is the knowing that refers to God’s gracious redemptive commitment to his sheep; a commitment which leads Jesus to say once more in verse 15, “I lay down my life for the sheep.”

This commitment is demonstrated by Jesus first in the form of a parable. In Luke 15:3-7, Jesus tells of a shepherd who leaves the 99 in search of the one sheep who is lost—language reminiscent of Ezekiel 34:11-12. It is this lost sheep that the shepherd places on his shoulders as he carries him home. Ultimately, Jesus demonstrated His commitment to His sheep by fulfilling the words He spoke in John 10:15: he laid down His life for us. Note that His life was not taken from him, but freely given on our behalf. As our Lord said in John 10:18, “No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord.” Amazingly, the Good Shepherd also became the slain Lamb of God, the one who bought our redemption with His blood. Here again, we see the fulfillment of Ezekiel 34:16 in Christ. Through His death and resurrection, the stray have returned, the injured have been bound, and the weak are now strong (Luke 4:18). For by our Shepherd’s wounds we have been healed (1 Peter 2:24). And yet, the one who now sits at the right hand of the throne of God is our Shepherd still. As the Apostle Peter wrote, “And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory” (1 Peter 5:4, ESV). It is our Shepherd whose return we eagerly await, that we might reflect his glory for all eternity; the shepherd who carries us not only now, but forever. 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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Godly Lessons From St. Patrick by Yvonne M. Morgan St. Patrick’s Day is fast approaching. On March 17th, we celebrate the life of the Saint and all things Irish. Since I was born in Ireland, St. Patrick holds a special place in my heart. My ancestors also shared history with the Saint as my father’s family worked with him as St. Patrick’s bell keepers. Many people know the name of St. Patrick based on the holiday in his honor. But who was he, and what did he do? History of St. Patrick According to the autobiographical Confessio of Patrick, when he was about 16, he was captured by Irish pirates and taken to Ireland as a slave. He remained there for six years before escaping the island and returning to his family in Britain. After becoming a cleric, he returned to northern and western Ireland. Patrick served as a bishop in later life, but little is known about those years. By the seventh century, he was revered as the patron saint of Ireland. Many believe he died around the year 461. He is buried in a town named Downpatrick. Lessons from the Saint First, I learned about his missionary heart. Even though he was kidnapped and forced into slavery in Ireland, Patrick learned to love the Irish people. After his freedom, Patrick returned home to England, but he heard the Irish people calling to him in his dreams. Those dreams prompted him to become a priest and return to Ireland. St. Patrick turned life’s tragic events into a ministry of serving others.

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Second, I learned about his beautiful way of explaining the Holy Trinity in simple terms. Patrick used the shamrock to explain this concept to the pagans in Ireland. He explained that the plant’s three leaves represented the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. But even though the plant had three separate leaves, it remained a single plant. The shamrock later became the symbol for St. Patrick and the Irish. To this day, many people still use this symbol to help others under the triune nature of God. Finally, I learned how Patrick comprehended the importance of keeping Christ close to him at all times. His breastplate bore these words: “Christ be within me, Christ behind me, Christ before me, Christ beside me, Christ to win me, Christ to comfort and restore me, Christ beneath me, Christ above me, Christ inquired, Christ in danger, Christ in hearts of all that love me, Christ in mouth of friend and stranger.” St. Patrick’s Breastplate These simple words speak a profound truth to us today as well. We must remain closely connected to Christ and see Him in everyone and everything around us. Myths about the St. Patrick’s Day One of the common myths associated with the Saint is that he drove the snakes out of Ireland. The truth is that Ireland probably never had any snakes. It is more likely that it is an allegory for his eradication of pagan ideology—with snakes standing in for the serpents of Druid mythology.

Another common belief is that corned beef and cabbage are served as a traditional St. Patrick’s day meal in Ireland. However, my family had never heard of corned beef until we immigrated to America. Irish corned beef was extremely popular in England in the first half of the 1800s. Still, it was far too expensive for rural Irish tenant farmers to eat. Another myth is how the Irish celebrate this day. St. Patrick’s Day is not as big a holiday in Ireland. Until the 1700s, it was simply one of many Roman Catholic feasts and only observed in Ireland. There was no raucous drinking of green beer or kissing anyone because they were Irish. Instead, like all religious feasts, it was spent somberly praying at home or in church. St. Patrick’s Example to us

Having witnessed the power of prayer in her own life, Yvonne M Morgan shares stories of trusting the Lord and watching Christ in action. She loves to travel and spending time with her children and grandchildren. Apart from writing Christian nonfiction, Morgan writes for several magazines and blogs. Her books provide great help to those who are struggling in their journey with Christ. Blog at Turningmountainsintomolehills.org Twitter: @ymmauthor Website: Yvonne-Morgan.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/YMMauthor/

Patrick was a humble, pious, gentle man whose love Books: and total devotion to and trust in God should be a Turning Mountains into Molehills (2017) shining example to each of us. Yet, so complete was his faith in God, and of the importance of his mission, he feared nothing -not even death. So as you celebrate his day this year, please take a moment to remember the Saint behind the celebration and all he taught us about faith. Yvonne M Morgan, Christian author and speaker In honor of this Godly man, I leave you with an Irish Blessing;

“May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face; the rains fall soft upon your fields and until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand.”

https://yvonne-morgan.com

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BE STILL

By Gina Sewell

Do you ever feel you are always fighting? Fighting with your spouse, with your kids, even with yourself? You feel you have a constant battle going on. Then, in other circumstances, you may be fighting just to keep your head above water. People may tell you, “Keep fighting. Don’t ever give up.” Well, that is good advice, but I think sometimes God just wants us to be still. While going through all of these struggles, we begin to focus so much on the fighting that we can’t even hear God anymore. I remember one day when I was really struggling, and I was praying and telling God all of my “list of complaints” and in my spirit, I heard, “Peace!” very sharply, followed by a gentle, “be still.”

God showed me I was so focused on the negativity that I felt surrounding me that I could not see or appreciate the blessings in my life. He led me straight to the Word, where I began to read and slowly find my peace. We are always going to have problems in this world, but God is right there with us through them all. Trust Him. “Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Romans 5:1 NIV) “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33 ESV) “And the effect of righteousness will be peace, and the result of righteousness, quietness and trust forever.” (Isaiah 32:17 ESV)

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 20 | M AG A Z I N E N A M E PAGE 3 20

MARCH PRAYER By Tynea Lewis

Dear Heavenly Father,

Tynea Lewis is a teacher turned workfrom-home mom. She and her husband live in Pennsylvania with their two children, and they love spending time together at their family cabin. Tynea remembers loving to write as early as first grade. She has a heart for encouraging others in the midst of their messes. You can connect with her at her personal blog (www.tynea-lewis.com), on Instagram (@TyneaLewis), or Facebook (@TyneaLewisWriter).

We pray for everyone who needs healing. Lord, you know exactly what they are facing at this moment. You know if the healing they need is physical, mental, emotional, or spiritual. You know each person so intimately, and you desire wholeness for them. Lord, thank you for being with us through each of our trials. Even when we are unwell, you do not forsake us. You will not turn your back on us. Thank you for hearing our cries to you. Lord, even when we are frustrated and discouraged, help us turn to you. Remind us that you hold us in your arms. We trust in you. We know that for some, healing won’t come this side of heaven. Lord, that is so hard to accept, but in you we have hope. We know that when we have placed our trust in Jesus, the restoration will come one day. What a glorious day that will be! We know that the troubles of this world are temporary. We praise you for the victory you have over all brokenness. Thank you for caring for us so deeply that you want each of us to have a relationship with you. Lord, you are the ultimate healer. We lift up each person who needs healing. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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DON’T BE TROUBLED 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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It was the eve of the crucifixion of Jesus. Gathered in the Upper Room, the disciples listened as He began to speak His final words to them. Distress began to flood their emotions until they were greatly upset by several things He said. A betrayer was among them, and Jesus was leaving them. Peter was soon to deny Him. How could that be? Hadn’t he just declared that he would lay down his life for Jesus? The foundation of their world was starting to shake violently, and life as they knew it would abruptly end. What were they to do? Because the days ahead would be tempestuous and extremely difficult, Jesus directed them, “Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me.” (John 14:1 NKJV). The imminent storms will assail and buffet you, but you must not be troubled by them. Just as you believe in God, you must also believe in, and trust me. And to help them during their turmoil, Jesus bequeathed His peace to them, “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” (John 14:27 NKJV). He offered them His peace, not the fragile, tenuous, or even counterfeit peace the world can offer only in the absence of trouble; but a peace which could prevail even during trouble. The One who calmed the wind and the waves with the simple command, “Peace, be still,” could surely calm the fiercest raging tempests of their human hearts with His peace.

Abundance and Poverty By Dave Evans

Out of their abundance men contribute to the treasury; no sacrifice, no loss--out of her poverty a widow sacrifices, a loss of her livelihood — a gift to God Today, conditions in our world seem to be spiraling out of control. News reports trumpet out one dreadful and distressing event after another. Conflicting and contradictory information challenges us to sift through it all to find where the actual truth lies. Myriad and severe problems are disturbing our nation, making serious disorder imminently possible. It’s enough to overwhelm and trouble our hearts if we allow it to do so. We must not succumb, though, be troubled by the circumstances, and forfeit the peace that Jesus gives us. Instead, we must trust Jesus and allow His peace to pervade our souls and calm and comfort us in troubling times. The respected theologian, Albert Barnes, elaborated on the peace that Jesus offers. “My peace is such as meets all the wants of the soul, silences the alarms of conscience, is fixed and sure amid all external changes, and will abide in the hour of death and forever. How desirable, in a world of anxiety and care, to possess this peace! and how should all who have it not, seek that which the world can neither give nor take away!”

