October 2021 Issue
“While the earth remains, seedtime and harvest, Cold and heat, winter and summer, and day and night shall not cease.” Genesis 8:22 NKJV
Visit Our Website at www.FaithOnEveryCorner.com for previous issues of our magazine.
COVER PHOTO BY DOUG HOOVER I live in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania with my wife. I am a project manager for a non-profit that providesvocational training and employment opportunities for Lancaster County adults with developmental disabilities. Photography is my passion and I never miss an opportunity to take photographs.
You can find Doug’s work at: Doug Hoover Art / FineArtAmerica.com) Doug Hoover / Facebook
INSIDE COVER
NOTE FROM THE EDITOR Note from the Editor – October 2021 I have to admit that we are now in one of my favorite times of the year. Spring is second to this season. The colors of fall are always dazzling as the flowers and trees bid us farewell for a few months. The Bible tells us, “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.” Fall is a time for rest, the plants and trees seem to know more than we do. they rest all winter and then bloom in full splendor in the Spring.
Karen
and C
raig R
uhl
Fall at the Ruhl house usually means road trips! School is in, it is off season, and we can travel and get photos of this beautiful time of year. We love the stories our writer’s send in for our October edition. We have a theme, but we really tell our writers to pray and listen to what God wants to share with our readers. The theme is Fall Into Faith. Craig and I hope that you have received Christ Jesus in your life. If you have any questions about giving your life to Christ, please drop us an email. We want you to know that we pray for our writers, readers, family, and friends throughout the day. If you need prayer, drop us a note. My Fall advice is to get out on the weekends and take a drive. Find a place where the trees are turning and enjoy watching God’s masterpieces in action. God bless you all. Much love, Karen Ruhl Team@FaithOnEveryCorner.com
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Table of Contents
COVER PHOTOGRAPHER: Doug Hoover ... Cover & Inside Cover October Prayer by Tynea Lewis ... page 21 Fall and 3 Poems ... by John Alexander ... page 6-7 Apple Picking and Chili Cookoff ... by Melissa Henderson ... page 8-9 In God We Trust ... Andrea Marino ... page 10-11 Fall In Love With Faith ... by Dr. Kathleen Oden ... page 12-13 All Things Hold Together ... by Michael E. Wells ... page 14-15 Loving The Law ... by Nicole Byrum ... page 16-17 Mission Of Faith ... by Doug Hoover ... page 18-19 Spiritual Guidance ... by Gina Sewell ... page 20 October Prayer ... by Tynea Lewis ... page 21 Riddles Of Life and God’s Two Poems ... by Dave Evans ... page 22-23 The Original Fact Checker ... by Craig Ruhl ... page 24-25 Seasons ... by Yvonne M. Morgan ... page 26-27 Dear Carl ... by Anna Friend ... page 28-29 Fall Into Faith ... by Karen Ruhl ... page 30 Shattered Dreams ... by Gini Walker ... page 31 Devotion To God ... by Rocket Barber ... page 32-33 Road Trippin’ - Fancy Gap, VA and Lake Lure, NC ...by Karen Ruhl ... Page 34-37
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Faith And Autumn Poems ... by Chad Thieman ... page 38-39 Walking By Faith ... by Maureen Kambarami ... page 40-41 Bookshelf ... Book Reviews ... page 42-45 Me And You ... by Mike Buchanan ... page 46-47 Circle Of Trust ... By Jeff Foster... page 48-49 Living Your Faith ... By Brenda McDaniel ... page 50 Be Still ... by Karen Ruhl ... page 52 Faith Poem ... by Dr. Irene Surya ... page 53 Fall Into Faith ... by Sharon K. Connell ... page 54-55 Harvest Time ... by Cindy Oriol ... page 56-57 Blessed Regardless Of The Outcome ... by Scott Dunn ... page 58-59 The Thing About Weeds ... by Shara Bueler-Repka ... page 60-61 I Was There ... By Jean Allord ... page 62 Devoted To God ... by Karen Ruhl ... page 63
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Poems by John Alexander
Autumn Autumn reminds me that winter is near. It’s time to prepare as some winters are long, Make sure that my faith is engaged and in gear. Sometimes there’s a winter that’s bitter and strong.
John Alexander lives in Frisco, Texas with his beautiful wife and his Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
Fall
By John Alexander I’m grateful for fall, a season of change, a reminder of the winter yet to come. Just as in the seasons, continually in change, life also is full of change. If you find yourself in the midst of a winter storm in your life, I pray you have faith to stay strong and weather the storm. If you find yourself in between the storms of life, count your blessings, and use it as a time to build your faith for the winters that we all know lie ahead in one form or another. Whether mild or harsh, life-altering or quiet, I pray you are blessed with the faith to endure whatever comes your way and find joy even in the midst of the storms.
Like squirrels who gather their food in the fall, I know that the winter will blast me once more. Surviving past winters will help me stand tall. Some winters are brutal and hard to ignore. Troubles like winters are just part of life. I pray that I’m ready, prepared when they come. I’m grateful for time to prepare for the strife. Lord, give me the strength that I’m not overcome. Lord, give me the courage and the faith to endure, To trust in Your love, You are faithful and pure.
As in past issues, it is my joy to share a few rhymes relating this month to fall and faith, praying that they are a blessing to you as you read them. Blessings, John QuietTimeRhymes.com
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Fall Leaves
The Difficult Days
As leaves begin to show their age, Take on a slightly different hue, We know they’ve reached a different stage, No longer young, bright green, and new.
Some days are easy, a walk in the park, While others are difficult, dreary, and dark. Life sometimes brings pressure; I’m put to the test. I trust in the Lord and I strive for my best.
We know they’ll usher in the fall, Once more with brilliant colors glow, Leave one more summer to recall, Another winter yet to know.
Integrity, honesty, always my goal, An integral part of what makes up my whole. Endurance and patience are often required
I’m grateful for another year, You’ve given me a life this long. I know the fall of life is here. I pray my faith in You stays strong.
To keep moving forward though weary and tired.
Lord, let Your colors shine through me, Reflect Your light, help others see.
Tomorrow’s a new day. The sun will still rise,
I trust God to guide me to help me stay strong, To overcome hardship no matter how long.
And once more, the darkness will flee from the skies. The season is changing, cool breezes return. The colors are brilliant as all the leaves turn. I pray that my autumn of life has a glow, Reflections of Jesus, through me, may He show.
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Apple Picking and Chili Cookoff By Melissa Henderson The change of season can bring many exciting activities. Apple picking and chili cookoff time are two of my favorite events. When we lived in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, our church enjoyed having a “chili cookoff” each fall. Members and visitors prepared their delicious chili recipes, homemade cornbread, and scrumptious desserts. These items were packed up at home and taken to a local church camp where we shared food, fellowship, Bible study, and fun. There was chili for all taste buds. Hot and spicy, not so hot and spicy, mild, and even chili with a bit of sweetness. The aroma of the delicious food met each person as they entered the door to the main house. This was where the kitchen was located so we could warm the food. There were tables and chairs in the dining area, plaques with Scripture adorning the walls, and an area prepared for desserts. Folks arrived holding warm dishes covered with a cloth or potholder. As each person walked into the building, scents of delicious food beckoned everyone to gather, give thanks, and prepare to eat. After the meal was finished and the kitchen and eating area cleaned, there was time for outside games and a campfire in the evening. During this special time of gathering, prayers and Scripture were shared. A few hymns were sung as the sun lowered. With our bellies full and our spirits renewed, the evening concluded. Our faith and love for the Lord was shared with friends, family, and visitors.
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Another wonderful activity in the fall was going to the mountains to go apple picking. There were school field trips to the apple orchard every fall. As temperatures cooled, the leaves began changing colors from green to bright red, orange, gold, and yellow. Collecting leaves was always a favorite pastime. Whether accompanying our son on a class field trip to the apple orchard or visiting the local orchard with family, there was always joy in picking the yellow and red apples and filling our basket with the best fruit we could find. Some apples were on the ground while others were attached to the tree. We were cautious when reaching for the apples. Bees, wasps, and snakes could be found in the grass and trees. Walking between the rows of mature trees, we marveled at the scent of apples. With baskets full, we returned to the main shop to enjoy apple cider and apple butter. I am glad to buy apples from the store. But there is something very special about walking in the apple orchard, inhaling the mountain air, and listening to the sounds of the birds singing. Apple picking brought great joy to my family. Whether it was sharing time with family or sharing time with friends, choosing the best apple, and sometimes taking a quick bite to taste the sweetness, we were blessed by the experience.
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
The chili cookoff in the fall also provided a way to create special memories. Food, fellowship, fun, and time for Bible study renewed our minds and bodies. When I think of fall, I am thankful to recall times that bring a smile or two. If you have an opportunity to participate in picking apples or cooking chili for a contest, enjoy the blessings of the scents, tastes, and feelings that the season of fall brings. I love something about each season. As I write this message, rain is pouring down on the roof. Fall is coming. Temperatures will cool. Sweaters will be brought out of the drawers. Whatever the weather brings, we can rest assured that God is in control. Have you visited an apple orchard? Have you been to a chili cookoff? “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.” (Psalm 107:1 NIV)
Click on the book covers to purchase Melissa’s books. We are proud owners of both books. Karen & Craig Ruhl
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In God We Trust By Andrea Marino
It appears the church of Jesus Christ is surrounded by evil. As in every other adverse situation we face, this, too, is a test of our faith. God tells us not to lean on our own understanding but to trust in Him. At seventy-five years of age, by faith, Abraham left home and traveled to a land without knowing where he was going. Called to become a great nation, Abraham and his descendants would bless all peoples of the world. (Genesis 12:1,2,3) His willingness to go demonstrates complete trust in the leadership of God. Fully convinced God is able to do what He promised, Abraham’s faith was counted to him as righteous. (Romans 4:22) The Bible is filled with accounts of Abraham’s descendants operating in faith. Believing, though they could not see, these people did as God said, enduring sacrifice and hardship because they understood a better place, a heavenly one, which they looked forward to. (Hebrews 11:15,16) Once I grasped the love and goodness of God, the wonderful things He has planned for His people, everything in the world paled in comparison. Besides, if you live long enough, you discover life, as it is now, comes with many disappointments.
Our nation and world are in dire straits over having given up faith in God. Such is the consequence of disregarding Who He is. The world has become so bad that I find myself daydreaming about the past, longing for the simplicity of the ‘good ‘ole days’ when God held a rightful place in society. I enjoy a little respite in pictures of long ago—those even before my time. Tranquil scenes from the horse and buggy era are calming to gaze at. But evil has always been around since Lucifer rebelled against the Creator. Adam and Eve passed his curse of hell and death to the world when they chose to listen to Satan rather than to God, who then banished them from the Garden of Eden. Knowing his time is running out, Satan pulls no punches. Evil now openly parades itself around. God promised to expose the hidden works of darkness because ignorance is not bliss. (Luke 12.2) It is never ignorance or bliss that enables anyone to know God’s truth, the most valuable of all earthly possessions. Eternal life in the place God calls home is priceless, worth everything we could think of having. A retreat from reality is nice, but honestly, there is nothing in the world that I should want to return to.
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Click on the photo of the book to purchase from Amazon.
Jesus urged us to fix our eyes on the riches of Heaven, not on the things of earth. He said that if we seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, all we need would be added to us. (Mathew 6:33) When Elisha, the prophet, was accused of being a spy, the Syrian king was determined to capture him. One morning, Elisha was awakened to a terrifying sight; a band of enemy marauders was surrounding him. But God granted his servant to also see a host of horses and chariots of fire sent to protect him and the people of Israel. (2 Kings 6:8-23) “You belong to God, my dear children. You have already won a victory over those people, because the Spirit who lives in you is greater than the spirit who lives in the world.” (1 John 4:4 NLT) With God, hope is never out of sight. And while we are yet in a ‘ceaseless striving against sin’, engulfed in works of darkness, we remember all the saints before us who have been in that same position and who provide illustration after illustration of enduring, victorious faith. Such a ‘great cloud of witnesses’ surrounds us. (Hebrews 12:4,1) All that is recorded in Scripture is for our benefit, “assuring us that God will also count us as righteous if we believe in Him, the One who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead.” (Romans 4:23,24 NLT) Handed over to die for our sins, Jesus was raised to life to make us right with God (Romans 4:25) Therefore, we press on and finish the race. For we are not alone; God is with us! Great is His faithfulness. It never ends. His mercies are new every morning. (Lamentations 3:22,23)
With a yearning to uncover the secret to life, Andrea embarked on a journey to discover truth. The study of Psychology proved inadequate, while the forces of darkness began to make their presence known. The Hobble, from Ai to Bethel encompasses Andrea’s personal victory over fear and bondage to the enemy. Passionate in sharing God’s Good News about Jesus, the author desires to encourage people to never lose hope. Because we all ‘hobble’ before God in need of Him. When not writing, Andrea loves spending time with her children and grandchildren, and enjoys cycling on the open roads with her husband, David.
