Faith On Every Corner - September 2020

Ready for Fall?

September 2020

As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. -Psalm 42:1

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

COVER PHOTO

BY DONNA KAICH GARRETT Donna began her love for photography back in the 1990s, but as a full-time Realtor found it difficult to pursue her passion. It wasn’t until the summer of 2018, while on a two-week camping trip to Olympic National Park, that she had the time to learn the craft.

Pam Atkins, an amazing photographer and friend, graciously and patiently began the journey of accompanying Donna and teaching her all about the camera settings and the eye of the photographer.

Donna loves to be outside and is a nature lover at heart, so naturally, she is drawn to photographing everything outdoors. Among her favorites are landscape photography and reflections. What she has found most rewarding is the time it allows her to get out and see God’s glory in all that is around us from wildlife reserves, wetlands, and national parks to learn about the birds and animals that live there; she finds memorizing all their names challenging. As a Realtor, she understood the need for professional photography, which led to her learning the techniques of Real Estate photography. Many fellow Realtors call upon her to take photos of their listings to help promote them for sale. Donna is happily married to her David, her husband of 23 years, and has 4 children and 2 grandchildren.

INSIDE COVER

NOTE FROM THE EDITOR I have seen posts recently wanting to rush through 2020 and move forward. It reminded me of something my grandfather said to me when I was a young girl. We were talking and I said, “I wish it was Friday.” My grandfather, a man of few words, looked at me and said, “Karen, don’t ever wish your life away. It goes by too quickly.” I think that is a good lesson. We need to be grateful for every minute and priase God for the time He gives us. There is something good in every minute.

We would like to encourage you to take time in our magazine. The magazine is filled with writers/believers who took the time to tell us a story or relate and share experiences with us.

This month is packed full of stories, we our welcome new writers and share reviews of books that we have read.

Did you know that Craig and I are the only two members of our staff? We develop, produce, publish, distribute, and market our magazine and bring it to you free each month. An average staff for a magazine our size and with the reach we have is 18 people. It is a lot of work and we are so blessed and thankful God gave us this ministry.

Karen

and C

raig R

uhl

Faith On Every Corner’s free monthly digital magazine is now read in over 65 countries. We love hearing from you!

Please take the time to share our link.

You can also download the magazine and read it at your leisure or email to a friend. Help us reach the world and share the good news of Christ Jesus.

Sharing the good news around the world.

If you would like to talk to a Team Member with Faith On Every Corner, please drop an email to team@faithoneverycorner.com. We are praying for you and love each of our readers.

Blessings. ~ Karen

KAREN RUHL

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Reflection...

by Karen Ruhl

Have you ever thought about your reflection? Not the one you see in the mirror or when you look into the water. I am talking about how people see you. Do your actions reflect what is in your heart?

As in water face reflects face, So a man’s heart reveals the man. -Proverbs 27:19 NKJV Oh how I hope that I reflect my love for Jesus and that I am able to share the good news to many around the world. I haven’t done anything on my own, it is all about Him. Do I reflect that in my actions? Do you?

“So all of us who have had that veil removed can see and reflect the glory of the Lord - who is the Spirit makes us more and more like Him as we are changed into His glorious image.” 2 Corinthians 3:18 NKJV When we gaze at the nature of God with unveiled minds, we can become more like Him. As our knowledge deepens, the Holy Spirit helps us change. We become more Christlike and reflect His ways through our actions.

There is another kind of reflection, it is when we take time to reflect on what the words of the Bible mean.

It is great to memorize verses. We are told to memorize and keep them in our hearts so we can use them against any spiritual attack. But...yes, but, this is not really learning or understanding the meaning of the verse. For that, you have to dig deeper, to pray over 4PAGE | M3 AG A Z I N E N A M E

what you are reading, and to find a good study Bible.

There is nothing like spending time in worship, praise, and reading the word.

Reflecting on the word takes serious thought, it takes time. While you are reflecting on His word, pray and talk to Him. Ask for your eyes to be open as you read or listen to the word.

We all have different schedules and body clocks. With mobile devices, we have the Bible at our fingertips.

You can reflect on God’s word anywhere you choose.

As I type this, the words to Green Eggs and Ham come to mind. I think I will take a little creative licensse and change them a bit.

Where do you like to reflect on God’s word?

I would read them on a box.

Probably not with a fox.

I would read them in a house.

Definitely not with a mouse.

I would read them here or there.

I would read and share them anywhere.