Dear Lord, please forgive me for allowing my heart to be troubled in those times when I’ve yielded to fear and doubt instead of trusting in you, especially during the storms of life. Help me to place my trust in you at all times so I can know and experience your peace even when the world around me is erupting in chaos.

Out of the abundance of Heaven’s treasury the Father sent His Son; to live in poverty in order to sacrifice all—His own life, a gift to man Now, out of His poverty, His sacrificial bequest ransoms me out of poverty and transfers me into spiritual abundance Lord, grant that, out of the abundance of my heart I might speak life-giving words so others may be redeemed out of poverty into an abundant life in Christ. “For all these out of their abundance have put in offerings for God, but she out of her poverty put in all the livelihood she had.” (Luke 21:4 NKJV) “For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that you through His poverty might become rich.” (II Corinthians 8:9 NKJV) “… I am come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” (John 10:10b NKJV) “… For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.” (Matthew 12:34b NKJV)

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TRAPPED IN AN ANTIQUE MALL By Steve Wilson

My wife and I periodically enjoy strolling through an antique mall or antiquities shop. Neither of us is necessarily an antique collector but we enjoy the memories that come flooding back at us as we slowly walk down the aisles, admiring the collision of decades as if the memory makers were all thrown into an enormous bowl, vigorously stirred and tossed back on their shelves. If history had an aroma, it would probably comprise the odorous mix of old wood, varnish, lacquer, fabric, mildew, and perhaps more than a little dust thrown in to create a musty grandma smell which excitedly greets you and embraces your olfactory system as you walk through the doors to the past. Once inside, any little bauble or ancient treasure can transport you back in time. A fragile bell-shaped glass Christmas ornament with hand-painted stripes pulled me back to when I was a child, anticipating the arrival of Santa and the special gifts he would leave. Sometimes before Christmas, I would lie on my back and scoot on top of the glitter laden cotton batting tree skirt, under the decorated tree, being ever mindful of the hot colored bulbs strung overhead and the pine needles that would dig into my skin and brush across my face if I was not careful. Once in place, I would look up, totally fascinated at my personal holiday paradise. The brightly colored lights played off the garland, ornaments, and icicles that hung from the evergreen and the pungent smell of pine intensified the total intoxication of the moment. Today, the sight of a young, small lifeless body under the decorated conifer would provoke panic and probably induce a passing thought of child endangerment, but at the time only brought about a total sense of awe and wonderment. 24 | M AG A Z I N E N A M E PAGE 3 24

On another shelf, my wife spies an Elf on the Shelf, his mischievous face frozen in time, his once bright red felt body now dark pink and showing its age. Nevertheless, Jenny is reduced to a child, her copper-haired ringlets bouncing about as she remembers searching high and low for the inanimate imp. Her freckled face lights up and her chestnut eyes grow wide as the ornery elf is discovered on the shelf above the pale blue scratchy sofa. The little six-yearold wonders if the elf saw her teasing her younger brothers and worse yet, whether the plastic dwarf had reported her misdeeds to Santa. A sense of guilt and dread filled her tiny body as she remembers confessing under her breath and promising to be good. These vignettes are just a small sampling of the memories that flood our minds as we wander about the musty aisles. We are grateful for the visual reminders or “triggers” that transport us to a particular place and time. However, as we walk out of the antique mall, we are once again made aware of the present with all its future memories to create and opportunities to explore. However, for some, the cold reality of their lives has left them emotionally paralyzed, their eyes glazed over in grief, fear, pain, or anger. The feeling of hopelessness heightens their sense of helplessness as they meander through their days. Oftentimes, their only escape from their present misery is to look back, to reminisce of better times, to linger on “the good ole days”… unaware of their present despair, they willingly lose their grasp with reality; embracing instead the jealous mistress of their distorted past. They are essentially trapped in an antique mall.

A healthcare Business Analyst by trade, Steve Wilson is a retired husband, father and grandfather who loves to see and write about finding God in the everyday. Originally from Ohio, he and his wife Jenny now live in Granite Falls, North Carolina. In his spare time, Steve enjoys reflective writing, dabbling in stained glass and, of course, spending time with their daughter and her family. www.lifesimplyspoken.com

Still, others pitch their tent and camp out in the cemetery of self-pity. They slowly pass by each headstone and read the epitaphs as if they are long-lost friends lying in state. However, each tombstone represents their own regrets… “I blamed my parents for all my mistakes”, “I should have treated my kids better but I chose the bottle over my family”, “I cheated my company out of thousands”, “I didn’t mean to hurt my wife; I need help!” Wearing their black cloak of pride draped across their shoulders, they pass each grave of regret, pause, and ponder, bending down only to lay their wreath of bitterness and shame, gradually moving on to the next. So what makes the difference in humanity where one person is basking in the warmth of a treasured memory but, in contrast, another is shivering in the presence of the man in the mirror? Forgiveness. Hope. And the first yields the latter. True forgiveness to God first. 1 John 1:8-10 (NKJV) says, “If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us.” We’re not perfect, we make mistakes… and we sin. That doesn’t need to be the end of the story. We need to confess our wrongdoings and maintain a healthy relationship with the only One who really knows us—God. But sometimes it is even harder to forgive ourselves than to seek God’s forgiveness. It’s at those times we must remind ourselves that there is no sin so great it cannot be pardoned through grace.

And let us not forget, we must forgive others for their transgressions, regardless of whether they are real or imagined. Colossians 3:13 (NIV) reads, “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” Forgiveness begins the complete healing process: spiritually, emotionally, and at times, physically. And once we have a spiritually healthy heart, we once again have the room to hope. Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV) states, “For, I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Hope AND a future! How awesome is that? And even though we don’t know what the future will bring, it is our responsibility to make sure we are making the right decisions today to ensure a future full of hope and great memories for a lifetime. So the next time you decide to browse through the local antique mall, ask yourself this question, “am I in here to visit for a while and enjoy some healthy memories, or am I tempted to make it an extended stay”? I HOPE you will choose wisely and live life to the full!

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Cleaning Out the Cistern By Peter Caligiuri

“But whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” (John 4:16 ESV)

Peter Caligiuri has been writing since he was a teenager. Both short poems and devotionals have appeared in various periodicals such as Secret Place, Breakthrough Intercessor, and The Upper Room. Peter holds a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education/English from Western Connecticut State College. He also attended Elim Bible College. He is now retired and lives with his wife Nancy in New Port Richey, Florida where they are members of Generations Christian Church. Together they have two awesome sons, six lively grandsons, and one very special granddaughter! Peter’s blog is located at http://www. praise2worship.net/

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In Jesus’ day, a rain-water cistern was a common source of water. I know about cisterns because, on the farm where I lived as a teenager, that was where our water came from. But having grown up in the city, I didn’t realize just exactly how dirty it could become. Then one summer I was asked to clean it when it was almost empty. First, they lowered me down by ropes, and then I spent about two hours bailing out the remaining water and scrubbing the bottom with bleach water. I will never forget the mud and other assorted stuff we bailed out, and how great I felt when the following year we had a real well drilled! The religious experience of many of us is like getting water from a cistern. We go to church on Sunday for a good scrubbing, and then get refilled. After we walk out the door, all kinds of gunk falls in during the week and we need another cleaning by the weekend. But Jesus is offering more than just a good scrubbing now and then. He says that when He enters into our lives; He becomes an unending spring of pure water that leads us to eternal life. Instead of cleaning out and refilling our cistern, Jesus offers to drop spiritual dynamite into our hearts when we come to His cross. At the cross, Jesus once and for all scrubs us clean from our sins and then connects us to the well of living water that gives eternal life. There is no more scrubbing out the cistern when Jesus comes in to drill the well!

I’ll Fly Away! By Peter Caligiuri

“The days of our years are threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength they be fourscore years, yet is their strength labour and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away.” (Psalm 90:10 KJV) Years ago, I used to visit an elderly couple from our church who, because of age and its attending aches and pains, no longer could come to Sunday services. In the corner of their little apartment, they kept a cage with two parakeets that tweeted happily off and on during our time, especially when we began to sing. It seemed that their favorite song was, “I’ll Fly Away” because if their cage door was left open, they got especially enthusiastic and during the music, they would swoop out with their wingtips brushing by my head and then perch up on top of the kitchen cabinets. In their balcony seat, they seemed quite at home and didn’t miss a note in their singing. Now both of those birds as well as my dear friends have flown off to the presence of Jesus. Sometimes I imagine them looking down from their advantage point, still singing and waiting for me and my guitar to come join them. We can be blessed and comforted with the joy of knowing that if our hearts belong to Him, Jesus promises that when He returns, we will fly away to meet Him in the air!

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A FRESH START By Dr. Irene Surya

I sat forlorn in a cage With a burden so heavy I wanted to fly far and wide But knew not the way out. At the cross My Savior died, to save me, A wretched sinner from sin And has risen again to glory. A fresh start to a life Brimming with peace The peace in God Through peace with God. 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.

At the cross My burden rolled away I bid adieu to my past And turned a new leaf. A fresh start to a life Overflowing with joy, The joy of being a sanctuary Of God, my refuge. At the cross I was forgiven. I flew to everlasting freedom From the cage of bondage. A fresh start to a life Encompassed in love. The love of the Almighty God Who bought me paying a ransom. At the cross My pilgrimage began I run my race With the eternal home in sight.