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Fall In Love With Faith By Dr. Kathleen B. Oden The fall of the year is my favorite time of the year! I live in Houston, Texas now, but I was born in Pennsylvania where the trees are so colorfully incredible before they fall. As the summer heat begins to lower and the mornings become cooler here in Houston, I look forward to the 60s. Sitting on the porch savoring a cup of hot chai tea, enjoying the first cool fall air, while watching the sun rise over the houses and trees in my neighborhood, is something that I impatiently anticipate every year! Did you know that the cool of the morning is Jesus’ favorite time to pray? There are many Scriptures in the Bible about Jesus praying early in the morning. This is my favorite time as well. When my first love for Jesus started growing, my faith in Him grew as well. And I soon learned that it was actually a “fall into faith.” “And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed.” (Mark 1:35 KJV) You have to have faith in Jesus, to fall in love with Him. We see His faithful artistic work every year in all the colors of the trees, as fall approaches. Jesus loves colors! Everything that He made comes in different colors.
Flowers, fish, birds, butterflies, and even people all come in different colors. It is so sad that some people do not like people that are not their color. It is totally impossible to love the Lord and hate people. My life is so blessed because of the great rainbow of friends that I have come to know and love. It costs us nothing to pray for each other. However, it will cost us everything if we don’t do it! It all starts with falling in love by faith. When we “fall into faith” then our life is changed and also the lives of others. Are you including all of God’s colors on your friends list? Check your friends list (the real one) to see if it is a rainbow! Also, what about your food? Are you eating a healthy rainbow of colors? If not, then you probably are missing out on some important vitamins, minerals, and nutrition that your body needs. Make sure you have something red, yellow, orange, blue, purple, and green in your basket whenever you go shopping. Learning to eat healthily has really helped me to recognize the beauty of healthy fruits and veggies. A table looks so beautifully appetizing when it is covered with colorful all-natural foods. Presentation is everything!
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M AG A Z I N E N A M E
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
God’s Rainbow of Healthy Foods List… Dr. Kathleen B. Oden
RED -
red bell peppers, tomatoes, watermelon, strawberries, and apples
“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. (Romans 12:1 KJV) Present yourself to Jesus! Fall in love with HIM and you cannot help but to “fall into faith.”
YELLOW & ORANGE -
bananas, carrots, tangerines, sweet potatoes, and cantaloupe
GREEN -
kale, spinach, collard greens, turnip greens, mustard greens, and broccoli
PURPLE & BLUE -
grapes, eggplant, and blueberries
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Morning Coffee With Michael E. Wells Soon and Very Soon
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.
It is a flash of blinding light with a crack of deafening thunder and then silence. A small light appears in the void of darkness. I am all by myself and yet not alone. I find peace overcomes me when fear should grip me. Whispers can be heard faintly as the darkness retreats. It is a warmth of presence I feel as I’m lifted beyond this realm. Night has turned to day as I am surrounded by those who know me and somehow I know of them. As I look through the crowd, I’m amazed to see the faces of people I knew from my youth, teachers, and relatives. I even see a few friends I lost to untimely passings. It feels like a homecoming; like I’m finally where I’m supposed to be. All the years of wondering have now been realized, all the questions that were asked have now been answered and all the sacrifices that were made are now shown to have been well worth it. It is heaven! No longer words on a page, but vivid before my eyes. Words could not express nor emotions feel the awe and majesty of the experience and now one that will last days without end. I’m reminded of the voices of doubt I would hear on my journey, how I would briefly entertain them until I heard that familiar voice say, “have faith, my child.” My thoughts are suddenly turned to my new reality as a sound is heard and the crowd begins to move forward. I see in the distance a shimmering structure, massive in appearance, with a sound unlike any other. Somehow I know where I’m going and it is good. So, with joy and anticipation, I mount the steps and enter in through the arch. I hear angels cry, “Holy, Holy, Holy,” as the sound echoes in the air while countless thousands kneel before a throne. Then One arrayed in priestly robes stands to His feet and stretches forth a scarred hand, saying, “Welcome Home My Beloved!”
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All Things Hold Together
Romans To Jude
We know that in life, all things have a purpose, but some things have not yet been placed in their proper order. Many times, our lives are as chaotic and jumbled as a junk drawer in our kitchen. In life, all things have a purpose, but some are yet to have their proper place. In Colossians 1:17, the Apostle Paul tells us that in Christ all things are held together. Our lives will always be fragmented and loose unless we choose to be gathered and set in place. Many times, we cannot find the tools in life to help us when we need them. We rummage through the drawer, unable to find what we need.
The greatest works of pen and paper are the pages between Romans 1 and the close of Jude. The greatest story ever told is in the gospels, but your working relationship with God is revealed in the letters. The Bible is not a one-time novel but a daily reminder of cause and effect, calling and ministry, faith, and hope. It is not to be placed on a shelf but opened on a lap, not to be left on a table, but to be read over and over.
Jesus said, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28 NKJV) He said come and I will put you in your proper resting place. Oftentimes in the scriptures, we are told of God’s placing of us. Whether it is in the shadow of the Almighty or in the palm of His hand, we are safe and secure when we allow Him to pick up the pieces. All things hold together. God does all things decently and in order. We would be well advised to allow God to tie up the loose ends, to bring together in one place all our doubts, fears, and reservations of life, that we might find rest and stability, place, and order. Because in the final inventory, it matters where we have lain, what we have allowed ourselves to be associated with and been next to. There is a reason God would have us in a certain place, in a certain position, and in a certain order. Paul explained it in his letter to the Ephesians 2:22. He wrote that in Christ, we are being built up into a structure to form a fixed dwelling place of God through His Spirit. So why should we allow ourselves to be plucked from our life of scattered pursuits and jumbled priorities to be placed in our proper resting stance? It is that we may experience the greatest alignment known to mankind. It is a place where we find ourselves being held by His hand as we are given the privilege of holding His heart.
Some would say that is brainwashing but it is actually mind-renewing. Printed words on a page penetrate the heart and bring faith, hope, and love. No other literature can comfort the soul or heal the heart as can the word of God, but we must remind our spirit daily of its value. It is the seed planted that grows to yield its fruit; left alone and unattended, it dies. Paul wrote to let the word of Christ dwell in you richly. His letters are rich with His words. Romans to Jude and back again. Day in and day out, the reading of scripture with the interaction of the Holy Spirit will transform you from lonely to loved, from helpless to hopeful, from despondent to overjoyed. From the Romans Road through the revelations given to these great men of God to the encouragement of Jude to keep the faith, the Bible reveals a river of living water that never runs dry. It is the Presence of God made aware, sparked by the Holy Spirit as the soul meditates between Romans and Jude.
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LO V I N G T H E L AW
by Nicole Byrum
On January 1, 2018, I began day #1 of the “read the Bible in a year” plan. Reading the entire Bible was something I had always wanted to do, but at that point had not yet done. I decided to set it as one of my New Year goals and by the grace of God was able to maintain the discipline of daily reading. Come December 31, 2018, I had completed the reading plan. One of my biggest takeaways from that time in the Word was the recognition of God’s sovereignty and glory in all things. I remember being surprised to see how often God acted “for the sake of His name.” As I read through the Old Testament, that phrase really stood out to me! Admittedly, I struggled with maintaining interest in some books more than others, particularly when it came to the books of the law and chapters containing genealogy. The time between January 1, 2019, and December 31, 2020, was filled with continued Bible study, mainly through the daily reading / teaching section of Tabletalk Magazine. I also read numerous theological books from some of history’s greatest: Augustine, Luther, Calvin, Spurgeon, Tozer, and C. S. Lewis. I thank God for these men of faith and their ability to write so well about His Word. I’m also thankful for the wonderful Christmas gift from my parents in 2018, an ESV Reformation Study Bible. This has been an invaluable tool to aid my study of God’s Word. How I wished it had been in my possession at the beginning of 2018 as I read through the Bible that year!
On January 1, 2021, I decided I wanted to again follow my “read the Bible in a year plan” but this time with a bit of a twist. I would follow the schedule in that I would read the chapters in the assigned order, but not necessarily within the designated time frame. Instead, I have been reading a chapter or two per day (or every other day) and really taking time to read through the footnotes of my study Bible, checking the cross-references and additional footnotes. As I learn best by writing my own notes, I have kept a notebook in which I make a note or two of the main points from each chapter. While my first journey through the Bible was remarkable, this time through has been even better. One of the biggest surprises this go-around has been how much I have enjoyed Exodus and Leviticus. The giving of the law and the instruction for the Israelite people is simply incredible. Reading through the law now, I see it through the lens of God’s holiness, our depravity, and how this covenant of law demonstrates God dwelling with his people. I also know that it was only a shadow of what was to be—that a better covenant would be coming! It has been amazing to study the footnotes, gaining a better understanding of how Jesus fulfilled all of the law and became our perfect atonement.
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While there is so much more that could be expounded upon regarding those last few sentences, I wanted to return to God’s holiness. As I read the detailed instructions regarding the tabernacle construction, it drew to mind the reverence and awe with which we are to worship God. He is worthy of this type of worship because He alone is holy! Reading chapter upon chapter describing the specific offerings and sacrifices to be made on behalf of the people’s sin left me contemplating what it must have been like to be that connected to one’s own sin. To kill and sacrifice an animal as a representative of oneself is something so far removed from us because of the substitutionary sacrifice of Christ. Yet, it shows that an unclean, defiled people cannot have communion with a holy God without an atonement. Finally, all the laws regarding how we are to treat one another demonstrate God’s perfect love and justice. It truly is a beautiful revelation of who He is. While Christ has perfectly fulfilled the law, thereby becoming our righteousness, the Old Covenant law is still to be loved because it shows us the character of God. It shows us that we are sinners incapable of saving ourselves, unable to stand in God’s holy presence. However, the law also shows God’s great love and provision for His people. He has made a way for sinners such as you and me to have communion with Him. The remaining books of the Bible unfold God’s marvelous historical plan leading to the New Covenant and the City of God. I am joyfully looking forward to the next few years of continued study of God’s awesome revealed Word!
Click on book cover to purchase on Amazon.
Nicole is a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 14 years of experience in community mental health. She is the author of Remade: Living Free a book written for women in recovery from substance abuse and unhealthy relationships. Nicole also maintains a blog at nicolebyrum.com as well as a podcast, 5 Minute Word. Both focus on topics related to faith and relationships. She lives in Northwest Ohio with her husband and two children. When she’s not writing, you can find her reading, running, or cooking.
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M I S S I O N O F FA I T H
by Doug Hoover Back in 1994, a movie came out that captured a lot of viewer’s hearts. The movie’s name was Forrest Gump. One of the most famous lines from the movie was “Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you are going to get.” You go through life and each day brings a new challenge, a new trial. Sometimes there are days you wish would get done faster so you can just try to forget about it. Do you wish, don’t you wish, you knew when a storm in life is coming? If only we knew when events like being let go from a job or a medical emergency were imminent! We would have time to prepare, time to find things to prevent it from coming, but God wants us to put our faith in Him. Twenty-five years ago, I did mission work in a small village named San Narciso in Belize. Belize is a small country south of Mexico. I fell in love with this village in 1994 when I was there with a team of others. In 1996, I returned, solo, and was planning to live there for a year. I did many things while I was there; children’s ministry, youth ministry, helped a small church by preaching, visiting people, and doing other activities. I also did children’s ministry in another village.
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That August, I began experiencing severe stomach pain. I continued to do ministry despite walking the village sand roads in hot temperatures and working long days. Instead of leading a church meeting from the platform, I sat on the front bench in intense pain. The locals encouraged me to go see a local doctor, but I declined as I thought it was just an upset stomach. I drank Sprite and took Pepto Bismol to feel better. I finally agreed to go see the doctor on a Thursday, after more urging. The doctor told me he thought it was food poisoning and sent me home. Instead of going back to the village where my house was, I stayed with a local pastor and his family in his town. He gave me some medication that night, but by Friday morning I was still feeling terrible. I returned to the doctor, and he now suspected appendicitis and recommended immediate surgery. Instead of having surgery in Belize, they took me to Mexico, which was a 3-hour drive. But first, I was driven back to my village so I could take care of some details and pack some clothes. I was very weak, so I lay down on my bed. When it was time to leave, I could not stand on my own and needed to be pulled up from the bed whereupon I fainted. The pain subsided, and this is when it is believed my appendix burst.