Just keep in mind that we want to be a reflection of Christ Jesus to those who do not know Him. I am praying for you. ~Blessings, Karen Team@faithoneverycorner.com

TABLE OF CONTENTS

FACEBOOK

Cover photo by Donna Garrett.

Read Donna’s bio and see more photos on the inside cover.

IN THIS ISSUE

F O L LO W U S

Reflection by Karen Ruhl ... page 3 Being Engaged Is Hard by Amy Goodwin ... page 5 Truth and Freedom by Andrea Marino ... page 9 You Matter by Angela Woodard ... page 11 The Power of My Testimony by Gittel Fruma ... page 13 Forever Student by Nicole Byrum ... page 15 Packing, Moving, Lost, Found and Trash Bags By Melissa Henderson ... page 16 The Recluse by Pam McCormick ... page 19 Easily Overlooked by Tynea Lewis ... page 21 Blessings Upon Blessings by Kelly Garcia ... page 22 Back to School Just Seems Different This Year by Scott Dunn ... page 23 Homeschooling Bliss by Lynn Downham ... page 25 Dear Carl by Anna Friend ... page 27 In My Prayers by Craig Ruhl ... page 29 Where the Church Missed It by Joseph Akinrinola ... page 31 Enduring The Process by Jessie Garcia ... page 35 Life’s Storms Are Only Temporary by Cindy Oriol ... page 37 True Words in the Wrong Spirit by Kelly Garcia ... page 39 Pick Up the Phone by Gabriell Larson ... page 41 Rejoice In Every Moment by Dr. Colleen Arnold ... page 43 Eldera by Donna Miller ... page 45 A New Season of Hope by Lorrie Manosh ... page 47 Want A Cookie by Pam Walck ... page 49 Here Am I by Yvonne Morgan ... page 51 Book Reviews Broken Hedges by Janice Njie Page 7 Million Dollar Seed by Pastor Allen Brown Page 17 Reviewed by CraigRuhl ROAD TRIPPIN’/WINSTOM-SALEM PAGE 33

By Karen Ruhl

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Being Engaged Is Hard y

By Amy Goodwin

Amy Goodwin is a blogger and writer at graceandrecovery.com. Her mission is to communicate the reality of life and grace in Christ to those trapped in their habits, addictions, and mental illnesses.

I thought being engaged would be the happiest time in my life.

patterns haven’t changed nearly as much as I thought.

“But whose image are you buying into?” my trusted friend and mentor asked me. Engagement has been the most revealing time of my life. I see how selfish I am. I see how faulty some of my thinking is. I see how stubborn I am. I cry all the time.

It seems there is always something that comes up, and in these last few months leading up to the wedding, I’m realizing how unprepared I am.

I thought my addictive personality and beliefs about myself were not an issue, but it has taken a serious toll on my relationship. However, I now realize that my issues aren’t because I’m engaged but because I am a sinner.

My future husband is seeing the nitty-gritty details of my life. He sees all my flaws, and because he is a good man, he lovingly calls it out in me.

Change is hard, though. Changing a mindset, I’ve taken peculiar comfort in for so long feels nearly hopeless. Jerry sees my sin. I can’t pretend to be perfect with him. My fiancé is so patient and loving with me, but I am loved in a way I’m not accustomed to. He calls me out when he sees me engaging in thoughts or actions that aren’t healthy, even when he knows it will upset me or cause tension. My mentor pointed out to me that the self-worth issues I am currently addressing will have to be dealt with at some point, whether or not I was engaged. I’m blessed enough to be with a man who gently calls me out.

I am filled with excruciating sadness as I realize how different engagement is from how I always imagined, but I’m met with even deeper sadness at the realization that there is so much growth within me that still needs to happen. I feel stuck.

I am so selfish and self-deprecating, and it hurts others, not just me. I always thought my attitude about taking care of my physical health only affected me, but I was so wrong. I got sober over two years ago, yet there are still ways that I neglect my body’s needs and treat myself carelessly.

It is a slap in Christ’s face when I don’t take care of myself and neglect to treat my body as the temple and the reflection of Christ I am called to be. Maybe the substance I used has been out of my life for over two years, but the mindset and 6PAGE | M5 AG A Z I N E N A M E 3

We cannot hold Ignorance and growth in the same hand. Sometimes I feel like a problem child, a burden, or simply a woman weighing him down.

When I begin to question my worth, I start spiraling, and I’ve been doing a lot more of that lately.