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Team@faithoneverycorner@gmail.com

Judy Barr 5 Star Google Review Karen at Faith on Every Corner is absolutely amazing! She is sharp and experienced. She has helped my company obtain a much larger social media presence with ads that are perfect! I highly recommend Karen and her company for all of your social media/advertising needs. Melissa Henderson 5 Star Google Review A wonderful company that provides inspiration and encouragement. The online magazine offers opportunity for writers and readers to grow in faith. Owners Karen and Craig Ruhl offer professional consulting services and more. I highly recommend Faith On Every Corner, LLC Hannarich Asiedu 5 Star Google Review Craig and Karen go above and beyond in everything. They’re truly living the talk of being followers of Christ. I’m not only a contributor to their magazine, but they have become a family of mine. Praying with me and guiding me in my journey to becoming a published author. I highly recommend their services. You’ll never regret it!

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Brenda McDaniel is the author of My Angel My Hero with two more books soon to be published. She is from Roanoke, VA. She holds a B.S in Psychology and M.A. in Counseling. She has enjoyed writing poetry and short stories, even as a small child. Brenda says she is now living her dream come true! CLICK ON BOOK TO PURCHASE

THE LORD’S HEALING POWER By Brenda McDaniel Through the years, I have seen God’s power and healing. Healing emotionally, mentally, physically, and spiritually. There were times when I struggled. When I felt depressed and that I couldn’t go on. Sometimes people fail you, even your loved ones. They don’t always know or care if they hurt you deeply. Because they may also be in pain. They may strike out to make others hurt like them. The only one who can heal such pain or anger is the Lord. He gives you a forgiving and loving spirit. Although it’s difficult, over time, the hurt and anger dissipates or lessens. There is also mental healing. Sometimes confusion, lack of self-esteem and failure cause mental pain. Or with a disability, mental illness occurs and causes mental instability. My father, (Henry), suffered deep pain mentally, as he had schizophrenia. There is no cure. It’s a genetic disorder. But psychiatric meds helped relieve his hallucinations and anxiety. Although his disturbed thoughts continued, he had more peace mentally. Also, our family’s continued prayers helped him stay out of the hospital. And our continued love and support helped too.

Then there is physical pain that we all suffer. Such as heart problems. My dad lived with heart failure for many years. The new heart meds helped him live a long life, into his mid-eighties. And my brother, mom, and I have had high blood pressure problems. The meds helped us live without the serious side effects of high blood pressure. Mom, (Olga), suffered from intestinal cancer and had a tumor removed. Later on in her life, she developed spinal and kidney cancer, passing away in her mid-eighties. My brother, (Steven), had two different cancers: tongue and skin. He had surgery several times, that eventually cured him. So you see, the Lord’s will isn’t always curing your health problems. If it’s his will, as in my parents’ passing, he may take them home. My parents fought hard to live but finally accepted death. And because they deeply loved the Lord, they looked forward to their homecoming. Over and over, other physical problems were cured or controlled. Our prayers helped too and the Lord gave us many blessings. Now the most important healing in life is spiritual. If your spirit isn’t right with the Lord, your life will be miserable and senseless. But if you have love, faith, and hope in the Lord? Your life will be full and your spirit at peace. No matter what problems may arise. For our hope is in the Lord always. “These things I have spoken into you, that in me you might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” (John 6-33 KJV)

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TREES

by Karen Ruhl

Did you know that other than people, trees are the most mentioned living thing in the Bible?

I love trees all year long. I love that they show us about life. They start with a simple seed, sprout, and fight the elements and nature’s creatures just to survive. As they mature, they continue to grow. They provide shade, and some provide food. As they age, it shows in their limbs and their trunks. Even during this time, they are useful. “And out of the ground the Lord God made every tree grow that is pleasant to the sight and good for food. The tree of life was also in the midst of the garden, and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.” (Genesis 2:9 NKJV) Trees can teach us quite a bit about life. ... When a strong wind blows, trees often bend to keep from breaking. Sometimes we have to bend a bit so we don’t break from the strain of life. ... During the winter, trees rest only to emerge in the Spring full of life. We often rush around and try to fit so much into our lives that we wear down. Rest is important, not a few minutes here and there, but a long period of time when you declutter your life and rest. ...We can age gracefully. Even as the tree is in the end stages of its life, it is still beautiful and useful. It teaches us to respect the life cycle. Next time you see a tree. Remember how precious they are in God’s sight. Blessed are those who do His commandments, that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter through the gates into the city. (Revelation 22:14 NKJV)

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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.

NEW BEGINNINGS By Cindy Oriol I remember as a child going to the park for the very first time. We lived on a street where there were no parks. We barely had sidewalks to walk on and most of them had enormous cracks across the curbs. Our street was always busy with the traffic going at a pace that was pretty fast, so we played in our side yard that was probably the size of an alley. I remember my brother and his wife taking my siblings and me to the park to fly our kites. My kite was full of many bright colors of the rainbow. I was completely fascinated by how this beautiful object with a tail and a piece of string could stay up in the air as long as I ran with it. I loved watching it soar in the air and dip down low to the ground but not touch it only to fly higher and higher above the trees. March is the season when things that have been in the dirt for some time begin to come alive again. In 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NKJV), “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” We can say the same thing about the flowers, shrubs, and trees that we plant. The old ones have died and laid dormant for a while, and now their new lives have begun.

I remember playing in the alley from our backyard with my siblings and our friends. One day, I looked up and saw the largest and tallest flower I had ever seen. It was bright yellow and in the center of it were white and black seeds. When I asked my father while describing it, he told me it was a sunflower and that if we roasted the seeds, we could actually eat them. To this day I love the taste of them, especially when I eat the kernels in my salad. God’s creation is everywhere you look. The beauty of this magnificent earth can not be comparable to what our glorious Heaven must be. I enjoy taking my time to look at the flower petals of a dogwood tree. Some are baby pink and white and others are different variations of color. Their shapes and sizes are different as well. The leaves are so delicate with their beautiful etchings. It is as if God painted each petal. Not only do I like to look at them, but I love to smell their fragrance of distinct aromas especially the scent of the lilac tree and the rose bush.

Between the month of March and mid-April, a trip to Washington, D.C is a must-see. This is when the city’s famous cherry blossoms are in bloom. The best viewing of these trees typically lasts four to seven days after peak bloom begins, but under ideal weather conditions, the blossoms can last up to two Every springtime I loved to watch my mother plant her flowers in the front yard. She did not have a large weeks. During this time of your visit, you’ll find that area, but she planted some impatiens, petunias, and the nation’s capital is accented in pink for the national cherry blossom festival. The homes are also lined pansies. She enjoyed her flowers, and they brought color to the small, dull area in the front of our home. up on both sides of the streets. You can just open your windows and the fragrance comes through like a sweet perfume.

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Another part of spring I enjoy is when the animals peek their heads out of their homes after they have hibernated for the winter. The birds that have flown south to escape the cold, frigid temperatures come back home. They feel the warmth of the sun (Son) and know that winter has passed and spring has begun. My husband, John and I love to watch the beautiful birds out our sliding glass door that land on our bird feeder daily. Sometimes we will have as many as six to seven different species. We have seen cardinals, doves, wrens, various sparrows, and now and then we spot a blue jay. Every morning, John feeds them. They wait patiently for him to fill their tray. As soon as he is finished and comes inside, here comes the birds. I love to watch the squirrels that come into the yard to eat the feed that the birds have kicked out while eating. One day while we were watching them we saw “Scrawny”. We nicknamed him this because he was so thin and very little. He positioned his little body on one of the patio chairs and was balancing himself on one handle of the chair. Suddenly, we heard a whimper coming from him. He was crying. John recorded his sad little voice to share with others. It was pitiful hearing him cry like that. The mother instinct in me wanted to go out and comfort him, but I knew as soon as we would slide the glass door back, he would run away. Instead, I spoke to him saying, “Do not cry little one, everything is all right.” He turned his little body around while still balancing himself, looking straight at me and his crying deceased.

We have a sanctuary right in front of us every day. comprising birds, squirrels, and now and then, we will see a mallard drake and a hen. We enjoy watching the ducks frolic and play in the puddles of water after a good soaking rain. We read in Genesis 1:11 (NIV), that God said, “Let the land produce vegetation: seed-bearing plants and trees on the land that bear fruit with seed in it according to their various kinds.” And in Genesis 1:24 (NIV), God said, “Let the land produce living creatures according to their kinds: livestock, creatures that move along the ground, and wild animals, each according to its kind.” In Christ Love, Cindy Oriol

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Karen-Ruhl.pixels.com

Young geese at the Broyhill Walking Park, Lenoir, NC

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Road Trippin’ March Throwback! by Karen Ruhl

March is the beginning of the budding season in many places. The cherry tree below is in our front yard. It brings us smiles every year as the cherry blossoms come to life. While driving not far from home, we see the sites of the farms and animals. We usually spot new calves or colts and enjoy the older barns and how well they are maintained. It is our hope and prayer that we can take a road trip in March for our April Issue. Get out there and enjoy this beautiful place God created for us!

We live in the foothills of The Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina. Driving around town or almost anywhere in the county, brings views of more foothills or the mountains themselves.

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Driving Big Sur in California was always a treat.

As I look through my photos, I realize that we have been so blessed to visit so many mountains and landmarks across the United States. Each place we visit has its own personality and beauty. We can not encourage you enough to take time to be with your family and travel when and where you can. Sometimes we are reminded that time is shorter than we think. Blessings to you all. - Karen All photos are copyright Karen Ruhl 2022

Idyllwild is nestled in the San Jacinto Mountains, in Southern California.