The pastor I had stayed with drove me to a city in Mexico but first had to cross the border and get out to talk to the authorities at the border. I was finally taken to a hospital, which was more like a clinic. There were only 5 beds and an operating room that looked like it was from the 1950s. I don’t recall much more from that Friday as I had surgery and was all alone in a Mexican clinic. The pastor who drove me to Mexico returned to his home in Belize and left a voice mail informing my parents about my situation. At that time, my mom was a nurse for a local gastroenterologist and her motherly instincts knew she needed to come to be with me as I recuperated. Somehow, which I believe was a God Thing, she got the last airplane ticket to Belize. She quickly packed items I might need medically and also some food for me, as she knew that local food might be too spicy for my sensitive stomach. She flew into Belize and then was driven to Mexico by the pastor and was by my bedside less than 24 hours after my surgery. During that time, my mom had to shop for food as the clinic didn’t have a kitchen. The hospital food was brought to me by a neighbor of the clinic with bugs on the plate. She also had to find a way to pay my bill and there were no ATMs at the time. I tried to help her with the language when she went out, but I was too weak. After visiting five banks, waiting in long lines, and having her credit card rejected, she finally found a bank that knew what to do with a credit card. She returned to the hospital with the cash needed for my discharge.
is what God tells us to focus on. Second Corinthians 5:7 tells us it’s difficult to trust God during uncertain times. My faith made me trust God as He was with me during that time. I was scared, but He comforted me. I felt alone, but He was with me, and He was with my mom as she helped me get better. Even as I returned home after I got some of my strength back, I knew God was with me the whole time and that my faith in Him should never waver.
Doug lives in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania with his wife. He is a project manager for a nonprofit offering vocational training and employment opportunities for Lancaster County adults with developmental disabilities. Photography is his passion, and he never misses an opportunity to take photographs. Doug’s photographic art can be seen and purchased at: https://fineartamerica.com/profiles/doug-hoover
During that time, my faith was strengthened, but I believe I had to be taken to my knees to grow closer to God. Isaiah 55: 8 tells us that His thoughts are not our thoughts or our ways. I was planning to stay a year and even though my time was challenging down there, I felt I was doing His will. When we go through hardships, whether they are financial troubles, painful relationships, damaged health, or questioning our self-worth, it is hard for us to realize that God is still always working in us. This is because as humans, our belief is based on what we see and not by faith, which is
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Gina Sewell is a mom and grandma who lives in the Dallas, Texas area, where she enjoys cooking and spending time with her family. She loves to write about Jesus and encourage others. Gina shares her journey on her website: http://www.ginabartonsewell.wordpress.com
Spiritual Guidance By Gina Sewell
I love opening my Bible in the mornings and receiving a Word from the Lord. It tends to make us feel joyous and loved and helps to guide us through our day. But what about when that message is one of correction that gives us a deep sense of conviction? In that case, we may feel differently. This morning, during my time with Jesus, I opened my Bible and got an immediate Word. It felt a bit sharp throughout my being because even though I felt I had good intentions; I was doing something very wrong. “Do not say to your neighbor, ‘Come back tomorrow and I’ll give it to you,’ when you already have it with you.” (Proverbs 3:28 NIV) How many times has a friend come to you asking to borrow twenty dollars or fifty dollars and, even though you had the money at that moment, you told them you wouldn’t have the money until your payday. Why? Was it because it was more convenient for us to make him wait? Or was it because we were secretly hoping they would get the money elsewhere before then so that we didn’t have to let go of the money? While we tell ourselves if it had been for something super important, we surely would have loaned it to them, right? 20 | M AG A Z I N E N A M E PAGE 3 20
But who are we to try to differentiate what is important versus what can be postponed? Isn’t helping God’s people what we are called to do? God doesn’t give us a list of circumstances in which we are required to offer assistance. Yes, there are times when it is acceptable to say no, but all you need to do is listen to your Spirit, for it will quickly tell you what you should do in any situation. “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17 NIV) “But when he, the Spirit of Truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own, He will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come.” (John 16:13 NIV) Everyone loves verses like, “ask and ye shall receive…”, but how much more should we love verses of correction, knowing full well, that we are being led by the Spirit.
October Prayer By Tynea Lewis
Dear Heavenly Father, we pray for the people whose faith is being shaken. Lord, they are exhausted by the trial they are facing, and it often feels like it’s too much to handle. It seems like their world is crashing down around them, and they have more questions than answers.
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).
You feel so far from them. Lord, they cry out time and time again, and it feels like you are silent. Remind them that you are near. Remind them that you haven’t forgotten about them in this time of need. You are with them in the fire. You are with them, even though it feels like their world is caving in. What they are facing is so much bigger than themselves, and they don’t have the strength to do it on their own. Lord, it’s so easy to try to rely on our own strength. We do it time and time again. We ask for your forgiveness. We can’t do it on our own, and we’re so sorry for trying. Our hope and refuge can only be found in you. Lord, living in a broken world is exhausting and discouraging. There are always things that are going wrong. There are always disappointments. There is always going to be brokenness. Lord, help us keep our eyes focused on you, and remind us that this world is not our home. We will never find what we’re looking for when we try to find it in this world. Our only peace can come from you. Thank you for being with us wherever we go and through whatever we face. Thank you for your love and goodness. Thank you for caring for us in the middle of our brokenness. In Jesus’ name, Amen!
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Riddles of Life 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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Riddles are puzzling statements or questions, often framed as problems to be solved. In the Bible, Samson challenged the young men in his wedding party to solve a riddle he presented to them. (Judges 14:14) When the Queen of Sheba came to learn from the renowned wisdom of Solomon, she tested him with hard questions, or riddles (the same root word translated as ‘riddle’ in Judges 14:14). Life is full of riddles. For some of them, we find clear-cut and resolute answers in God’s Word. The Philippian jailer cried out to Paul and Silas, “… ‘Sirs, what must I do to be saved?’” (Acts 16:30 NKJV). The crystal-clear answer was, “… ‘Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved…’” (Acts 16:31 NKJV). In Capernaum, people asked Jesus, “… ‘What shall we do, that we may work the works of God?’ Jesus answered and said to them, ‘This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He sent.’” (John 6:28, 29 NKJV) Two puzzling questions were resolved with definite answers. Answers to other riddles often are either unanswered or not clearly understood. For example, how can we adequately explain the Trinity? How can one God exist in three separate persons? What happens to the bodies of those who die in Christ before the rapture? Do they get temporary bodies, or do they exist in spirit form until they get a glorified body? Another much discussed, but unanswered riddle is the meaning of the number of the beast, 666, in Revelation 13:18. How would you answer the following riddle? What is temporary, yet never-ending; clouded by unresolved questions, yet brightened by the assurance of future conclusive answers? Here is a hint —
God’s Two Poems By Dave Evans
In the New Testament, the Greek word ‘poiema’, from which the English word ‘poem’ is derived, occurs twice. The first is in Romans 1:20 and is translated in the phrase “by the things that are made”. The second is in Ephesians 2:10 and is translated by the English word ‘workmanship’. God’s poems are those things He has made, and which give testimony to Him.
“For now [in this time of imperfection] we see in a mirror dimly [a blurred reflection, a riddle, an enigma], but then [when the time of perfection comes, we will see reality] face to face. Now I know in part [ just in fragments], but then I will know fully, just as I have been fully known [by God].” 1 Corinthians 13:12 (AMP). The Christian’s earthly life is temporary and will come to an end, but we have been freely given eternal life as a gift from God. (Romans 6:23) And in this life, we know in part, but then we will see God face-toface and will discover decisive answers to unresolved questions. The imagery in 1 Corinthians 13:12 is interesting. “Now”, Paul wrote, “we see in a mirror.” The mirrors of the first century were made of metal, which reflected somewhat indistinct, or distorted, images. And so, Paul wrote, “we see in a mirror dimly,” which is the Greek word ainigma, meaning enigma or riddle. We look into a mirror that reflects a poor-quality image, and what we see is an obscure riddle. Consequently, our understanding of many of the riddles of life is obfuscated. The use of two different Greek words in verse twelve, translated as ‘know’, expresses a progression in knowledge. A former professor explained this increase— “Now we know (Gr. ginosko) only partially. When the Lord has resurrected or ‘raptured’ us and we stand in His presence, we will know fully (Gr. epignosko), as fully as God now knows us. I do not mean that we will be omniscient; we will not be. We will be fully aware.” One exhilarating day, we will be able to review the riddles of life with clearer vision and greater comprehension.
“For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse,” (Romans 1:20 NKJV) In all of creation, there is meter and rhyme; a poem composed by God and written in the things He has made—things clearly seen and understood by mankind, so they know there is a Creator: rhythmic plashing of a cool mountain stream, refreshing whisper of breeze filtering through Live Oak leaves, the crashing cacophony of surf meeting shore, at night, brilliant diamonds densely studding desert sky, and the hues of red, yellow, orange, and pink infusing morning sky, waves of golden prairie grass swaying to the tune of spring breeze, the sound of an industrious Acorn Woodpecker soon after early morning’s light, the plaintive wail of a coyote in the darkness at night--and to this poem is affixed the Creator’s signature “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” (Ephesians 2:10 NKJV) Lives once dead now made alive- His transforming power creating poems of testimony to His saving grace-an inebriated alcoholic now filled with the Spirit of God and serving others, thieves who stole for their own gain, now working and giving to those in need, immoral men and women now living pure and clean, those whose lips spoke lies, now defending the truth, various and sundry lives now made whole… over and over the refrain is repeated as myriads of those redeemed by God become living poems expressing His superlative workmanship.
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The Original Fact Checker By Craig Ruhl
One Sunday, many years ago, Karen and I attended a church near our new home for the first time. While getting seated for the morning worship service, I noticed that many of the congregation had brought their personal Bibles into church with them. The rack in the back of the pew in front of us had enough Bibles and hymnals for the number of people seated in our row, and I presumed that was true for all the pews in the church. I wondered why people brought their own instead of using the ones provided. It occurred to me maybe people liked to use different versions, and they wanted to highlight or make notes in their personal Bible. The choral worship portion of the service ended. As we sat back down, the pastor took his place behind the podium he would preach from. The order of worship called for the reading of scripture and then the sermon. As the pastor opened his Bible, he looked up and he told us that before starting he wanted us all to take our Bibles out, locate the chapter and verse and prepare to follow along as he read. I heard the rustling sounds of books being opened and pages being leafed through. After a few moments, the pastor read the verses, pausing for emphasis and then ending in prayer.
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What happened next took me by surprise. The pastor held his closed Bible aloft in his outstretched hand. He explained why we should bring our personal Bible to church with us. To my surprise, the first reason he gave was that we, as Christians, need to be careful about the information we receive. The example he gave was the Bible passages he had just read. Most of us assume that the pastor or minister leading the service knows what he or she is talking about and they are using correct biblical text in their teaching. We were told that it is our responsibility to confirm that what we are hearing is true and the only way to do that is to look it up for ourselves. He went on to explain the need for us to make notes on what he shared and taught in his sermons. The purpose of doing this was not just to have a record we could go back to; it provided reference points we could look up later and verify for ourselves. This was feeling more like a college class than the church services I knew while growing up. What an eye-opener for me. A pastor is telling us we should be fact-checking his sermons and then teaching us how to go about it. Over the years, Karen and I have used various versions of the Bible, often directed by which one is preferred by the church denomination we are a member of or are attending. Different translations of the Bible may offer the same message but often use wording that makes it easier to understand and relate. Be careful, there are some “versions” that distort truths and may camouflage an un-Christian agenda. When in doubt about a certain Bible version, check with your pastor or a trusted church leader. The original King James Bible is always a good place to start and is the one my family always had at home and my early church ministers taught from.
Karen and I prefer the New King James Version or New International Version because the wording is easier for us to understand and relate to. As an alternative to a paper Bible, there are many good Bible software programs and applications available for computer and mobile devices. We have seen many worshipers in the church who use a tablet or cell phone app instead of a Bible. The important thing is to look it up for yourself so that you know what you are learning is the truth. Besides your everyday Bible use, consider adding a study Bible or two to your library. These wonderful resources aid in the understanding of the wording, context, and history contained in the scripture we read. Study Bibles are available for most versions There is a lot of misinformation being shared in our society, and much of it concerns our Christian faith. If you use any of the social media platforms so popular today, you will see abuse of scripture quotations and biblical teachings. From verses taken out of context to outright misrepresentation, what we read can not only be misleading but damaging too if we believe it without verifying the facts. It is our responsibility to discern right from wrong and what is true from falsehoods. We are called to not further the misrepresentation and untruths by sharing or passing that information to others. Often on social media, I see a post that is questioned by others as not being correct. Several “fact-checking” sources are cited when refuting the original post. Ironically, even those sources are often suspect. We are all familiar with the “Fake News” frenzy that has pervaded our society. There is so much information we are bombarded with that just isn’t correct or true. It’s a wonder we can tell up from down or in from out.