It’s overwhelming and so disheartening. I want to change. I want to be challenged. I want to continue to grow, but it hurts. I don’t like how painfully aware I am of all my flaws right now. I was told today that being sanctified isn’t an overnight process. Well, dang it! It would be a lot easier if it were.

God’s grace is sufficient for me, AND His sufficiency looks different from my expectation of His sufficiency.

I love my future husband with all of my heart, so when I examine how adverse I am to changing some of my ways, I get angry at myself. He doesn’t deserve this. The me who got sober over two years ago doesn’t deserve this either. I became complacent and comfortable, and as a result, I stopped trying to grow, which has come back to bite me in the butt. It’s time to take steps forward and choose facts over my ever-changing and oh-so-sensitive emotions.

This discouragement I’m experiencing — this “misery” as I’ve described it — isn’t because of my relationship, it’s because I’m being forced to confront the sin in my life that I’ve used as a cushion for the longest time.

Good grief! Accepting reproof and dying to myself is overwhelming, but we aren’t called to tasks that Christ won’t help us with, and today I’m clinging desperately to that truth.

You can read Amy’s blog at: https://graceandrecovery.com/

Being engaged hurts. I’m challenged in ways I never thought I would be, and I cry now more than ever. Despite all this, God continues to guide Jerry and me to forge this path and keep pushing on. Jerry continues to point me to Christ repeatedly. I’ll be honest, though, sometimes I tire of it. The endless conversations about these topics wear me out. Sometimes I wish I could sweep it all under the rug, but that isn’t loving. Jerry wouldn’t be leading well if he didn’t challenge me on things I’m doing that are hurting myself and dishonoring the life God has given me.

I’ve gained a small glimpse of how terrifyingly difficult marriage will be, but when I stop to think about life without Jerry, I can’t. He’s there. So, loving him (and myself and God) requires sacrifice, not just once, but repeatedly. It means dying to myself, picking up my cross, and following Christ in the practice of Biblical submission. It means acting “as if” even if I don’t want to.

I feel like I’ve been having an identity crisis lately.

Desires and goals I once had have shriveled up. I changed the path I was on, and nothing is going the way I expected about a year ago. Where have my passions gone? I’m ready to rediscover all that God has called me to do. The life I set up for myself, the images and expectations I had created, fall short compared to God’s design.

Walking with Christ demands a willingness to sacrifice whatever identities I build for myself. I just want to look like Christ. His ways are always higher than mine.

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Faith On Every Corner Bookshelf ​

Broken Hedges

By Janice Njie Reviewed by Craig Ruhl I enjoyed reading Broken Hedges by Janice Njie. She does an outstanding job explaining our fallen world and the spiritual warfare that has been going on since God created the world. By including specific scripture references to support her writing, the author aids our understanding of God’s plan for mankind and how we can best protect ourselves from evil.

I recommend Broken Hedges to anyone wishing to enrich their understanding of spiritual warfare and God’s provision for protecting those who believe in Him. The team at Faith On Every Corner is pleased to place Broken Hedges by Janice Njie on our Bookshelf.

You can purchase Janice’s book by clicking on the link below:

Broken Hedges

We have now opened up our newest addition, the Faith On Every Corner Bookshelf. If you have a book you would like us to review and feature, please call or email Craig at 828-305-8571 for information. Email: Team@faithoneverycorner.com

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Broken Hedges by Janice N. Njie is available at Amazon.com Click the book cover to go directly to this book.

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Truth and Freedom

By Andrea Marino

In the words of the ultimate Teacher, “Everything is absolute futility.” Ecclesiastes 1:2. I believe underneath all of man’s searching is a hunger to know the meaning of life and his purpose in living. The book of Ecclesiastes depicts the journey to making this discovery. Apart from God, life will always come up short, our existence amounting to meaningless - a “chasing after the wind.”

God is the vine; we are the branches. John 15:5.

Our survival depends on God, our very breath coming from Him. Not until seeing the fallacy of thinking we can make it on our own do we come to know anything of value. And while there are successful people who appear to have all the answers, after all is said and done, it is God’s words that will stand forever, prove to be true, and satisfy the basic hunger within a soul.

2 Samuel chapters 13-19 tells of a sequence of catastrophic events for King David’s son, Absalom, who strays from the ways of God. Enraged over the rape of his sister by his brother, which his father

does not avenge, instead chooses to forgive, Absalom arranges for the death of this brother. Absalom then revolts against King David and attempts to overthrow his throne. When David learns about the conspiracy, which involves his personal advisor, Ahithophel, (grandfather of the raped sister), David flees for his life. Climbing the slope of Mt Olives in distress over the entire situation, he cries out, “Lord, please turn the counsel of Ahithophel into foolishness!”. These words impressed me, regarding the false information, instigating fear, that is flowing over the airwaves today.