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Oatman, Arizona

One of my favorites. Donkeys lining up for the big sale! On the left - I think he smells our snacks! Remnants of an old village in Oatman, Arizona.

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What Does St. Patrick’s Day Mean to Me? by Sharon K. Connell

St. Patrick’s Day is what most people think of in the month of March. Everyone wants to be Irish for one day. While it’s a day for the wearin’ o’ the green, and pinching those who don’t, it’s also a day when many get drunk. Is that what the day is all about? I trow not. The celebration on March seventeenth started in 1631 when a Feast Day for honoring St. Patrick was established. So who was this man Ireland honors one day a year? I’m glad you asked. I’d like to tell you about the faith of a man called St. Patrick. Oh, that we could have the faith of this man. What mountains we could move. From what I’ve read about Patrick (whose real name may have been Maewyn Succat, according to research) he truly sought to bring God’s amazing grace to a pagan nation. He brought the Gospel to the people of Ireland. The feast day of March 17 remembers Patrick as the one who led a fifth-century Christian mission to Ireland. Unlike Britain, the Emerald Isle was beyond the bounds of the Roman Empire. The Irish were considered uncivilized barbarians, and many thought their illiteracy and volatile emotionalism put them outside the reach of the gospel. I gleaned this information from The Faith and Mission of Saint Patrick, an article by David Mathis, Executive Editor at desiringGod.org. 38 | M AG A Z I N E N A M E PAGE 38

Patrick was born in what is now northeast England around the year 385. His father was a deacon in whatever religion they were a part of at the time (probably something akin to Presbyterians), and his grandfather a priest or presbyter. His mother instilled Scripture in him. However, according to George Hunter in his book, The Celtic Way of Evangelism, Patrick apparently rebelled and lived a wild life. So what happened to this British Patrick, and why does everyone think he’s Irish? Why does everyone, Catholics, Protestants, as well as the Irish, want to claim him? Kidnapped at the age of 16, Patrick was taken from England to Ireland and served as a slave for six years under a tribal chief, a druid. During that time, God opened Patrick’s eyes to the gospel of his childhood, and he developed a softened heart for the Irish people (not unlike missionaries of today serving in foreign lands). He not only learned their language but their culture. By the time he escaped, he was a Christian and a changed man. Back in England, he studied for the ministry, and led a parish in Britain for around twenty years. Patrick could have stayed in England, but at the age of forty-eight, he apparently felt a Macedonian Call (Acts 16:9). Again, according to George Hunter’s book, “an Irish accent pleaded, ‘We appeal to you, holy servant boy, to come and walk among us.’” Patrick returned to Ireland.

Author, Sharon K. Connell lives 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’s also written many award-winning short stories in a variety of genres. 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.

Click on photo to order Sharon’s books.

In some ways, Patrick strikes me as being much like The Apostle Paul. Philippians 1:12 (AKJV) states, “But I would ye should understand, brethren, that the things which happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel;” It makes me wonder if I would be so loving and forgiving to a people who had enslaved me. Would I have enough grace to evangelize them? Years ago, I was in possession of a small poster that told of Patrick founding a church in Ireland. I wish I could tell you the source of that poster, but it is long gone now. But other research found that Patrick founded his ecclesiastical center in what is now Armagh City, near the ancient center of power in Ulster, where the Protestant cathedral now stands. He is laid to rest on the grounds of the Protestant cathedral in Downpatrick. For Patrick to build a church and preach in Ireland was evidence of the faith that he had in God. He had been captured in a raid, became a slave, and was forced to tend his master’s sheep in Ireland. Yet, he obviously grew to love the people of Ireland. Now I ask you, would you have done it?

She is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers, Scribes Critique Group, Houston Writers Guild, and CyFair Writers. She is also 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. Visit the offical website of Sharon K. Connell https://www.authorsharonkconnell.com/

“But as we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, which trieth our hearts.” (1 Thessalonians 2:4 AKJV) We live in what is called a Christian nation, although personally, I don’t see much Christianity in it anymore. There are people all around us who are lost and on their way to hell. We’re not in America as slaves. We’re not really abused as Christians, although I do know abuse goes on in this country. We have the freedom of speech. But do we use that freedom to proclaim the Gospel to others? Or do we let them stumble on through life not knowing there’s a God who loves them and wants to keep them out of hell? Our fellow Americans have not stolen us away from our families, as was the case for Patrick. And yet, he went back to bring the Gospel to the people of Ireland so they could hear the Good News. He had a burden for souls. Do we? “and for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel,” (Ephesians 6:19 AKJV)

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A CHANGE OF SCENERY by Shara Bueler-Repka

We prayed for confirmation on which “trail” to take, needing to make sure that “check” was from the Lord and not just our own hearts wanting to visit our friend. (1 John 4:1)

We rolled toward our destination with a big question mark looming above us. Where did God want us? My husband, Bruce, and I live on the road full-time with our horses and music ministry, traveling to wherever the Lord sends us. But sometimes discerning His destination isn’t so easy. A good friend of ours asked us to sing/minister again at a venue we attended for the past few years. We always had a blast hanging out there, and we’d made many friends through the years. And the people at the cowboy church at the end of the weekend were always receptive, as the Holy Spirit moved. And, to be honest, it sure didn’t hurt that they graciously gave a generous love offering, monetarily blessing our travels. Even though the provision is never our focus, anxious thoughts try to invade: “I hope there’s enough for… (fill in the blank: diesel, hay bills…). Our friend who invited us patiently waited for our answer… Yes? No? Usually, we’d have jumped at the chance to go again. But a “check” in our spirits alerted us that the Lord may need us elsewhere. This impression started after receiving a phone call from another friend in another state, inviting us to come up to her ranch. We knew she was struggling, but we all walk through those “valleys”, and usually, just phone conversations could suffice.

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The closer we got to the scheduled venue, the stronger the “check.” Bruce and I decided we were not supposed to be at that venue. We didn’t want to disappoint our friend, but we had to decline his offer. Our friend kindly understood, informing us that God had already moved someone else to provide music for the cowboy church. Truth is, we realized later that this was God’s plan all along. And a little side note here? If we had pushed aside that Holy Spirit “check”, we would have pushed this other musician out of what the Lord had called him to do. How many of God’s perfect plans have been squelched because someone forced themselves into a position, not theirs to take? We swung onto this new “trail”, this change of scenery, and headed to our ranch-friend. The closer we got to her place, the more peace we felt that this was the right decision. (Romans 5:1-2) However, there was one hitch-in-the-get-along. Getting into her ranch was going to prove difficult for our rig because of the terrain. But God had that figured out, too. The day we were to pull in, our friend called. “Hey,” she said, “I just ran into a friend of mine who lives down the road from me.” I could hear her smile over the phone. “I told her our dilemma, and she said you guys could hook up on her ranch for as long as you need.” We drove down the dusty road toward our new destination. Two goats and a horse galloped beside the fence line, bleating and neighing their greetings as we rolled toward the entrance.

We happily watched them until we rounded the corner. A small wooden bridge revealed itself, and we held our breath as we squeezed our large rig between its borders. Carefully eyeing the sides of our trailer, we barely cleared the wooden sideboards. We kept an eye on the top of our rig, too, making sure we didn’t inadvertently trim trees with low-hanging branches.

“I just remembered today that I recently cried to the Lord, asking Him to send us help to care for our animals,” she said, barely getting the words out. “My husband just found a job in another town, I homeschool my boy, and we’re having a hard time keeping up with the work here.” She smiled as a tear streamed down her cheeks. “You guys showed up the next week.”

Breathing a sigh of relief, we made our way up the narrow dirt driveway. Chicken and rooster coops dotted the spacious yard. We cruised around the circle and more horses greeted us at the pasture fence.

It was my turn to be teary-eyed.

We were to discover later that this myriad of God’s creatures was only a fraction of the ranch’s residents. A mobile home, long abandoned by humans, now housed an entourage of more show-chickens, show-roosters, a colorful assortment of parrots, and a cat. In other outlying buildings and the barn were homes to more chickens, ducks, other species of birds, and a tortoise. We pulled our rig into a spot, turned our horses loose in a big paddock, and joined the crew. This, it turned out, would be our home for the next two months. We were five minutes down the road from our friend, who needed fellowship more than we knew. But God knew. And, never looking for a handout, we offered to help our “landlord” with the feeding and care of their little “zoo”. The owner gladly accepted and, because they didn’t live there, this arrangement saved them many trips to and from town. About two weeks into our stay, I stood by our trailer, talking to the ranch owner’s son as one of his beloved chickens perched proudly on his shoulder.

Funny how God dares us to leave our comfort zones, or what seems normal. To change that scenery, we’re so used to. Are we willing to take a chance and face the unknown? Are we willing to trust His leading and His care, even when the trail, at first, doesn’t make sense? God met all of our friends’ needs, as well as all of ours. We had what we needed, when we needed it—a beautiful place to ride, hay for our horses, spiritual refreshing, etc., and even fresh eggs from the chickens. And we got to share our music during our stay, in a different way. (Matthew 6:33) When we rolled out after those two months, toward our next adventure, our confidence had grown in the love of our God, who truly cares for every detail in our lives. And our trust continues to be strengthened in His wisdom of life’s big picture. We’re also learning that in every adventure He leads us to and through, He always gives us a choice whether or not we are all in. “Your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “This is the way, walk in it,” Whenever you turn to the right hand Or whenever you turn to the left. (Isaiah 30:21 NKJV)

His mom strolled up, and we started to chat. Her eyes welled up. Click book cover to learn more.