The Whole Armor of God is the scripture found in Ephesians 6:10-20. We are told in verse 11, “Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.” (NKJV) One of the 6 items of armor mentioned in this passage is, “The sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” Ephesians 6:17b (NJKV) This is the basis for us to use when confronted by the devil’s lies. Jesus used this armor whenever he was being tempted by the devil. As our pastor taught us, keep your Bible at hand and learn to check for truthfulness using God’s word. “And the devil said to Him, ‘If You are the Son of God, command this stone to become bread.’” But Jesus answered him, saying, “It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God.’” Ephesians 4:3-4 (NKJV) I think this verse says it best, “Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, ‘If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.’” (NKJV) God’s Word was given long before any dictionary, encyclopedia, or online fact-checker. It is and always will be the last word and best fact-checker.
Craig Ruhl is the Managing Editor of Faith On Every Corner, he is also a Published Writer and handles the business side of Faith On Every Corner, LLC.
How are we to be discerning and wise about what to believe? Pray. Prayerfully ask for the wisdom and discernment to know and understand what God wants us to know and what He would have us do. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide us. We can use our Bible to verify that what we are reading or being told is biblical truth. We need to be diligent in studying scripture and applying what we learn to what the world is telling us.
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Seasons by Yvonne M. Morgan
Fall is just around the corner, but you would not know that where I live. Our temperatures still hover around 100 degrees. However, by the end of the month, the temperatures should begin to cool, and it will feel like autumn. The heat does not stop the signs of fall from appearing as pumpkin spice products and all things Halloween fill the aisles. Often, the commercial world signals the changing of the season for us. Even so, I look forward to each new season for what they bring to the world around me. “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” (Ecclesiastes 3:1 NIV) Seasons of Life It is not just the calendar that displays the seasons. In the biblical book of Ecclesiastes, we find the author pointing to all the seasons of life that affect our daily lives. Those verses found in Ecclesiastes 3:2-8 (NIV) are below. “a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing, a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away, a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace.” 26 | M AG A Z I N E N A M E PAGE 3 26
Each of the above seasons offers us a positive experience contrasted with a difficult time. We see that life will have many ups and downs through these seasons found in the author’s words. Life constantly evolves and changes, and it can leave us wondering where God is in the midst of the chaos. But, as we move through these good and bad times, we are assured that God is right beside us every step of the way. Coping With the Change of Seasons Reading the Bible can help us weather the changing seasons of life. God’s word gives us the hope to carry on, no matter what happens around us. So let’s look at some ways to help us with our struggles. God remains in control. So, no matter what the news is telling you, God is in control, and He wins in the end. Here are some verses to help us remember. • Deuteronomy 31:8 (NIV) - “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” • Psalm 73:26 (NIV) - “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” • John 14:27 (NIV) - “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” • Psalm 125:2 (NIV) - “As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the LORD surrounds his people both now and forevermore.”
God is faithful and will not fail. He is the Alpha and the Omega. And, because of who He is, God is not capable of failure. Here are some verses (NIV) to hold on to. • Numbers 23:19 (NIV) - “God is not man, that he should lie, or a son of man, that he should change his mind. Has he said, and will he not do it? Or has he spoken, and will he not fulfill it?” • Deuteronomy 31:6 (NIV) - “Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.” • Hebrews 10:23 (NIV) - “Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful.” • Lamentations 3:22-23 (NIV) - “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” As our seasons change, God is the strong foundation that allows us to remain standing firm. When we listen to Him instead of the world, we are assured of His timing for everything that happens. Therefore, we must stay faithful to Him even when we feel like giving up.
Blog at Turningmountainsintomolehills.org Twitter: @ymmauthor Website: Yvonne-Morgan.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/YMMauthor/
Daily Bible Study
Myanmar Orphanage The situation in the town surrounding our orphanage is dire. The military controls the town and has shut down all the schools and hospitals. And, the COVID cases are climbing. Please consider helping us as we provide for theses children. Donate at https://www.paypal.me/oreinc Yvonne M Morgan, Christian author and speaker https://yvonne-morgan.com Click on book cover to purchase.
Books: Turning Mountains into Molehills (2017) Rest in God Prayer Journal (9-2020) Faith, Hope, and Love in a Broken World (12-2020)
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DEAR CARL By Anna Friend
Hello, Dear Carl fans, I am thankful for your support of Carl’s mom. She has made a fresh start in the new year. In her mid80s, continuing to thrive for quality of life and establishing a legacy of family love. Carl’s mom had lived in North Carolina for most of her life. She was a southern transplant and had enjoyed the culture, hospitality, and high regard for kin—family closeness. She became a widow in her early 40s and has only one son. Carl was just entering college when his dad died. Carl married a beautiful woman (Donna) with ties in Arizona. He moved and established his home in Arizona soon after college. Carl has 2 sons and is a grandfather of 3 children. Carl’s mom had friends and community work she enjoyed in North Carolina that kept her from moving to Arizona upon her husband’s death. She had lived in the home where she and her husband shared most of their married lives. She eventually moved into a senior living cottage, where every week she sat at her dining table and wrote her son a handwritten letter, though he called her almost every Sunday. Near her ending years, she moved to Arizona to live with her son and his wife in Arizona. She continues to write her son letters to put away for him to read after her passing for comfort and encouragement. This letter is one he would read after her death. She writes in the present tense because she is alive while writing them. I hope you enjoy. — Anna
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Dear Carl, I accompanied Donna on her travels to see her “dermatologist”. I didn’t let on that I knew she was seeing a surgeon who does facelifts and such. I confess while waiting in the car with my book that I took time to pray she wouldn’t be tempted to inquire of the procedure for clown-looking lips. You know I love her to pieces, but I could see her considering it. It’s none of my business, though. Anyway, driving through the desert highway to get there, I looked for a tree, a bush, or something that would reflect that we were in the fall season. Nothing. I must say fall in the Carolinas is beautiful. Flamboyant leaves are almost boisterous in their presentation. “Glory be to God” is their statement. Their leaves are so attractive that people schedule vacations and day trips just to see them. They are drawn to the beauty and the introduction to a season of settling in and slowing down. Just as I was lost in my memory of fall back home, I remembered that the leaves fall. They twirl and float about to the ground. The tree remains. I remember the landscape of a bunch of sticks secured in the ground. There is a lesson with every fall season. In the fall, we prune. My heart is broken for my grandson, and for you, who is enduring his pain of disappointment, discouragement, and doubt. Losing a job at his age and in the midst of a thriving career is truly a devastating mind blow. Blindsided has new meaning for all of us. As a Christian family, we are praying, and our faith is in an all-powerful God who knew this would happen. When our faith pulls thin, we must reach out. I have shared all this with you today at supper. In my encouragement and support, I wanted to document some truths we shared around the table. By the way, the supper you made us was tasty and not too spicy. I am loving some Mexican food these days. I am still getting used to you doing most of the cooking. Donna says you love it and I finally believe it. I wish y’all would let me help do the dishes. I think she has taught me to load the dishwasher well now. I miss the green soap and hot bubbles on my hands, though. Junior has experienced a huge loss, all while he has a child that started college, a wife with a questionable mammogram, and recent costly car repairs. I often wonder how much God will allow. I am reminded of Job just a bit. There truly is no comparison. Job had an adversary that wanted to disprove God and try Job’s faith and character. What I am reminded of is that Job has successive tragedies. In it all, he held on to trust, acknowledging His sovereignty. God placed boundaries around Job, and the enemy could only go so far. God has boundaries around my grandson. Son, we all have a season of pruning. It’s uncomfortable. We get tempted to ask God why. We get comfort sometimes from people who share the idea of the unfairness and unjustness of this life. We go numb. We can make rash or quick decisions. When you are in a season of pruning, Carl, slow down. Consider how good our God has been to you, all the blessings, even your breathing. Then consider that it is written that testing and trials in life will come. Look for ways that these setbacks, worries, and devastations can ultimately be used for self-assessment. Pray for God’s revelation of your heart. This is not to chastise you. He will purge you of any actions or mindsets of our sinful nature. This is an opportunity to prune back areas in life that are not productive, including competing thoughts and priorities. You see, while the trees are barren after a season of a green thriving life, they are still growing new life within, creating new representations, and new songs will be sung. There is a purpose for pruning. It can be painful, but it gets our attention. He will make good out of what the world has inflicted on Junior because Junior loves Him. He loves you too, Carl. Now I must complete my letter with a confession. Tonight, before I sat to write this letter, Donna knocked on the door. She sat on the bed, glistening with her heavy moisturizer. She told me she didn’t want to share but had to. She had to have a cancerous mole removed from her back. My heart squeezed, first in fear, then in conviction. I apologized to her for my earlier thoughts. She said I didn’t have to because she, in fact, used the opportunity to ask about cosmetic surgery. I was told to rest easy. She doesn’t anticipate any more plastic procedures. Love that girl. Let’s fall into our faith. God has our family in His sovereign care. Love, Mom “But he said to her, ‘You speak as one of the foolish women would speak. Shall we receive good from God, and shall we not receive evil?’ In all this Job did not sin with his lips.” (Job 2:10 ESV) “Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.” (Romans 5:3-5 ESV)
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Fall IntobyFaith Karen Ruhl And God said, “See, I have given you every herb that yields seed which is on the face of all the earth, and every tree whose fruit yields seed; to you it shall be for food. -Genesis 1:29 NKJV Have you ever noticed how sunflowers will turn toward the sun as if worshipping the God who created them? They turn so that their stems get the sunlight they need to grow so strong. That started me thinking about growing in God’s word. When we turn our thoughts and actions toward our loving God, we will grow in ways that amaze us. His words teach us how to live each day. We are told to turn our eyes upon Jesus. In Hebrews 12:2 (NKJV), we are told, “Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” There is not one of us who has not sinned and needs to repent and turn from our bad ways. It is truly an amazing feeling how your life will change when you start living a Christ focused life. I have heard people say, I can’t give up this or that, they think they have to quit immediately, but you don’t! God knows everything we do, and He knows our heart. Through prayer and repentance, He will take the desires of our heart and turn us away from what we should not be doing. Am I just preaching? No, I had to turn away from my sinful past. I thought it would be hard, and I worried I might not be forgiven for my sins. It was so much easier than I could have imagined as I fell into a wonderful lifestyle and grew my faith. 30 | M AG A Z I N E N A M E PAGE 3 30
I must admit that my life is totally different today. I still have days when I have to call on God to help give me strength. Days when I feel stress or anxiety over a family member or friend. Days when I listen to too much news and begin to worry about our world. On those days, I fall to my knees and talk to God. I guess you could say I fell into faith as a young girl. I remember watching a show about a little girl who would see Jesus on the mountain. I don’t remember much about the movie except that it tugged at my heart for so long. I was not raised going to church every week, so I started to seek answers. I would go to church with my friends and when I got a chance, I would ask questions. (Not really a surprise to those of you who know me well). Those early steps kept me seeking until I gave my life to Christ and was baptized at the age of 34. I loved Him for most of my life but took that step to commit for the rest of my life at that time. If you want to Fall Into Faith and have your life changed in ways you cannot even imagine, seek a Bible-based church, talk to the Pastor (or try several churches), ask your friends for suggestions, and join us as a member of God’s family. You can always email us with questions at Team@FaithOnEveryCorner.com. Love & Blessings, Karen
Shattered Dreams by Gini Walker
It is hard for me to throw something away. Broken Mr. Toad is an example. When he fell to the ground, I gathered the broken pieces and glued them together as best I could. Next, I painted over the shattered pieces. Although the broken areas remain and are prominent, Mr. Toad now sits in a special place in our family room. I see him every day. I am reminded that many of life’s dreams have been shattered these past few years. The strongest critic of Mr. Shattered Toad was my daughter-in-law. When she saw me working on him, she asked why I was keeping him. Good question. All I could tell her was that I liked him, and he had a new story to tell. As part of our life stories, each member of our family has a favorite verse. Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV) is hers. This verse says: “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.” She clings to the promises of this verse. Has she experienced shattered dreams? YES. Her mother died unexpectedly when our granddaughter was 3 ½ years old. I know she had dreams of her little daughter and mom having many wonderful times together. No doubt she had dreams of seeing her son, gifted in sports, enjoying his grandmother at his games, cheering him on. Although she is a very hard worker and gifted individual, she has experienced shattered dreams in her careers. Yet with these and more shattered dreams, I have no doubt about her faith in promises she has chosen to live by. How can I reconcile the words in Jeremiah to my loved one’s shattered dreams? I can’t. But God can. He is faithful. So, I cling to the promise of my favorite verse: Psalm 46:10, “Be still and know that I am God.” (NIV)
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Rocket Barber is a husband of one, father of three, a minister, a musician, an introvert, and writer who suffers from, in his own words, “a deplorable excess of vocabulary.” He has been published in a variety of locations and showcased a number of styles over the last 30 years. His credits include articles, commentaries, and short fiction for various online, print, and periodical publications, a children’s book, short and full-length screenplays, speech writing, a small poetry anthology, comedic literature, ghostwriting an NYT Bestseller, and once, the album liner notes for a #1 selling musical artist. Rocket currently lives in Granite Falls, NC. He pastors a small congregation at Anchor Church on Duke Street, and encourages you—yes, you—to drop by and say hello if you’re ever in town.