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Faith On Every Corner Bookshelf February was a busy and eventful month for the Faith On Every Corner staff. Craig suffered a heart attack and was hospitalized the first half of the month. He is home and recovering well. Karen continues to be his full-time caregiver. As a result, we were not able to complete reading some of the books we had scheduled for review in the March issue. We will be sharing those reviews starting again in April and will catch up as quickly as possible. In the meantime, here are a few of the books we have on our desk to read. Please click on the links provided to learn more about the authors, their book, and purchase copies. Thank you for your patience and your continued prayers.

Under The Tangerine by Esther M. Bandy

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 Becoming God’s Epic by Billy Murchison, Jr.

Beauty Beyond The Thorns by Darci J. Steiner, MS

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Craig’s background includes over thirty years of experience as a counselor in a variety of treatment settings including psychiatric hospitals, schools for the blind, organizations for the physically handicapped, churches, and outpatient settings. He also possesses ten years of experience in pastoral ministry. To date, he has published six books and has had a large number of other works published in a wide variety of magazines. Craig founded an outpatient practice that provides counseling, coaching, and consulting services to individuals, marriages, families, various businesses as well as church and ministry organizations. Craig is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado, a Certified Professional Life Coach, and an Ordained Minister. https://craiglpc.com/ mailto:craiglpc4@gmail.com

I Heard a Robin Hope in the Dark

By Craig D. Lounsbrough, M. Div., LPC We all create expectations. But how often are our expectations a wholesale surrendering of ‘what could be’ to ‘what is?’ How often are they borne of a discouraged soul and a frightened heart that cannot see beyond the realities of the moment so as to envision a brighter reality standing at the ready in the next moment? How many times have we taken the darkness of today and handily projected it onto the landscape of a tomorrow that is, in fact, full of light? How many times have we expected that failure will be our lot, disappointment our bedfellow, and that this curse is somehow our due? We create expectations because that’s what we do, so we’d better be very careful as to how we create them.

First, we have a tendency to focus on the negative experiences that we have had for fear that the positive ones weren’t authentic, or if perchance they were, they’re unlikely to come our way again. Second, we build a faith that’s safe, which means that it’s ‘faith’ in name only and therefore it holds no power. Third, our vision is limited by the walls that we’ve meticulously constructed all around ourselves in order to protect us against imaginary enemies, or at least enemies that are not nearly as gigantic as we’ve given them permission to become. And while it’s obvious that far more goes into the creation of our expectations than these three ingredients alone, these would appear to be inordinately impacting.

What Shapes Our Expectations

Making ‘What Is,’ ‘What Will Be’

There are an innumerable array of elements that mold and craft our expectations. However, there are several that seem to directly impact most, if not all, of the rest. In and of themselves, these three are certain to kill our vision and utterly convince us that tomorrow will surely embody the darkness of today. Left unchecked, to bleed into the other areas of our lives, they can leave us destitute.

Because these appear to be an inherent part of us, we gather up the sum total of our negative experiences, we fall victim to them because the lackluster nature of our purported faith can do no other, and we hold them hostage to these incessantly compressing walls of ours. And in this ever-weary concoction of negativity, faithless faith, and massive walls, everything coalesces to shape a distorted observation of ‘what is,’ which then goes on to shape these rather dark expectations of ‘what will be.’

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Therefore, our expectations are constricted to what will ‘not’ happen versus being exuberantly expanded to embrace what actually might. We project the misery of the present onto the landscape of the future and render it such before we even get there to better ascertain what it might actually be. We live with this morbid expectation that nothing will get better, that the future is eternally doomed to be nothing more than the past in redress, and that any hope of something better would be yet another expectation disappointed when we feel far too fragile to bear yet another disappointment of any sort at all. Hope Deferred The morning was yet dark as if the darkness was purposefully lingering despite a morning that should have long been well on its way. The cold of a winter in retreat somehow remained fiercely undiminished, casting a biting edge across what was supposed to be a warming spring. The snow had secretly begun falling under the cover of a night now lifting, leaving a world elated by spring’s flowers laying helplessly encased in winter’s white. It was as if the coming of spring was a promise disappointed; a hope fallen prey to a winter that spring was supposed to be advancing against. That days tenderly warmed at the edges with hints of green breathing new life into winter’s impossible cold were a hope ripped away. Sometimes we let circumstances of the moment create our expectations of the future. We altogether lose the vision of being able to see beyond what besets us at the moment. What we see is the ‘what is’ that our minds have interpreted as ‘what will be.’ And we throw the ‘what could be’ of a future yet unwritten into the straitjacket of a ‘what is’ that has all but consumed us. The ‘now’ is projected forward and the future is subsequently cast in its unforgiving mold. We create the shackles that bind us to the present and we fashion the blindfold that keeps us from seeing the future as anything but the present. Our expectations of ‘what will be’ are crafted entirely by ‘what is,’ and yet it is highly likely that neither is correct.

I Heard a Robin Suddenly and without warning, out of snow and darkness, I heard a robin. I heard the harbinger of spring call out into the dead of winter. I heard a single song that raised itself up against the dark and the cold and the anger of a winter being forced into retreat. It sat entirely at odds with everything that made that morning, that morning, this bold song of this single bird off in the distant distance. As held against the power of the frigid morning, it seemed to be voice mocked by the morning itself. It seemed a lone prophet of spring that was ridiculed for bringing a such a song into such a morning. But it sang anyway. It sang until the sun rose. It sang the promise of something better that I could not see because I had errantly projected the ‘what is’ of a dark moment onto the ‘what could be’ of a spring already surging in my direction. This single robin was not deterred by the darkness and foreboding cold of my expectations. It sang. And that evening, it bid the cold day farewell by singing into the night of spring well on the way. Expectations It took a robin, this single harbinger of spring to remind me that the moment is just that… the moment. On the heels of any day or any event, there is a robin singing in the distance. There is the hope of something coming, of the end of the darkness and the cold, of all things always moving on to new things. I cannot allow my expectations of ‘what is’ to create some sort of construed view of a future that in and of itself will not bow to my ‘what is’. It might be dark. It might be cold. I might not see the horizon. But out on the horizon’s edge there stands a robin. There is something that is raising its song into the darkness and the cold, heralding the truth that something new has long been running in our direction. Such is the story of spring, and better yet, such is the promise of God’s redemptive plan. Something new is coming and the darkness of our expectations cannot stop it. Its existence is undeniable and its arrival is inevitable. So, you might take a moment, step into a darkness that is cowering before the light of a new day, pull your coat tight against a cold that is bowing in sure retreat, raise an ear and listen for a robin.

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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 Master’s 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 COFFEE POLICE By Ken Barnes

“Suddenly, their eyes were opened, and they recognized him. And at that moment he disappeared!” (Luke 24:31 NLT) They looked at me like I was from the Moon. Have you ever tried to communicate something to a child, student, or even an adult, and you get that blank look? The expression which said, what language are you speaking? God’s truths are not always meant to be understood when they are spoken. I was a public-school teacher. I had a third-period study hall where I would brew a cup of coffee to enjoy while the students studied. The students would often comment on how they loved the aroma of the brewing coffee. One day we got a memorandum from the school Principal. The memo stated that personal coffeemakers are not permitted in the classroom due to safety and cost issues. I, maybe a little grudgingly, complied with the request. Shortly afterward, a student came into the room and commented, “Mr. Barnes, why did you stop making coffee?” My reply was, “the coffee police got me.” I went on to explain the memo from our principal. The student quickly responded, “That’s OK, Mr. Barnes. We won’t tell.

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I knew that I had a teachable moment. I waited until the rest of the class arrived and then initiated a discussion about the absent coffeemaker. I told students that it was not about getting caught; it was about doing the right thing. Yes, our principal would probably never come to my classroom to check for contraband, but I would know that I had done the wrong thing. The students looked at me like I was from the backside of the moon. The expressions on their faces spoke volumes. If you don’t get caught, what is the difference? I then asked them a question that further puzzled them. If I am not willing to follow the rules that our principal gives to me, why should you be expected to adhere to my classroom guidelines? At this point, I got that blank stare that communicated; what is he trying to say? I knew that I was not getting any further with these students at this time and date. One day in the future, I believe, some of these students will find themselves in a situation that involves submission and authority and doing the right thing. God will upload this incident from study hall out of their spiritual memory band.

A light will come on in their minds, and they will say, “That is what old Mr. Barnes meant that day.” Information does not change us, but revelation does. It opens our spiritual eyes to comprehend revealed truth. God waits for his teachable moment when our hearts are ready, and the Holy Spirit quickens the information we already have. Before his death, many things the Lord told his disciples were only made known to them in their fullness after his resurrection. Being our scriptural reference, a case in point revealed to them on the road to Emmaus. In Luke 24:32 (NLT), the disciples said, “Didn’t our hearts burn within us as he talked with us on the road and explained the Scriptures to us?” The Word of God always accomplishes its purpose (Isaiah 55: 11), head knowledge becoming heart revelation. Be encouraged, dear parents, teachers, or just concerned friends; in due season, you will see the fruit of your efforts. One day, the students in my story may realize what F.B. Meyer once said is true, “Do right because it is right to do right.”

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Certified ICF ACC Life-Coach | COACH Model Trainer Head2Heart Onward Coaching Ministries “Helping you live aligned to your God-given design for greatest Gospel impact” www.head2heartonward.com

LIVING ALIGNED TO YOUR DESIGN: GIVING GOD CENTER-STAGE By Tami Thorsen Are you sometimes more concerned about what others think or say about you than what Scripture says is true of you?

Do you know what that means?

Watch out! Our enemy, the Design Crusher, desires to TRAP US into the bondage of performance, placing ourselves at center-stage!

Instead, He takes center stage and promises to do ALL the performances… for His Glory and for our satisfying delight!

This is a trap we have all fallen into whenever we allow our thoughts and actions to be caught up in the “game” of convincing others we’re DOing the right things and we’ve got it all together.

Here’s what transpires when we live our lives with Christ at “Center-Stage”:

Our energy is then driven by fear and pride, which exhausts our mind, body, and spirit because we are exerting our God-given energies in the pursuit of going nowhere but deeper into the mire of life-sapping bondage! Most likely you have even personally experienced and/ or heard it preached how this life-depleting trap gnaws at our inner being and suffocates the Abundant Life and Freedom our personal Designer longs to have flowing through us! (Romans 7:24-8:11) Perhaps you have even read in 2 Peter 1:3-11 how God promises His Divine power is available to set us free from the empty, lonely, futile rut of proving our self-sufficiency. His offer is too good to be true. His offer is so simple it makes us skeptically look for the “fine print,” “the catch.” Here is the crux of His offer: He offers Himself and His Power to live in and through us, “free of charge,” so the only way to receive Him is with “empty-hands,” nothing to prove. Ever. Coming to Him with nothing but empty hands open to receive is the only way He frees us from the “death trap” and be empowered by Him to live authentically, from the inside out!

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No more exhausting, personal performances! Whew!

God opens with the Ultimate Display of His Love & Grace. He does not hold back by saving the best for last or by waiting until we think we are ready. (Romans 5:8) He invites us to personally receive for FREE what cost Him dearly: His Son, who willingly did for us what we could never ever do… pay the price to attend the unlimited concert of His Grace! (John 3:16-18)

The unlimited concert of His Grace is all about a personal, loving relationship with Him: an ongoing, cooperative journey where God alone, at center-stage, is the Star Performer but at the same time, invites our personal participation! (Ephesians 1:3-23) Come. Join me in attending this concert. It’s free: The “Music and Light-Show” begin… God’s Divine drumbeat awakens our hearts and minds to align to His perfect rhythm. Then, the curtain is pulled back so we can catch a glimpse… just a step or two… of the journey: the pathway of heart transformation!

We scream with the delight of anticipation for more revelation! Our eyes are totally fixed on Him, The Star Performer, so we don’t miss out on all He’s going to do!

We sense we are truly not alone. We lean into the “Inward Bzzz” and walk onward into the day: our schedules, our conversations, our relationships, our responsibilities.

Then all goes dark. Quiet. But we don’t fret; instead, we are eager and wide-eyed for what we trust will unfold: “the accompaniment” of His guidance, placing our hope in believing God, the Star of the Show, has perfectly prepared every upcoming event and will surely lead us onward every step of the way, come what may.

“He will guide you into all truth…” (John 16:13)

Then, blasts of fire light up the room! Loud, thunderous sound of song fills our ears. Our faces are lit with awe, and we uninhibitedly raise our hands and scream, “Bring it on!” Almost in tandem with our response, He begins a melody that penetrates like a laser to our hearts. The song He sings over us completely blows our mind as we experience a power unlike none other. This laser-pointed stanza touches our heart, and we sense, for the first time, a lightness, unashamed freedom, to LIVE from our core, our BEing. And then, the music fades, the crowds disperse, the curtains are closed, and we are, what seems, left alone, staring blankly at what had been so dazzling, bright, and beautiful.

In a state of stun, we awkwardly shift our stance from anticipation to confusion. This isn’t how it’s supposed to go. This doesn’t make sense. This isn’t what I “paid for.” Then, as if a sound-amp was turned on, an “Inward Bzzz” is sensed in our being, but not totally understood. It seems to bring comfort but at the same time stirs up questions, doubt, fear. The “Inward Bzzz” continues, like the ringing of the ears experienced after a hefty concert. We are somehow impressed to move out of the concert hall to the busy street outside. The “Inward Bzzz” continues steadfast. “I will never leave you, nor forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5)

We come to grips that we are no longer attending the concert. “You will be a witness to all people of what you have seen and heard.” (Acts 22:15 NIV) We realize now that the concert was the Divine inner awakening, enabling us to live a whole new life alongside Christ who remains at Center-Stage! “You will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father.” (John 14:12 NIV) So, with supreme care, sovereign wisdom, and perfect love, He works alongside our cooperation, supernaturally enabling, motivating, and supporting us in LIVING OUT from our Sovereignly designed core, enabled by Him to live further aligned to our inner God-given design… uninhibitedly! (2 Peter 1:3-11)

And this whole new life He has freely given us, He says, “… becomes a fresh, bubbling spring within them, giving them eternal life.” (John 4:14 NLT) So what? So, we need to be honest with ourselves and prayerfully consider if we have been caught in “The Trap” of being more concerned about what others and society think or say about us than what Scripture says is true of us. So, my dear friend and fellow “concert-goer,” with the “Inward Bzzz” of His Spirit, let Him guide you into all truth and empower you to move into what He reveals by your trusting obedience. Lean into what He is revealing and take the next step… trusting the love of your Savior and the “Inward Bzzz” of His Spirit who promises to never leave you nor forsake you. “If people can’t see what God is doing, they stumble all over themselves. But when they attend to what He reveals, they are most blessed.” (Proverbs 29:18 MSG)

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THE MOST FRUITFUL FIELDS By Esther M. Bandy

The sower went forth to sow for the harvest. The field was the heart, and the seed was the Word. The sower worked daily amongst thorns and stones Beneath the hot sun and attacked by wild birds. He sowed, and he watched, and he waited for the harvest. He wanted to bring precious souls to the Lord. Then weakened and weary, he knew he must find rest. He sat at the feet of the master and heard, “Please take my Word to the hearts of the children. How can they believe if they still haven’t heard? The most fruitful fields have long been neglected. You’ll find them waiting all over the world.” Adults are so prideful. Most children are humble. Adults have religion. Most children seek God. Adults often choose to stay on sin’s pathway, While children more willingly turn to the Lord. “Please take my Word to the hearts of the children. How can they believe if they still haven’t heard? The most fruitful fields have long been neglected. You’ll find them waiting all over the world.” The sower considered the words of the Master. Then, looking, he saw fields he’d not seen before. Though little in size, they were quite large in number. And now that he saw them, he saw more and more. “Please take my Word to the hearts of the children. How can they believe if they still haven’t heard? The most fruitful fields have long been neglected. You’ll find them waiting all over the world.”

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“At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, 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. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me.” (Matthew 18:1-5 KJV) “And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works. (2 Timothy 3:15-17 KJV)

When Esther Bandy was five, a neighbor taught a Good News Club. She head the gospel there, and she received the Lord Jesus Christ as her Savior. That was the most important day in her life. She later worked as a nurse, a missionary, a director with Child Evangelism Fellowship, and a Spanish teacher at a Christian school. Now, she’s an author. She has been published in two anthologies; Treasures of a Woman’s Heart and Triumph from Tragedy. Her debut middle grade novel, Under the Tangerine Tree, was published in 2022. “Don’t Ask Why, Ask What” was previously published in “Triumph from Tragedy”. esthermbandy.com https://www.facebook.com/EstherMBandy @EstherMBandy

Click on book cover to purchase from Amazon.

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Sparrows in the Garage

By Craig D. Lounsbrough, M. Div., LPC An unknown author wrote, “Real treasure lies not in what that can be seen, but what cannot be seen.” We possess this strangely cockeyed perception that we must be able to see something in order to treasure it. More than that, we think that we have to be able to somehow hold it in our hands. And then, in far too many cases, we think we have to be able to own in order to treasure it. But we rarely consider that we can treasure what we can’t see. In fact, it may well be that to treasure something in a truly treasured manner, it must be entirely elusive; it must be something that we can’t see, that we can’t hold and that we can’t own. When we possess something, the fact that we can possess it diminishes its worth. Being unable to possess something suggests that it has a value beyond us, or beyond anyone else for that matter. Real treasures are elusive because if they’re not, they don’t have the value inherent within them to genuinely be categorized as treasures.

Sparrows and a Clapboard Garage Every spring, the sparrows came back to the old garage; something like coming back to a comfy old friend. Upon their return, their boundless energy and contagious enthusiasm seemed wildly intoxicating; vibrant, vibrating, and filled with all the energy of spring. I often wondered if they had spent the cold, gray months of winter in a nearly uncontrollable anticipation of greeting their old friend once winter had rolled off the horizon of spring. 52 | M AG A Z I N E N A M E PAGE 3 52

Sometimes in life, there seems to be a subtle yet wonderfully warm camaraderie of sorts that develops between things you’d never think would or could be connected like that. That seemed to explain the quiet, entirely unspoken kind of relationship that existed between the old garage and the sparrows. They seemed like long seasoned friends that didn’t need to say much because the bond that they shared spoke more than words ever could. The old clapboard garage and the house sparrows were each warmed, gently magnified, and beautifully enhanced by the other. Each was a treasure embraced as a treasure. The sparrows would glide up between the heavy wooden doors and slip by the sturdy steel tracks that they ran on; seemingly nestling into the garage’s soft, clapboard embrace. Every spring, the sparrows would settle in and nest right above the heavy wooden doors, tucked just inside, at the thin edge of the garage attic. There was too much love and warmth in the old garage, so there were usually two or three nests tucked above the wooden doors. You could see the sparrows incessantly coming and going, but you couldn’t see what they were doing. They were tireless; transporting bits of straw and brown grasses into the garage; building a place to birth the treasures of the next generation. Within moments, they would poke out elated heads and then burst into flight with empty beaks. In no time, they would return with more strands of grass, or bits of weed, or cottony fibers, or discarded pieces of string … over and over.