Stories From Our Unfortunate Incarceration
By Rocket Barber The following piece is an excerpt from a brief series of online entries composed and posted while my wife was hospitalized because of complications from COVID. The series began as a few lighthearted commentaries, largely comedic, heavily snarky, yet good-natured, tapped out upon my laptop as a way of passing the time and providing a few blissful moments of respite from the serious nature of my wife’s condition. As the conditions of our stay began to change, so did the nature of my writing. When they first admitted my wife, her room was on a floor that had two COVID patients. Within 48 hours of our arrival, they converted the entire floor to a COVID unit, complete with 25 positive patients in various stages of struggle. The ward was locked down as a safety precaution, creating a scenario where I could stay because I was already living on the unit round-the-clock while my wife was being treated and thus had already been exposed, but because of the lockdown provisions, I now could not leave to visit our children, grab a coffee, or get fresh air. If I left the room, I could not return. Unwilling to leave my wife to fight the virus and its complications alone, I resolved to stay. This led to many long hours of boredom as my wife slept between the bursts of frantic and anxious activity related to her care. In these long lulls, I wrote, I read, I studied my Bible, and perhaps most importantly, I had numerous conversations with the staff. Many of them said that having someone from outside the hospital with whom to speak during working hours was a breath of fresh air. Most had spent over 20 months treating extremely ill patients, most of whom were not allowed visitors, and a large percentage of whom could not communicate because of the toll the virus takes upon their bodies. These conversations, accompanied by my observations of the care they provided my wife and me, and in confluence with my unconventional means of coping, led to the article you are about to read. I hope it brings some perspective to the breadth of their function and purpose in a world so greatly changed by so much that we cannot see.
Stories From Our Unfortunate Incarceration: Part 6—September 6, 2021 This might sting a little, as the old saying goes. Let’s talk numbers for a moment. Since we have been here, we have seen 4 doctors. The ER doctor disclosed that he has personally treated over 3000 COVID patients this year. For the sake of this conversation, bear in mind that this does not include treatment for other ailments or injuries in the course of that time frame. The subsequent 3 doctors we have met since my wife’s admission have treated approximately 300 virus patients each in the same timeframe. Again, this does not include patients treated for other ailments in this hospital, nor does it count patients treated in the offices of their personal practices. The doctors visit each patient daily, and the average length of stay for a COVID patient in this hospital is 10 days. We have had 3 different respiratory therapists visit with us since admission. The respiratory therapists treat approximately 90 patients per 12-hour shift. We have had 4 different phlebotomists visit with us since our interment. One of them confirmed for us they draw blood from up to 120 patients per day, usually twice per day, but sometimes more often based upon doctor’s orders, in the course of a 12-hour shift. We have had 7 different Nurse Assistants. These nurses confirm that each nurse treats, on average, 20 patients per 12-hour shift, checking and recording vital signs at least every 6 hours, and performing general checks for wellbeing and personal needs a minimum of once every 2 hours, but often more frequently based on specific needs or calls for assistance outside of scheduled room visits.
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We have had 5 different Registered Nurses care for my wife. They work 12-hour shifts. A regular schedule is 4 days on, 2 days off, but many of them have been working 5 and 6 days on since the onset of the outbreak last March. They administer medicines and review vitals with each patient in their care at least twice per shift, but often more frequently, based on individual patient requirements. We have not once had an RN in our room when their phone did not ring requesting attendance for the urgent personal needs of other patients or calling for an unexpected change to a patient’s care due to revised doctor’s orders. (On my wife’s worst day, I called the personal line of our nurse no less than 7 times in a single shift, besides the regular visits she was making—and my wife, even on her worst day, was not the sickest person on our floor. The point is, these interruptions are common.)
Proverbs 3:6 urges us, “In all of your ways, acknowledge Him ...” In every situation—not just at church, or during devotions, or when you visit your grandmother—in ALL your ways, give credit that there is something bigger than yourself, more pressing than your burden, that there is a world beyond what we see and feel that needs His presence and His intervention more urgently than it needs to hear of (or make an exception for) your own personal experience.
These numbers are just room visits… face-to-face interactions with patients. This doesn’t include coworker interactions, administrative functions like paperwork, filing, retrieving medicines, delivering vials of blood to the lab, and who knows what else happens beyond this door behind which I am imprisoned these last several days.
I know from conversations that some of these individuals to whom I’ve spoken during this ‘unfortunate incarceration’ do not have a relationship with the Lord, and yet I have seen with my own eyes that they are far more frequently acknowledging Him and far more devout in demonstrating His character than a good number of disciples I know— myself included.
All this to say: Every single time one of these folks has entered our room, they have done so while smiling. Every. Single. One. Every. Single. Time. Not just doing their job. Not just being knowledgeable, focused, urgent. These people have been personable, helpful, gracious, kind, and smiling in the midst of difficulty, during hopeless moments, and amid decline and hardship, just as equally in moments of celebration, joking, and improvement. Now look back at those numbers. Do a bit of math if you’re so bold. That’s how many times they have smiled. That’s how many times they have sincerely cared. Today and every day for the length of their careers, that’s how many times they have done more than just their job description.
For a full week now, I have watched these men and women swallow their own experience—everything from events in their personal lives, to the harrowing, life-altering tragedy to which they attended moments before in the room next door and summon a smile for the sake of acknowledging and communicating that something greater than themselves was happening in our cloister of the ward.
May God bless, abundantly beyond all they can ask or think, the men and women serving in this field who are demonstrating His nature and acknowledging His heart for His people, even as many of them do so unaware. May God reveal Himself to those who do not yet know or understand or believe in the One whose love they are demonstrating daily. May God give me wisdom in every opportunity and use me to reveal Himself to them while I am here. And may the Holy Spirit convict and move to repentance those of us who call ourselves disciples yet neglect to acknowledge Him in every situation. If you happen to know of someone who serves on the front lines in the medical field, please feel free to share this post or tag them as a means of acknowledging and thanking them for their service.
I review those stats and frankly, I’m ashamed of myself. As a textbook introvert who is sincerely and truly empowered to do what I do for the Lord by the grace of God and nothing less, the thought alone of having that many human interactions in a day, the thought of having to so routinely muster the cavalry of joy, sincerity, and selfless humanity on-demand, and furthermore, the thought of summoning the strength to make eye contact and smile so often in the course of 12 hours is cause enough to necessitate throwing a handful of anxiety medication down my gullet like a fun-size pack of Skittles. Quite frankly, I’m embarrassed to think people call what I do “the Lord’s work” after observing the service of these individuals.
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Beautiful scenery around Fancy Gap, Va with a quick stop on the Blue Ridge Parkway - top photo. All photos are copyright to Karen Ruhl 2021
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Road Trippin’ near Fancy Gap, VA and Lake Lure, NC by Karen Ruhl
Hello October! I love every season and enjoy taking photos of landscapes, flowers, butterflies - ok, I just enjoy taking photos of everything! This past month, we did a couple of day trips. The first was to Lake Lure, about 1 1/2 hours away. We use to live about 30 minutes away 4 years ago. We go down to see the amazing Flowering Bridge; everyone should get to visit this bridge. I have included the history of the bridge on the next page. Not far from our house, we stopped so I could snap a few photos of the sunflowers on the right. I have never seen a sunflower like the one on the bottom. It was a true beauty and I later learned they are called Ruby Eclipse due to the red on their pedals.
Karen-Ruhl.pixels.com
Once we arrived at The Flowering Bridge, I started walking and taking photos. I was able to cover about half of the garden before the heat sent me back to the car. It was nearly 90 degrees. You can spend hours walking on the bridge and still not see everything! The bottom photo is one view from just below the bridge at Lake Lure. Make sure you take time to take a boat tour around the lake! We were out for about 6 hours for each of our day trips. Sometimes we stop for lunch at quaint cafes or restaurants, there is no shortage of food around Lake Lure, a short drive takes you to Chimney Rock Village another wonderful area for day trips. Up the road a bit, you will find Batcave, as you can imagine, the Batman song is hummed as we enter this area! We drove home going up to Black Mountain and back on I-40. There is beauty everywhere in this wonderful country - and the world. Go out for a walk around town or for a drive and experience God’s beauty for yourself. May God Bless Your Trips!
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The Lake Lure Flowering Bridge was developed on the historic Rocky Broad River bridge. From 1925 to 2011, the bridge carried traffic on the roadway where US 64, US 74A and NC 9 are joined from the south end of Lake Lure to Bat Cave where the three highways diverge again. The historic bridge is 155 feet long and 20 feet wide, and the gardens fill its entire length. The 1925 bridge is a three-arch span. Its original design included eight light posts topped by decorative lamps. This is truly a wonderful place to visit and watch the Master Gardeners at work donating their time to this project.
All photos are copyright to Karen Ruhl 2020, 2021
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Chad writes Christ-centered and faith-filled poetry, parables, proverbs, devotions, and inspirational short stories. He and his wife, Tina, live in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. They both enjoy walking in nature, inspiring others, and living out their faith in the local community. Chad’s books are available on all major online book retailers.
Faith and Autumn / Poems By Chad Thieman
Falling Again
Halls of Splendor
There I go, falling again, Another obstacle around the bend, Leading me off the narrow path. Father, I wonder where you are at, When I start falling again. When I question you about this, Your answer always amazes me. You simply say, “My child, You can’t stumble on your knees.” So I get down on my knees, And pray, as humble as I can. I ask you, Father, please, Forgive me for falling once again.
Through halls of splendor, I tarry in this wood, In this forest filled with color, Where God is understood. The leaves dance In this cool autumn breeze, As they fall upon the path Stretched out in front of me. I walk the forest floor On a crisp November morn, Giving praise to the Maker, For all that He has formed. Through halls of splendor, I tarry in this wood; In a forest filled with color, Where God is understood. The leaves dance In this cool autumn breeze, As they glide to the ground From lofty, ancient trees. I walk the forest floor And find serenity, Giving thanks to the Lord For all He’s given me.
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Click on book cover to buy Chad’s book on Amazon.
The Pumpkin Carver
Along the Appalachian Trail
There’s an old pumpkin carver, Who carves both great and small; Many faces to be seen, Upon his garden wall. His work is displayed there, Through every autumn season, And people come from miles around, Just to purchase one and see them. Every pumpkin is unique in plan, Each carved with great care, By old, worn, and calloused hands, As he sits silently there. He cuts a face out with a grin, Removing earthly seeds within; Scooping the pulp out from inside, Making room for his light to abide.
A brisk Appalachian breeze, Brings the scent of fresh fallen leaves; As they lie upon the path, The path of uncertainty. And, I’m standing here once again, With my face against the wind; Reflecting on who I am, And the places I have been. Finally seeing beyond the regret, I know, I must never forget; All that brought me to this place, Upon the mountain of God’s grace. I pause to take it all in, The air, the view, the Spirit’s wind. Along this trail I find serenity, As His presence and grace envelop me.