Within weeks, the sound of new life could be heard coming from above the old, wooden doors. Their chirps and peeps would be shushed when anyone approached; mothers teaching their little ones that life is a treasure, but it can also be filled with danger. These little, hidden treasures would become ever louder as they grew, strengthened, and eventually sought the independence of flight. Before the close of spring, they would be launched in a gangly kind of flight. They would explore the places close to the garage, bursting into uncoordinated flight but never wandering too far away. Life called them out ever further from the clapboard garage until they were gone in summer’s embrace.

Little Treasures

By Craig D. Lounsbrough, M. Div., LPC

Treasures - Unobtrusive Treasures are hidden away in quiet places. They speak in soft tones and often become silenced as we approach. They don’t beg to be found but embrace us if we do happen to find them. They are the product of completely ordinary circumstances unfolding in wonderfully extraordinary ways. They are found hidden in the nooks and crannies of our existence; all around us if we quit allowing our attention to be captivated by that which is noisy and listen for that which is quiet and still.

The Product of Unexpected and Loving Camaraderie

Always Creating and Never Preserving Treasures are not stagnant. They’re not to be preserved as in the preserving they will most certainly wither and they will perish. Real treasures begat other treasures. Real treasures are designed to perpetuate other treasures. Sometimes the perpetuation involves the replication of the original treasure, and sometimes the replication is something entirely different but just as wonderful. Treasures are ingenuously and deliberately crafted to enrich the world. If one thing is for certain, they are not designed to be encased in the lifeless museums of our making, or the vaults we create to keep them to ourselves. It’s in their multiplication that the cold of life’s winters are forced off the edge of the calendar.

Sown to the World It’s our natural inclination to preserve treasures; to corral them and box them and seal them tight. We assume that unless they’re preserved, they’ll be lost, which is entirely contradictory. In fact, they are designed to be launched and thrown out to the horizons of each of our lives regardless of whatever the season is that we might be in. Authentic treasures permeate our world; they gain wings of their own and they disburse so that they might reproduce in other places and in other lives. The stuff of treasure is irrepressibly infectious and prudently wild; intent on enrichment whenever and wherever it can. We must work against our own inclinations and toss treasures out to the world around us. It would be tremendously wise to rethink the concept of treasure in your own life. What you may be holding onto may not be treasure at all. In fact, if you’re “holding” onto it, it’s not.

Treasures are a product of treasures. Real treasure is the product of lives shared, experiences intermingled, roads merged into single lanes, sacrifices jointly experienced, the soulful laughter of two hearts in beat with each other, and lives expended in unity. Treasures are the step-child of lives lived out in shared experiences that dramatically multiply both the experience and persons in a manner geometrically beyond anything the persons could hope to experience alone. Treasures rise out of the relationship of people who are intimately woven together by the threads of time and the needle of experience.

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YOU ARE MY LORD By Esther M. Bandy

You are my Lord, and you give me strength from your Word. You are all I need every day, and I know you’ll never go away from me. You are my king. Only you can make my heart sing. All I have and all that I am, you created all, for you. Only you can make my lips proclaim the wonders of your story. Only you can teach my heart the praises of your glory.

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not anything made that was made.” (John 1:1-3 KJV)

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The Missing Peace By Esther Bandy

Life is the puzzle I live in. You were the missing peace. Satan had chained my soul to sin. Your blood is my release. You are my Savior, oh my Lord, the Son of God, you are the Word. You are the light. You are the door. I long to praise and love You more. Sing ye praises to the Lord. Worship Him in one accord. Sing ye praises, sing ye praises, sing ye praises to the Lord.

“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” (John 14:27 KJV)

Click on book cover to purchase from Amazon.

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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

A Legacy of Forgiveness By Chrystal Gilkey

“I’m glad Kai isn’t here today, Mrs. Gilkey. I will never forgive him for saying mean things to me yesterday.” Adam balled his hands into fists and glared at me as the rest of his class lined up to go to activity. It was no secret that the two boys had an altercation on the playground the day before. “Adam, I know you are still angry with Kai, but it’s not good for you to hold on to all that anger towards him. You need to forgive him.” “But he was such a jerk. How can I just let that go? How can I forgive him?” I’ll never forget that conversation at school. Adam questioned something that even grown adults struggle with. How can we truly forgive those that have wronged us? In 2 Corinthians 2:10-11, Paul testified how he forgave in the person of Christ. We receive the power to forgive when we put on Christ—when we are acting with His mindset and His heart. “To whom ye forgive any thing, I forgive also: for if I forgave any thing, to whom I forgave it, for your sakes forgave I it in the person of Christ; lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices.” (KJV)

Paul also gives a warning to the Christian. When we hold a grudge or are unable to forgive, we are giving Satan an advantage over us. Satan doesn’t want us to be an effective witness for God. We have to look past our hurt and pain at the bigger picture. We are in a spiritual battle. Satan can and will disable the child of God physically and spiritually with the weapon of unforgiveness. When I think of forgiveness, I can’t help but think of the amazing story of Steve Saint. His father, missionary Nate Saint, was killed by the Aucas tribesmen in Ecuador. I can’t imagine it was easy for Steve to return and minister to the people that killed his father. However, Christ not only gave him the power to forgive them; but also the very man that thrust the spear into his father’s body. Because he could forgive, many of the Aucas tribe were saved. His testimony from book to the movie has influenced the lives of millions of people.

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Click on book cover to purchase book. Christ gave Steve the power to forgive, but Steve also had something else guiding him in forgiveness. Steve had a pattern of forgiveness drawn by his parents for him to trace in his own life. “After my dad and the other men died, my mom continued praying for the people who killed them. By the time I met them, I wasn’t thinking of them as the people who killed my father; I was thinking of them as being the most special people in the world … I had a heritage of forgiveness from my parents …” 1 What an amazing legacy to leave behind to those we love! Lord, help me leave a legacy of love and forgiveness to my children. Don’t let me leave them with the dry remnants of bitterness and regret.

Mark I. Pinsky, Faith and Forgiveness, Orlando Sentinel, January 2006, Dailypress.com

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Lynn Story Downham is a fourth generation artist who returned to North Carolina in 2014 after twenty-six years on the Florida panhandle. Her seventh family tree commission was for a “family tree for Jesus.” Twenty years later she is a born-again believer with a best-selling print, a beautiful family and a passion for sharing Christ through her art. Find out more on Facebook by looking up “Lynn Story Downham’s Art” or “Lynn Downham Jesus Tree.”

T H E B AT T L E I S H I S By Lynn Downham

“I’m gonna see a victory! I’m gonna see a victory! For the battle belongs to you, Lord!” These lyrics are running through and through my head as we sang them as a choir and congregation yesterday and I can’t get them out of my head now. Funny, because it is not my favorite song because we’ve sung this one so much. Apologies to the writer. But today, it is perfect. A dear friend is in an OR right now, in surgery, and there are many praying for him and I am reminded through these repeated lyrics that our battles ARE the Lord’s. The battles against principalities and powers could never be won in our own power, but only our mighty Lord’s.

If you will recall in my last writing, I asked you to hold me accountable for staying about the Lord’s business with the painting of the Tree of Life for Israel. I have done so and will continue to update you because this helps me not to get distracted from His business again. The trials and things that come against me to distract me from His business are from our enemy and His and I know that as I release them to Him to deal with them, the Lord will fight my battles for me. Praise God! What a wonderful feeling to know that there is a mighty God, yea the King of Kings and Lord of Lords is fighting MY battles for ME. That is just astonishing. If you have been walking with Him for long enough, though, you will remember all the times He has just “shown up” and fixed things right before your eyes. His ways are not our ways, and His fixes rarely look like how we thought He might fix it, but His plans are often far beyond our understanding. Whatever you are facing, whatever I am facing, let us hold close to the fact that Jesus is interceding for us with the Father. He is PRAYING for us and He hears our prayers. Remember to take all your cares to Him, release them at the foot of the cross, and thank Him for fighting your battles! I love you all, Lynn

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Oh, how we have grown! God continues to take our magazine to places beyond our reach. We are now read in over 100 countries. If you like to write and want to share the Good News with our readers, please prayerfully consider submitting an article, poem, or story about your act of service. (community activity, mission trip, or a personal act of service)

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CHRONIC ILLNESS AND JESUS

By Paula Short

Do you have a chronic illness? Or do you know someone who does? I have several invisible chronic illnesses that play a significant part in my functioning of day-to-day living.

Sometimes friends or family may say things that are unhelpful or hurtful. Sometimes they are just trying to help without realizing that their comments or statements are unhelpful or hurtful.

A chronic illness is a condition that lasts for a long time, keeps coming back, or continues to happen. Often Continuing indefinitely; perpetual; and constant. Some have no cure. When you add in the invisible factor, it becomes frustrating both to our loved ones and us.

Unhelpful and hurtful comments and statements include:

An invisible illness doesn’t affect your outward appearance, but it affects how your body functions and feels. Some invisible chronic illnesses include but are not limited to trigeminal neuralgia, fibromyalgia, migraines, and anxiety. Also, depression, arthritis, diabetes, chronic fatigue syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome, chronic pain, scleroderma, Lupus, osteoarthritis. And the list goes on. What symptoms do you or a loved one have? Some may have mobility problems, fatigue, pain, digestive issues, incontinence, sleep disturbances, cognitive and mood issues. Also, brain fog, anxiety, depression, physical limitations. And this list goes on too.