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Walking By Faith
By Maureen Kambarami
Upon arrival at the formation house, I met many other hopefuls. Everyone seemed to possess glittering stories of how they decided to become nuns. My story Growing up, I was never a spiritual person. I only went seemed to be one of tatters and rags, in comparison. For starters, they all knew some of the senior nuns to church because that was expected of me since I and had attended many orientation workshops. Seccame from a Christian family. As a result, my mother ond, most of them came from intact Christian homes was surprised when one day out of the blue, I made a shocking announcement that was unexpected from while I came from a broken home. Third, they also came from either middle class or well-to-do families the lukewarm Christian that I was at the time. while I came from a very poor family; my clothes were even packed in a borrowed bag. “Mum, I want to go to the convent. I want to be a nun,” I blurted out one cold afternoon, as we all sat around the fire. For a moment, there was a deafening A couple of weeks later, we had a lovely initiation ceremony where we exchanged our civilian clothes for silence which was broken by my brother’s sarcastic remark, “You are joking, right? You, in a convent, have uniforms and veils (the ultimate equalizer). My confidence also bounced back. The only problem was that you lost your mind?” I missed my family a lot and had to rely on a letter that I received from them only once in two months. Well, I could not answer that question immediately They seemed to be doing much better without me. because my words had also shocked me. Yes, it had been on my mind for a few days, but the thought was Whenever I had a free time slot, I spent it in church, praying for them. As the days passed by, I became still very strange to me. I had not had much contact with nuns in my life except when I was 8 years old and more assimilated to my new life and my brain absorbed as much as it could. The life I had chosen was when I was 14. Those two incidents were etched in difficult, especially the limits on interaction with fammy memory, and I was convinced that I was making the right decision. My mother was unexpectedly calm ily. My father is the only person who could visit me whenever he liked. He just rocked up unannounced about the whole thing, and she sent me to my aunt, who had been a nun previously before she decided to and his visits always upset me because he blatantly refused to warm up to my new life. However, the quit. This aunt then arranged for a meeting with one more he criticized my decision, the more determined I of the nuns at the nearby mission, and at the end of that meeting, there was light at the end of the tunnel. became. I wanted to serve God as a nun and become “the mother of all” by denying myself the opportunity The only remaining hurdle was breaking the news to have my own family. I loved the freedom of beto my father, and my mother made it clear that she ing uncommitted to any human being—only to God would not be my spokesperson. Luckily, I was called alone— and that I could be sent to different places to to the convent before I saw him, so in the end, I hid do missionary work with no hindrances. behind a letter, which I mailed to him. 40 | M AG A Z I N E N A M E PAGE 40
The novitiate was the last stage of the formation process and it lasted for two years. The rules were stricter in this stage, namely no visits or phone calls from family members unless it was something serious, like illness or death. We moved to a secluded house for this stage, but we still had contact with the outside world once a week when we attended Sunday mass at the nearby parish. The first year in the novitiate passed like a breeze but the second year landed like a tsunami. We were given a new novice mistress, and everything just started going south. I seemed to always be a target and my background seemed to have become a bigger problem than I had envisaged. They considered me a risk, as I could either be running away from marriage (since I came from a broken home) or poverty. I could not fathom how a chosen people, faithful Christians, could be so judgemental. There followed other incidents that were just too scandalous for my faith, which was still in its infancy. It is then that I decided to do some introspection and soul searching. One day, I was in the kitchen washing dishes while a few others were in the dining room talking and laughing. Their laughter irritated me so much that I felt like screaming at them and that is when I realized I was very unhappy and if I was unhappy, what was I doing there? Had God called me to be miserable, or had I overstayed my welcome? I knew no one was forcing me to stay except for the fear of being seen as a failure. That fear kept me awake for many nights after this realization. I knew the stigma attached to leaving the convent since I had also dished stigma-filled words to others in the past. In the end, I asked a colleague to help me mail a letter to my mother informing her of my decision to leave. She had supported me all along, so it was only fair that I prepared her. When her response came, it was surprising, but it was the answer I had been looking for. I then informed the Novice Mistress of my intention, and she gave me a week to decide. A week later, she escorted me home, and guess who held a welcome party for me—my father, of course. He was so overjoyed and did not mince his words, “At least now your head is working right,” he said. I had been away from home for six years and for some time, I felt like a fish out of water. I did not know what to wear, what to do with my hair, how to behave, and how to talk.
I also had to process what had happened. Was I a failure or a bad person? Was it God who had made me leave the convent, or was it the devil? I wrestled with these and many questions and for some time, I was angry with God. Why had he deserted me when I needed him most? I stopped praying altogether in rebellion so God could feel my anger. I wanted to show him I could make it on my own. However, with time, I realized how empty my life was. I missed the walks I took with him, in faith. At the end of it all, I learned to embrace my life as it was and accept all that I had gone through because each incident contributed to my growth. God does not make mistakes, and He does not promise a problem-free life. He acknowledges that we will face storms in our lives in John 16:33, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” Now that I am older, wiser and a well-chiselled Christian, I understand better that chapter of my life and I would not exchange it for anything. I am glad about that experience and the way it shaped my life.
Maureen Cresencia Kambarami is a Social Worker with extensive experience in family counseling and therapy. A woman after God’s word and principles, she is passionate about writing Christian articles and believes in telling authentic stories to inspire and uplift others.
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Faith On Every Corner Bookshelf Walk Like A Warrior by Shara Bueler-Repka Reviewed by Karen Ruhl If you would like to take an adventure, see some amazing photographs, and read stories of inspiration and encouragement, you really need to get this book.
Click on book cover to purchase this book. Shara and her husband, Bruce, are a Christian Country music duo, called Pony Express Ministry. We are so happy to have a copy of their book on our personal bookshelf!
Shara and her husband travel the backroads in their fourteen-foot short-wall, three-stall, living quarters horse trailer with their two horses, Rocky and Nocona - the lovingly call the boys. Each adventure begins with a Bible verse and quickly pulls you in to a new story. Their faith is strong. This description is on the back of their book, I am using it because I don’t think I could write anything better. In life’s challenging moments, do you search for testimonies of encouragement that exemplify God’s love, grace, protection, and provision? Find inspiration as you enjoy the many photographs and travel with Shara and Bruce, living the adventure. If you would like to know more about Shara and Bruce, you can visit their website at http://ponyexpressministry.com/home.html
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Faith On Every Corner Bookshelf Sweet Summer: A Clean Beach Romance by Christina Sinisi Reviewed by Karen Ruhl From the first page of this book, you will be drawn in to see what Shelby Marano is up to. She is running in a thunderstorm and happens into a museum where she meats Tyler Burgess. Christina is great at character development and keeping the story on track. The interaction between Christina and her family and friends are very realistic. When I read Christina’s books, I immediately see a movie in the making. Her writing let’s your imagination take you along with Shelby as she makes her way through life. I always struggle with my reviews in wanting to tell you more but not giving away any of the storyline. This is a sweet and romantic book that will touch everyone in some way. You will find a character to relate to, whether you are an older sister or a friend. And you will see how God is working through others to touch Shelby.
Click on book cover to purchase this book from Amazon.com.
We are thrilled to have this book on our bookshelf and really hope to see a movie producer pick this up!
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 guidelnes. Team@FaithOnEveryCorner.com
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Faith On Every Corner Bookshelf
What Do I Say When Asked About Jesus By Dave Foucar Reviewed by Craig Ruhl
Click on the book covers to purchase these book from Amazon.com.
Dave Foucar’s book, What Do I Say When Asked About Jesus? offers a wonderfully refreshing discussion about one of the basic tenants of Christianity. I often have been a bit intimidated by the subject of evangelism even after receiving church instruction and training for it. This book starts by looking at the ‘why’ of telling others about Jesus, moves through the preparation stages, and offers real-life encouragement and examples of sharing our faith and the gospel. I especially like the approach the author takes in his presentation; he teaches without preaching and does so in a friendly conversational manner. The book offers a series of thought-provoking questions at the end of the chapters that reinforce what we learned and promote reflection, making the book a valuable work or guidebook. Another feature of the book I consider valuable is the use of specific Bible citations to support the author’s thoughts and the handy reference section at the end of the book. This book will inspire those new to share their faith with others as well as those who need a refresher course. We have placed a copy of What Do I Say When Asked About Jesus? on the Faith On Every Corner Bookshelf and on our personal bookshelf and recommend it to our readers.
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Faith On Every Corner Bookshelf
Ko’olau’s Secret by Sharon K. Connell Reviewed by Craig Ruhl
Click on the book covers to purchase these book from Amazon.com.
In her latest novel, Koʻolau’s Secret, Sharon Connell has combined suspenseful action and mystery with romance and has placed the scene in one of the most beautiful and exotic settings—Hawaii. One of the author’s many strengths is the amount of research she puts into her writing, and this book doesn’t disappoint. As the story unfolds, you become immersed in the rich Hawaiian culture, history, and traditions. There is even an introductory help section on the unique native language and pronunciation of certain words used in the book. I’ll not give away the story line, however, the pace is quick, and the characters are well developed, providing a thrilling, and satisfying read. I particularly love that Sharon is a Christian fiction writer and her content is family safe. If this is your first introduction to the work of Sharon Connell, it will delight you to know she has many more novels and short stories to explore. I loved this book and highly recommend it to our Faith On Every Corner readers!
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 guidelnes. Team@FaithOnEveryCorner.com
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Me and You
by Mike Buchanan The following is a paraphrase of a non-audible conversation I had with Jesus in San Antonio in 1987. The Me is, well, me. The You is Jesus. I had walked with Him for a few years, then humans happened. I had fallen as far as I could. He was waiting for me. I had fallen (back?) into faith. Me. It’s all about me. I know best. I can learn all. I can control my own destiny. You. It’s all about you. I know best for you. I can send a Teacher who can teach you all truth. I wrote your ending before the world started. Me. I have wants. I want my needs when I want them. I can have all. I can be happy when I have all. You. You have needs. I can meet your needs when you ask for them. You can have more than you ever dreamed. You can be happy when I give you all I have. Me. I have made my life. I built my name. My name opens doors. The doors open to my dreams 46 | M AG A Z I N E N A M E PAGE 3 46
Mike Buchanan is a Christian writer and the author of the book Mountains of Hope Surrounding the Valley of Cancer. He uses his writing talents to further Jesus’ Gospel.
You. I gave My Life for you. You can be called by My Name. My Name opens Heaven’s Throne Room. The Throne Room opens God’s Treasures. Me. I have doubts. I have an ending. I have fears about the ending. I can’t control the ending on my own. You. You need faith. You need a new beginning. You need My Peace about your ending. You need to know I conquered the ending on my own. Me. I need faith. I need change. I need someone else in control. I need a Savior, Redeemer, Friend. You. You can walk in faith. You can receive grace to change. You can trust Me to be in control. You can have Me as Savior, Redeemer, Friend. If you’re reading this and you find yourself in a similar situation, Jesus is still the same. He still reaches out to those who want something infinitely, life-changingly better. Admit you can’t match up to His standards. Accept the work He did on the cross for the forgiveness of your sins, and receive Him as your Lord and Savior. Then I would encourage you to let someone know you’ve made that decision. Reach out for others to help you as you start your new life with Jesus.
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Circle of Trust By Jeff Foster
My typical day begins at five A.M. I take a few pills, which my doctor insists I need in order to stay healthy. I then sit down at my desk to enjoy my life-sustaining daily bread from God’s word. After a few chapters and maybe a few notes, it’s time to eat a light breakfast and get ready for work. My commute takes about thirty-five minutes and it’s mostly two-lane roads with light traffic. During those thirty-five minutes of relative quiet, I have my morning talk with my Father. My mornings have become a series of routine habits. I like having a routine. Some would say I am a “creature of habit.” I am comfortable with that. It is my nature to dislike change. Any disruption of my routine tends to frustrate me. I’m no different from most people; I want to stay in my comfort zone. A few weeks ago, on my way to work, I was praying to my Father as usual. My prayers always begin with praise and gratitude. I’m specific with what I am grateful for. I think it’s important to not just generalize “blessings”. God blesses each of us with so much that we can’t possibly name them all, but I believe it’s important to name a few things that are special to us, especially if it’s an answered prayer. From praise and gratitude, I move to asking forgiveness for anything I’ve done wrong. Next is the intercessory portion of my prayer. I have confidence in intercessory prayer because I have seen those answered many times. I have family and loved ones that I name daily to God for protection, guidance, or comfort as the need may be. But this particular morning the Holy Spirit threw up a giant stop sign, freezing me in the middle of my routine. I don’t know if it was a few seconds or a few minutes, but I couldn’t speak, humbled into silence by the omniscient God. Finally, the realization was prodded into my mind. I needed to pray for me first. I rarely ask anyone to pray for me. Somehow, I think it sounds selfish, especially since God has so richly blessed me with good health and provisions for life. 48 | M AG A Z I N E N A M E .PAGE 3 48
Let me be perfectly clear though, it is NEVER selfish to ask someone to pray for you. We survive by God’s grace alone and we absolutely should be praying for each other. At this particular moment, when God’s Holy Spirit stopped my “routine” prayer, I realized that I needed to make some changes. My prayer life had always included asking for help in understanding God’s word, that I would glean something from it that would be a help to me in serving Him. I’ve asked for help in recognizing when God puts an opportunity in my path to serve in whatever capacity He chooses. I would be careful to ask that whatever is done by my hand would be seen as the work of the Holy Spirit, not by me. But the one thing that’s needed that I wasn’t asking for is that I would be counted as trustworthy by everyone I meet. People must trust you before they will accept anything you say or try to do for them. We all have acquaintances, family, and friends that, even though we may love them dearly, we know we can’t trust them. We can’t change that. What we can change however is to live our life in a manner that makes us known to be trustworthy, especially to those people that we do not trust. Although I’m sure those closest to me, those in my circle of trust, would know me as trustworthy, I realized that I was not making a conscious effort for those that I did not trust to know that. I was doing very little to make those people believe that they could safely confide in me. Without confidence in me, how could anyone trust me enough to listen when I tell them about Jesus? That doesn’t sound very Christ-like, does it?