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• But you don’t look sick. - Not everyone looks like what’s happening to them. • Everyone gets tired. - Indeed they do, but there is a difference between healthy and unhealthy tired. • You’re just having a bad day. • You’ll feel better if you exercise or lose weight. Yes, we probably would. But it’s complicated with mobility and balance issues. • I know someone who has (insert illness here), and they’re doing great. • Have you tried? - Chances are, we’ve tried a lot of things. • It’s all in your head. - Yes, some things are like trigeminal neuralgia, migraines, etc. • You need to get out more. - Again, that’s easier said than done for people who have mobility, balance, or panic issues. • It could be worse. - Yes, it could. • I know how it feels. - Unless you know exactly how someone feels, don’t say it.

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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/

So, where does Jesus come in? While I was suffering from depression, mourning my broken body, I had had enough. This couldn’t be all there was for me, anxiety, depression, and grieving my past person. I had been in therapy to help me cope with, learn, and get through grieving the past me, the one without chronic illnesses. My therapist said something that stuck with me. She said, “you are not that past person; you’re today’s person.” She said today’s person has disabilities.

Jesus is our primary example. He went through tremendous suffering, but it wasn’t without purpose. He provided a way to salvation for us and knew that he’d one day be glorified. Friend, whatever the case, whether a chronic or debilitating condition, we receive something far more significant. We receive God’s grace, humility, more robust character, and ability to empathize with others. I think, at times, we must share in Christ’s suffering.

If you are someone with a chronic illness, consider that others may not know what to say to you. More I was stunned that such a simple statement held such than not, they are trying to be helpful. If something they say is unhelpful or hurtful, please tell them a profound Ah-Ha moment for me. I began to have gently. a great desire to draw near to God than I had ever been. Seeking him in the everyday and finding his If you know someone with a chronic illness, please beauty within my ashes. be mindful of your words. Don’t be afraid to ask John 16:33 unmistakably tells us that we will have the person about their condition and how it affects troubles. But not to fret because Jesus has overcome them. Ask how you can help; learn about their illness. Sometimes just a listening ear is all that is needed. the world. “Three times, I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” (2 Corinthians 12:8-9 NIV) M AG A Z I N E N A M E &O R U R L

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Let Him Breathe Through You By Laurie Glass

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.

Draw close, feel His breath, savor His presence, inhale His peace, embrace the beauty on your walk together. From this place, surrender, and let Holiness take its place in your heart, allowing the Spirit to express His voice through your lips, lead your steps on the trail of life, leaving others enriched along the way. Let Him breathe through you and softly land on others, revealing Himself, showing them love, showering them with compassion, giving them guidance, filling them with peace. With His power working through you, leave a trail behind you that leaves those along the way feeling cherished, knowing they are valued, growing in their faith, living out their beliefs, and allowing Him to lead their lives.

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Call For Books!

It is a simple process, you send us a copy of your signed book, we read it and review it in our magazine and put the review on our website. We also post reviews on Amazon and Goodreads. We love to encourage writers, we do not charge for this service, we just request a copy of your book! If you have any questions, drop us an email to Team@FaithOnEveryCorner.com

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Five Ways to Look for Blessings During Trials By Juliana Gordon

“Trials are a blessing in disguise.”

Even now, God is providing for you.

“Look at the bright side!”

See God’s provision in other areas of your life, even if one area is really hard right now. He may even use this time to teach you what you really need. “And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19 NASB1995)

“After trials come blessings.” When we are in the moment of residing in the uncomfortable, messy, or painful space of a trial or a hard time, one of these phrases can be a common response. Sometimes it is a meaningful comment, meant to encourage us to persevere. Other times, it is given because the other person honestly doesn’t know what to say. Either way, these remarks have the potential to land as insensitive, dismissive responses to legitimate pain. But what truth lies in this way of thinking? Can we find blessings from God during trials and challenges in our lives? I don’t believe that there is a transactional nature of suffering = blessings, as in “suffer for God = get what you want.” But I do believe that blessings not only follow trials but often come during them. Here are five ways you can look for blessings from God during trials.

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Even now, God is with you. Psalm 139:11-12 (NASB1995) says, “If I say, ‘Surely the darkness will overwhelm me, And the light around me will be night,” Even the darkness is not dark to You, And the night is as bright as the day. Darkness and light are alike to You.’” There is nowhere we go that God cannot see us or be with us. Even now, God is producing endurance in you. Here we encounter James 1:2-4 NASB1995. This is one of my favorite/least favorite passages. I love these verses because it gives me hope that my trials have a purpose; I don’t like these verses when they are used by others to poke at people who are hurting, to tell them to be happy that they are going through what might be the worst time in their lives. Read these verses knowing that God has a plan for your life. “Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.”

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Even now, God keeps his promises. Sometimes we expect God to keep promises He didn’t actually make—we must be careful about that! But even in the worst, God’s promises about salvation (John 3:16), His presence (Hebrews 13:5-6), and His forgiveness (John 1:9), will be fulfilled. Maybe not in our timing or our ways, but He will keep His promises according to His plan. Even now, God loves you. The loneliness we can feel during a trial can also make it feel like God isn’t with us either. But He is, and He loves us so much! Nothing can separate us from the love of God (Romans 8:38-39.) Knowing that in this world we will have trouble (John 16:33), we are bound to have plenty of opportunities to practice looking for God’s blessings during hard times. We can use these steps to change our hearts and persevere through difficulties. A prayer for finding blessings from God during trials Heavenly Father, we pray that You would remind our hearts of these truths as we encounter struggles in our lives. We pray that we would find our hope, joy, and peace in You. Thank You that Your Word is true and that we can put our faith in You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Juliana Gordon studied creative writing at California State University at Northridge. She is a pastor’s wife and a freelance writer in Southern California. She has been married to her husband for over 25 years. You can find her at www.julianagordon.com or on Instagram at @julianagordonwriter.

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Faith On Every Corner

C O N TA C T U S . . .

Publisher & Editor in Chief: Karen Ruhl Managing Editor Craig Ruhl Photography: Karen Ruhl (unless otherwise credited) Staff Writers: Craig Ruhl Karen Ruhl

Submit Articles For Consideration to: Team@faithoneverycorner.com Phone: 828-305-8571 www.FaithOnEveryCorner.com

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Disclaimer and Copyright Notification The Information contained in the published works of Faith On Every Corner has been received from sources we believe to be reliable. However, neither Faith On Every Corner nor its authors, writers, editors, or publishers can guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any information published. Faith On Every Corner, its authors, editors, and publishers are not responsible for any errors or omissions in our published works. The opinions and theology expressed by contributing writers are their own and not necessarily that of Faith On Every Corner, LLC., its owners or staff. All Faith On Every Corner, LLC publications, websites, blogs, and other media are copyrighted. All rights are reserved. Contents published in Faith On Every Corner Magazine may be reproduced, shared, copied, or transmitted as long as the published work is unaltered and contains proper attribution to Faith On Every Corner. Contributing writers to Faith On Every Corner retain full rights to their contributed content. Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007, 2013 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (NIV) are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version ®, NIV ®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. www.zondervan.com. The “NIV” and “New International Version” are trademarks registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Biblica, Inc. ™ Scripture quotations are from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version ® (ESV ®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (NKJV) taken from the New King James Version ® (NKJV ®). Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission, all rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (CSB) taken from The Christian Standard Bible. Copyright © 2017 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Christian Standard Bible®, and CSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers, all rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (KJV) taken from The King James Bible, public domain.

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Faith On Every Corner - March 2022

Articles inside

Quiet Time by John Alexander

March Prayer by Tynea Lewis

New Beginnings by Cindy Oriol

Faith On Every Corner - March 2022

Five Ways to Look for Blessings During Trials by Juliana Gordon

Let Him Breathe Through You by Laurie Glass

Chronic Illness and Jesus by Paula Short

The Battle Is His by Lynn Downham

A Legacy of Forgiveness by Chrystal Gilkey

The Missing Peace by Esther Bandy

You Are My Lord by Esther M. Bandy

Sparrows in the Garage / Little Treasures by Craig D. Lounsbrough M.Div., LPC

The Most Fruitful Fields by Esther M. Bandy

Living Aligned To Your Design: Giving God Center-Stage by Tami Thorsen

The Coffee Police by Ken Barnes

I Heard a Robin - Hope in the Dark by Craig D. Lounsbrough, M.Div, LPC

A Change Of Scenery by Shara Bueler-Repka

Road Trippin' March Throwback by karen Ruhl

Trees by Karen Ruhl

Don't Be Troubled by Dave Evans

Faith On Every Corner - March 2022

Abundance and Poverty by Dave Evans

What Does St. Patrick’s Day Mean To Me? by Sharon K. Connell ... pages

Faith On Every Corner - Book Shelf

Cleaning Out The Cistern by Peter Caligiuri

The Lord’s Healing Power by Brenda McDaniel

I’ll Fly Away by Peter Caligiuri

Be Still by Gina Sewell

Higher Thoughts, Higher Ways by Andrea Marino

Forgiveness After Someone Has Died by Melissa Henderson

How Long? by Dr. Kathleen Oden

Our Forever Shepherd by Nicole Byrum

Morning Coffee by Michael E. Wells

Godly Lessons From St. Patrick by Yvonne Morgan