When Jesus walked this earth, He provided many examples of His trustworthiness. Sadly, His disciples and those close to Him were often the most forgetful of what He could accomplish for them. Nevertheless, the fame of the miracles He performed was widely known. Jesus made an intentional effort to seek out society’s least desirable people of the day in order to show the power of His Father. It was an effort that caused these people, the ones that were least trusted in society, to trust Him fully. Zacchaeus, the distrusted tax collector, for example, showed no hesitation when Jesus called him down out of the sycamore tree, and because he trusted Jesus, he and his family were saved. The most moving story of compassion though, I believe, is that of the Greek woman, a Gentile, who came begging Jesus to cast out the devil that was in her daughter. Jesus’ first answer may seem cruel, but this woman knew she could fully trust Jesus to help her. Jesus was her last hope and because she was able to trust Him, her daughter was healed. The compassionate, trustworthy character she saw in Jesus is the character that I need to strive for. The Christian as an ambassador for Christ should have the same listening ear, the same helpful hand, the same compassionate heart, for the stranger as he does for the closest loved one. That is very difficult, if not impossible, for us to do on our own. It is simply not in our natural character. We must fully surrender to Christ and allow Him to change our character. Our character should, without any trace of doubt, show us as trustworthy to whomever we meet, whether it be a hated tax collector or an outcast foreigner.
And now I humbly ask you to pray for me, that I would be considered trustworthy to anyone that crosses my path so that I might be trusted to point someone to Jesus, whether a trusted loved one or an unknown stranger. “For a certain woman, whose young daughter had an unclean spirit, heard of him, and came and fell at his feet: The woman was a Greek, a Syrophenician by nation; and she besought him that he would cast forth the devil out of her daughter. But Jesus said unto her, Let the children first be filled: for it is not meet to take the children’s bread, and to cast it unto the dogs. And she answered and said unto him, Yes, Lord: yet the dogs under the table eat of the children’s crumbs. And he said unto her, For this saying go thy way; the devil is gone out of thy daughter. And when she was come to her house, she found the devil gone out, and her daughter laid upon the bed.” (Mark 7:25-30 KJV) The following appeared on April 18, 2021, on my blog SeedSowing.org.
Jeff Foster and his wife Lorena live in Granite Falls, NC. As a mechanical engineer with many years of technical writing experience, he discovered his calling to devotional writing in 2018. He finds purpose in his writing by encouraging the saints and inspiring them to strive for a closer walk with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. His website was launched in April of this year www.seedsowing.org.
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Living Your Faith By Brenda McDaniel
I grew up with a mother, Olga, who lived her faith daily. She was born on 9/15/1928 and since her birthdate is coming up, I wanted to write about her Christian life. She lived a long life, dying at age 84. She grew up in West Virginia, raised by her Christian grandparents, as her mother passed away a little after childbirth. My mother was a loving, sweet child, dearly loved by her grandparents, aunts, and uncles. She was raised to love and respect others - whether family, friends, or strangers. A truly loving soul. When she grew up, she attended nursing college. Her aunt Hattie, who was a nurse, encouraged her to become one too and live a life of loving and caring for others in need. She spent most of her working life as a nurse, working in local hospitals. Her patients would complement her daily for her love, caring, and devotion to her patients and others. She had a genuine love and heart for others. My mother married in her twenties. She had four children; one died in childbirth. She was a strong Christian woman and raised her children to be as well. Reading her Bible to us kids daily, she encouraged us to always love each other, our friends, and others. My mother was one who never met a stranger. She made sure we went to church and were all baptized. She loved us no matter what happened. Her husband Earl, our dad, suffered from mental illness most of his adult life. All their married life, she stayed with him, helped, and prayed for him. She never gave up on anyone, encouraging, loving, and caring, no matter what happened. Just as our Lord Jesus Christ never gave up on the human race and died on the cruel cross for our sins. My mother definitely loved her Lord and lived by His example. She was a loving, devoted mother who blessed all who knew her. “Who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is far above rubies.” (Proverbs 31-10 KJV)
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!
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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 guidelnes. Team@FaithOnEveryCorner.com
Do you like taking Photos? As a photographer myself, I love to feature other people on our front cover. You don’t have to be a professional, I will even feature great cell phone shots. If you would like to learn more, please email me at Team@FaithOnEveryCorner.com - put Photography in your subject line. Blessings, Karen Ruhl
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Be Still
By Karen Ruhl Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth! -Psalm 46:10
Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth! -Psalm 46:10 NKJV A favorite time of my day is when Craig and I go out and sit on our patio. We live in a beautiful neighborhood with mature trees and wonderful neighbors. This is a time when we put our work away and enjoy the outdoors. Our neighbors stop over to chat and others wave or honk as they drive by. It is a peaceful time. As we talk about things going on in our lives, we often stop and pray immediately. We lift up those who are ill or needing help in their lives. We lift up our own needs as well. And then, we will sit quietly just watching the world around us. I would like to encourage you to find a quiet time to be still and listen for God’s word. It will probably come in a verse, or someone may stop by and say something that is affirming. Being still may mean to put away your stress, stop battling and give it to God. And then, and this is not easy, don’t take it back. I say this isn’t easy because I admit that I often take back the stress or worry. It takes practice to give it to God and then let it be handled by Him. You may not get an immediate answer or reaction, you may feel the stress for a long period of time. We need to be reminded that God is the one in control. Recently, we had a family situation that caused quite a bit of sadness and stress in our family. We tried to help but it was not something we were prepared to handle. After decisions were made, we had a rough time wondering if we made the right decisions. The next morning, God let me know that we were under Spiritual Warfare and the decisions we made (through prayer) were to help us stay safe. We were being protected and kept safe from harm. I looked in my study bible to get clarity on Psalm 46:10, sometimes we use verses without knowing the meaning of the verse. I suggest you read Psalm 46 and pray about it. Verse 46:10 talks about war and destruction and tells that they are inevitable. It goes on to say that at the time when God has final victory, we will all stand quietly before the all-powerful Lord. So how much more can we honor him by taking time each and every day to be still and honor God. Find a quiet place, pray, and then sit quietly. Let God whisper to you. Again, you may not hear him audibly, few people I know do. He affirms my prayers by sending scripture repeatedly. It may be in a devotion I get, a book I am reading, a friend’s post on social media, or just a knowledge that I should look the scripture up and pray over it. Each of us will receive His word in different ways. Stay Silent, Be Still, Know that He is God. Blessings to you all, Karen 52 | M AG A Z I N E N A M E PAGE 3 52
Faith
By Dr. Irene Surya When doubt assails you When unbelief perturbs you When they create ripples In the crystal clear lake of the mind.
Dr. Irene Surya has published a book of poems, In Solitude with God. Her poems have been published in various magazines. She loves and serves the Lord with her husband. She is a devout mother to her two daughters and has earned her doctorate in engineering from a premium institution. Currently, she is working as a research analyst in a research company.
Click on book to purchase on Amazon.
Put on the lens of faith And look yonder to the eternal As faith is the belief in the unseen And not on the visible things. As the serene azure sky Spreads far high above the earth The ways of God Are higher than our ways. The God who feeds the sparrows And beautifully clothes the lilies Has numbered even the hair on your head And knows that which is best for you. We have a great cloud of witnesses Who have gone ahead of us And have shown us the way Of faith in Christ, our Lord. As the dazzling sunbeams Shimmers inside the woods Trusting in God’s ways Adds beauty to life. Let us be the singing nightingales That sing God’s greatness And run with endurance The race that is set before us.
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Fall Into Faith By Sharon K. Connell
The autumn of the year brings so many delights. Cooler weather, the trees, and plants turn to beautiful colors (even in the south sometimes), kids are back in school for some, thoughts of a bountiful harvest, getting together with friends and loved ones for Thanksgiving, and then preparations for Christmas. It’s as though the world slows to a manageable pace once we slide by Labor Day. If you’re anything like me, my entire being seems to take a deep breath and lets it out slowly. My body relaxes as if I’ve run a race during the previous eight months. Reading becomes more enjoyable as I become calmer and more comfortable. What a wonderful time to spend studying the Bible. To sit out in the mild weather and talk to our Lord. The topic being Fall into Faith this month reminded me of falling in love. With all the hurriedness of the earlier months and the things we planned to get done after the new year started and over the summer, have we neglected our Lord? He is the Love of our life. Have we maybe put Him on hold… just a little? Forgotten to have that early morning talk with Him? Put His Word on the shelf while other things took precedence?
Have we even lost our faith in God as our Protector, Provider, and Counselor? Have we taken a step back and fallen out of faith? Faith in our Lord to provide our needs in times of stress and hardship? Faith that He has our best interest always in mind, even when the trials come? One verse that has been going over and over in my mind lately is Hebrews 13:5 “Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” (AKJV) Even when we have fallen out of faith, He will still be there for us. 2 Timothy 2:13 says, “if we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself.” (AKJV) He’s there for you, no matter what is going on in your life. Let’s fall back into faith. It’s as easy as falling into a pile of autumn leaves. Spend time with our Lord, whether on your knees in prayer or listening to Him by reading His Word. Strengthen your faith. Fall into Faith.
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Click to order Sharon’s books. 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. 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 (click the link)
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Harvest Time By Cindy Oriol
When I was a child, my friends and I loved it after it rained so we could make mud pies. We formed the mud into different pieces of food and pretended we had taken a bite. Yummy! We took our time molding it through our fingers to make just the perfect piece. This reminds me of the scripture in Isaiah 64:8, “Yet you, Lord, are our Father. We are the clay, you are the I remember going to the Farmers Market every Wednesday with my mom. That was a special time to potter; we are all the work of your hand. I can just bond with her. I saw large crates of beautiful, luscious picture Jesus shaping and molding each one of us.” (NIV) As the clay hardens, sometimes, it will crack fruits of all kinds. Because my siblings and I loved watermelon so much, mom always made sure to buy just like our lives will have cracks in it. But Jesus will always be there to pick up the broken pieces and us one. It wasn’t a surprise to anyone to see us cut off a big slice, grab a salt shaker and go to our back- mold us together again. yard. At the market, I was so amazed by all shapes, I remember my first try at stripping off tobacco sizes, and radiant flowers. It was as if each one was leaves for a friend and how big and green they were. calling me to come closer to smell their perfume I recall how sweaty and sticky we were from the sap. fragrances. I had never seen so much beauty or that We pulled the leaves from the stalks until we had a many flowers. large handful. Then we tied the leaves with a heavy cord. Once we had our leaves tied together, other The first country fair I went to was very exciting. I workers stuck the bundles with a spear. When we had never been to one, and I actually did not know had enough tobacco on the sticks, we would drive what to expect. My cousin took me to the Harvest Home Fair. When we first arrived, I saw other children to a nearby barn and the men would lay the spears across the rafters to finish curing. As I was walking riding the Ferris wheel. They were screaming with towards the pickup truck, I heard this horrible crashtotal joy. I had so much fun riding it. ing sound like something had cracked. I looked on the side of the truck and saw that our oldest man, who was 82, this was also his tobacco, had fallen off one of the rafters. He landed flat on his back and head. Growing up in downtown Cincinnati, Ohio, we didn’t have anywhere to grow a vegetable garden or plant flower beds. The only grass we had was a few patches growing in between the bricks of our yard. My mom explained later it was actually weeds.
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I cupped my hands together and held his bloody head in my hands. My tears were pouring as I begged him, “Please do not die.” Later that day, we received great news from the hospital telling us he wasn’t seriously injured except for the back of his head. I knew the Lord was with all of us that day. To be prepared for harvest time, you need many people to do their job, and it takes a lot of preparation to make bold decisions at all times. If you do not have the workers, you can not finish the job correctly. There is another way to harvest, and that is for Jesus. He tells us in Matthew 9:37 that the harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. He needs us to be His workers. We are His hands and feet while we are still on this earth. He is calling upon his workers to be just as plentiful as the harvest. But are we really listening and obeying His call? Let us be bold and stand up for Jesus. Look at what He has done for us by taking away our sins as He was nailed to the cross. Come together and share the Good News with everyone that He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through Him. (John 14:6) There are so many people scattered on this earth who have never even heard of Jesus. Let us bring the gospel to them.
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Blessed, Regardless of the Outcome by Scott Dunn
I live a very blessed life; God has been good to me in ways that still blow my mind. He gave me an amazing, loving mother. She has the kindest soul I have ever known in my time on earth. He’s blessed me with an amazing wife and children—a blessing I was extremely humbled with when I found out I could not have kids. He’d answered that prayer before I realized it. The times I truly feared for my own life can be counted on one hand. Once, while moving an old ancient safe, when I sat it down a black widow crawled out of the door and across my hand. Another time, when I had been sick for some time and had to have a colonoscopy to figure out what was going on. And when I was 21 and someone had spiked something of mine with a drug and I found myself laying on the grass at an apartment building that I did not know the location of. I have acute clarity that my heart was sprinting like an untamed mustang, and I thought for sure I would not survive that. I wouldn’t say I have a colored past, but when I ran from God, I sure had some adventures! Even when most of those adventures I thought were worth something cost me everything; I was able to come home. You see, I had run from my parents and God. Having met this girl on the internet, I gave up my life and moved to Kansas to be with her. I was young and it was scary and exciting all at once. I flew down one time, rode a greyhound another, and finally one day, I packed what meager things a young adult may have into my car and I drove from Baltimore, Maryland to Topeka, Kansas. Her mom liked me, mostly, and let me stay in her basement while I figured out things. I had a job working for Verizon within two weeks and moved out within six months. For being under 25, I was making almost $27 an hour, and back in 2002, that was a good amount of money!
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That lasted for about two years and shortly after I asked her to marry me, she ended things. It was brutal. I was the one who worked; she stayed home. She had access to all the cards and savings we had. I came home one day to an almost bare apartment with maxed-out credit cards and an anemic account. I tried to make it work after that whirlwind. I was stubborn, you see, and did not want to phone home a failure. Yet, I eventually had to. “Come home, son.” It was the most crushing and relieving words I had heard from my parents. I was getting evicted anyway, so I rented a U-Haul on a card that had just enough to secure the truck, sold my car for $600, and then packed my things in the middle of the night. I left Kansas with a mattress, some clothes, a pet snake, and a lot of baggage that took me years to unpack. My parents had already moved to North Carolina, so that was the ‘home’ I drove to. I can remember getting to their house and unpacking the truck. My mattress was ruined. It had rained on the drive and the truck was apparently not sealed. I didn’t care. I dropped the truck off and then slept. Those were some very difficult days. I spent several years trying to eat myself to death.
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I hardly left my room. I built websites for illegal software sharing and used that money to help my parents out. It wasn’t until I had a headhunter seek me out for my experience in the cellular industry that I realized I needed to get my life back in order. When I got the second interview, I had to get new clothes and really learn to be a functioning person in society again. A much different person now, I reflect on that period of my life, and I am embarrassed about it. I literally do not recognize who that young man was, but I know I am grateful for the life he lived. I would not be who I am without his pain, his hurt, his depression, and his experiences. What I remember most of all is after getting that second interview, I cried. I was worth something to someone. After a couple of years, I started seeking God again and my faith became stronger. I did not attend church, but I used the internet to listen to pastors and to reconnect with God in ways I had forgotten. The faith I have now is so different from that when I was young and hungry to just know things. I still want to know things, but I view my faith for what it is—an intimate, love-filled relationship with God. Since reconnecting, there have been two times when I have been on my knees crying in total submission. Acknowledging the wretch, I am praising His omnipotence and grateful to my core for God’s love and grace. The first was the colonoscopy, where I feared the worse. The vulnerability of that time is a stark memory for me. It’s one of the times where I didn’t even try to beg or barter with God. It’s the first time I knew I could fall completely into my faith and God was there for me. I wasn’t even scared to do that! I mean, yeah, I feared the colonoscopy and all because I’m human and I still enjoy people enough to want to be here. But I felt emboldened knowing I was at utter submission. I was at peace. The second time was literally before writing this article. That woman, my mother, is having a very rough time right now. As I write this, she is in the ER at a hospital filled to capacity with COVID-19 patients. She has emphysema from a life of smoking. She was recently diagnosed with lung cancer and has just completed a round of chemo. Her immune system is severely compromised, and she is COVID-19 positive.
I don’t have fancy words for you, and I don’t have scripture to throw at you. I just have experiences to share and a faith that I have fallen into completely. I don’t know what God’s plans are. I know He is good. I am terrified for my mother’s life. Even though the future of her time on earth is unknown, I know she will be waiting for me when God calls her home. I won’t beg and barter, but I will believe that whatever the outcome, God does have a solid purpose for this. It’s just hard to swallow when you see a person you have known your whole life become this frail being, ravaged by two of the most tragic things to plague humanity. I write this broken and uncertain about the future. I also write it firmly in my faith. I am blessed, regardless of the outcome.
Scott Dunn is a Christian husband and father who has spent over 15 years in the telecommunications industry. He is the founder of Talking with God (https://twgpodcast.com), a podcast that seeks to educate and encourage a closer relationship with God. Scott is a northerner who migrated south and has fully acclimated to the wonderful area known as the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. He serves at his local church by helping with the production and online streaming of services. He has a genuine passion for the Christian man and his responsibilities, often writing about them on his blog https://justholdfast.com. Here he shares open and real-life experiences so that other men can relate to the human condition and how that relates to a stronger love relationship with God.
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Shara Bueler-Repka is enjoying life as a singer/songwriter/recording artist, freelance writer, and award-winning author. She and her husband, Bruce, live in their living quarters horse trailer and call “home” wherever their rig is parked. Their mail-base, however, is Hallettsville, Texas. She loves sharing God’s Word through music with her husband, riding their horses (aka The Boys) in the backcountry, and writing about God’s grace in their various adventures on the trail less traveled. Join the fun and be encouraged on their website: www.ponyexpressministry. com, her blog: https://lifeonthetraillesstraveled.wordpress. com/, or come for a visit on Facebook or Faith Social.
The Thing About Weeds by by Shara Bueler-Repka
Show me Your ways, O LORD; Teach me Your paths. Lead me in Your truth and teach me, For You are the God of my salvation; On You I wait all the day. (Psalm 25:4-5 NKJV) When I was a kid, one of my jobs was pulling weeds. And, boy, did we have a lot of them! I think every species of weed God ever created lived on our place. Some of them pulled up quite easily. (I liked those kinds.) Others just needed a little tug. But there were those that rose triumphantly out of their hard soil, defiantly challenging me to give it my best shot. Mustard weeds. They hated me as much as I hated them— their pretty little yellow flowers belying what they truly were! These kept me from what I really wanted to do—ride my horse, swim in the pool, play in the stream—the good life! So, I set about devising ways to quickly unearth them from their resistant soil. My first introduction to this ominous task was a comical one indeed. I grabbed ahold of the top of the weed and heaved with everything I had, putting my whole-body weight into it (which wasn’t much at eight years old). Suddenly the little flowers, stems, and all gave way and rifted through my fingers like a slick rope, sending me sprawling on my backside. Flopped on my fanny in the dirt, I opened my hand. Yellow petal remnants and green stems were all I had to show for my labor.
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Undaunted, I figured I’d get a little smarter. I know what I’ll do. I’ll grab a little closer to the root! The process repeated itself, only with more grunting and growling. This particular process, however, yielded less “fruit” than the previous one—the stems and flowers didn’t even come off. Desperate now, I chose the next trick up my sleeve (albeit a devious one). I’ll just whack off the top of that thing with a hoe—close enough to the ground so you can barely see it. (OK, well, then kick dirt over the top to really cover it.) I figured, however, there could be another type of pain in my backside if I didn’t cease and desist this practice. (Yeah, my dad’s pretty smart!) Stumped and annoyed, I stormed to my dad and whined, “Those stupid weeds can NOT be pulled out!” My dad probably chuckled inside, but he never let it show. He knew exactly how to get rid of them. In fact, the solution was so simple, it took no time at all. The solution? Water. We soaked the ground around the root and, little by little, the water saturated the dirt. I then gripped the weed by the base and pulled it up and out with relative ease.
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As I thought about my childhood weed escapades, I reflected on my life and the decisions I made regarding the “weeds of life.” Oh, how I wish I would have asked the Lord His opinion in my situations— His wisdom—instead of running off with my own brilliant conclusions. Many times, I whacked off the top of the problem, but never got to the root of what caused it. And, of course, in time, the issue (head of the weed) came up again because the root was still there. (Proverbs 14:12; Isaiah 48:17; Hebrews 10:19-23) As I contemplated the water solution to those mustard weeds, I remembered the verse in Ephesians 5 where God says He “cleanses us with the washing of water by the Word.” As I read the Bible and allow His words to saturate my soul, I’m finding that the hard places in my heart are being softened. (Ephesians 5:25-27) I’ve also discovered the reason I wanted to make my own decisions. I had a trust issue. This issue was the head of the “weed.” And the root of that weed? Fear. I finally understood 1 John 4:18 and “perfect love casts out fear.” I’m learning the more I focus on my relationship with Him (reading His Word, letting His Spirit guide my thoughts and actions, talking to Him and asking Him questions, etc.), the more my trust in Him builds. That trust is developing into love for Him and a revelation of His perfect love— His unconditional love. (Proverbs 3:5-6; Lamentations 3:24-25)
Day by day, I’m letting my opinion get lost in His. Contrary roots are disappearing, setting me free, and bringing His amazing peace—the good life. (Galatians 5:1) On a broader scale, Jesus is not only interested in dealing with the contrary individual roots in our lives. He is also targeting the perverse roots that have invaded our beloved nation. The wicked we see: corrupt leaders, election fraud, Critical Race Theory, abortion issues, homosexuality issues, Covid issues, violence, attacks on religious freedom, and on and on are, believe it or not, the heads of weeds, not the roots. Jesus is targeting the roots. And there will be an uprooting, a shaking like we’ve never seen. The deep roots of evil will be torn up and the dirt’s going to fly. Brace yourself—it’ll be intense! But this is a good thing as God has heard His peoples’ penitent and urgent prayers, and He is moving to cleanse this nation, bringing her back to Him. The outcome will be awesome! Be encouraged. The promise of refuge and peace in the storm is ours if we keep our eyes on Jesus, listening to and obeying His Holy Spirit in everything, roots included, both physical and spiritual. (Psalm 91).
My trust in Him has grown to the point where I can ask Him David’s scary question: “Lord, if there be any wicked way in me, please tell me,” and not be afraid of the proverbial lightning bolt. He’s definitely gracious and kind to a penitent heart! (Psalm 139:23-24) Day by day, I’m letting my opinion get lost in His. Contrary roots are disappearing, setting me free, and bringing His amazing peace—the good life. (Galatians 5:1)
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Jean is a Christian copywriter living in Denver. She has 3 grown children, one who is in heaven. She enjoys riding her tricycle and playing the piano.
I Was There By Jean Allord
They said that I would never know, That I wouldn’t really care, Nor even that I was alive at all; But I was there. Why did no one listen? Why did no one care? I couldn’t even cry for help But I was there. Some may need lots of friends, But I needed just one other; Some may need lots of things, But I only needed a Mother. I may have been a president, Or just an average man; But that was for me to choose In the best way that I can. My tiny heart was beating Ever so silently; But my life they were cheating Ever so violently. I had lived from the very first When a tiny soul joined to share; But before I could draw a breath I felt the chill of death. Yes, oh yes, I was there!
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Devoted To God by Karen Ruhl
As I was thinking about what to write this article today, I thought I would look up the definition of devoted. Many times, we use common words and have an understanding of what they mean in our context, and yet, they have a far deeper meaning as well. Devoted: very loving or loyal Devoted: given over to the display, study, or discussion of Devotion: love, loyalty, or enthusiasm for a person, activity, or cause Devotion: religious worship or observance Devotion: prayers or religious observances Devoted to God: 1a: religious fervor: piety. b: an act of prayer or private worship—usually used in plural during his morning devotions. c: a religious exercise or practice other than the regular corporate (see corporate sense 2) worship of a congregation. There are many times while reading the Bible that I need to look up definitions. Depending on the version, I may use that dictionary more than others. Why do I look up the definitions? The evil one will try to confuse us just as he did with Jesus. (Example: The context of Psalms 91 is deliverance into the Kingdom. The salvation that will come at the 2nd coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. Satan tried to tempt the Lord in Matthew 4 by quoting this verse. While the verse is the truth of God, it is not the truth for the 1st coming of the Lord. He came the first time to suffer and die. Dispensationally the verse applies to the 2nd coming. So, Satan knows how to use God’s Word and to confuse people by not applying it to the right dispensation. - by Grace Bible Church) As I read, I have a study Bible next to me. All too often, we are taught to memorize scripture so that we can use it when we need it. We may need it at times when we are anxious, sick, hurt, broken, lonely, or being tested. We can and should also use it when we are thankful, happy, sharing the word, and feeling blessed. Now I want to answer the question as to whether I am devoted to God. I try every day to devote my day to God. I pray for wisdom and direction, asking God to show me what He wants me to do each day. Prayer continues throughout the day by myself and with Craig. I am devoted to God, and yet, each day, I need to pray when I feel the struggle of spiritual warfare. It is real; it is powerful, and yet I know one verse that lets me know God is always with me. “What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31 NKJV) YES, I am devoted to God because He is devoted to all of us. He is the one and only God who loves us more than we know. Thank you, God, Amen!
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