Deception is the act of causing a person to accept as true what is actually false. Today, more and more, people are being subjected to manipulation and control based on lies. Jesus warned His followers to test “the spirits” behind every teaching we hear, 1 John 4:1. We must take every thought captive, aligning each to what is written in the Scriptures, lest we fall to the deception of the mind-blinding spirit from the god of this world. 2 Corinthians 4:4.

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David’s kingdom is restored after Absalom’s death, which happened when his head was caught in a tangled branch of a large oak tree. Our heads can get tangled up in some ungodly thoughts if we are not careful.

When David was given the news that the Lord had delivered him from all those rising up against him and that Absalom was dead, he wept in anguish.

“My son Absalom! My son, Absalom! If only I had died instead of you,” 2 Samuel 33. I see a correlation between David’s heartfelt cry and what Jesus did. He died for us, died in our place. Bearing the entire weight of sin - suffering in His body for all of it- He undid the curse that results in death. If we choose to make Jesus our Savior and Lord, we will have victory over the grave. The teachings of Jesus are 100% accurate, absolutely reliable, and grant wisdom to see beyond the futility and monotony of life. “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with My own eye.” Proverbs 32:8. What a promise!

Please email her at rapture927@aol.com and visit her FB page, In The Way Everlasting.

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

I am grateful for the revelation God is allowing to take place at this time. He is exposing devilish schemes far too long hidden! (See Luke 12:2). As well, I am praying against the ‘spirit of Ahithophel’that all foolish counsel be halted so that many will know the Lord. The ultimate Teacher in the book of Ecclesiastes concludes the matter with: “fear God and keep His commands, because this is for all humanity. For God will bring every act to judgement, including every hidden thing, whether good or evil.”

With a yearning to uncover the secret to life at a young age, Andrea embarked on a journey to discover the truth. The study of Psychology proved inadequate, while the forces of darkness were making their presence known. The Hobble, from Ai to Bethel encompasses the author’s personal victory over fear and feeling like a ‘lessen than’ woman. Passionate about God’s Good News in Jesus, Andrea desires to encourage people to never lose hope. Truth begins with a decision to get out of the land of ruin. 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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I was at everyone’s beck and call. When they said, “Jump!” I was that person asking, “How high?” The more I did for them, the more they wanted, the more exhausted I became, the harder I worked for that imaginary goal of love I would never receive.

The only thing that saved my sanity and my life was my love and deep, heartfelt desire to please God. He saw my hand sticking up out of that mud pit and yanked me out. He did pull me out, but I was still filthy and covered in mud. That’s the beauty of God. He takes us exactly how we are—mud and all.

YO U M AT T E R

BY A N G E L A W O O D A R D Do you feel worthless and stuck because of your past and what others think of you? Have you ever thought about how you feel about yourself?

He delights in the journey of cleaning us off.

He uses situations in our lives to teach us. All the while, we learn about His character, His goodness, and His love. A little more mud comes off, then a little more, until finally, our eyes are cleaned off and we can look back and see how far He’s brought us.

You matter and what is in you matters.

Can I tell you something that will blow your mind?

Even flowers that seem to have no purpose have a purpose in God’s plan. He has a plan and purpose for you. He planned you before you existed! Psalm 139:16 (TPT)

What you think about yourself is not always the whole truth.

He took His time creating you! Psalm 139:1415 (TPT) says,

It took me 35 years to realize this.

I thank you, God, for making me so mysteriously complex!

I always felt like an alien from another planet. As a child, sometimes I wondered if I was adopted (I wasn’t, by the way). I always felt different. Since I felt different, I acted different and others treated me like I was different. The bullying and rejection I went through in school built a foundation in me of feeling both unloved and undervalued. I didn’t see a need in standing up for myself or having any boundaries that mattered. This twisted view of myself quickly became an enemy of my destiny.

I was a slave to others’ needs and desires, hoping for a crumb of love from them. I thought I was on the earth to help others meet their goals. Mine didn’t matter.

Everything you do is marvelously breathtaking.

(This means YOU are breathtaking!)

It simply amazes me to think about it!

How thoroughly you know me, Lord! (v.14) (He knows everything about YOU! He is crazy about YOU! Why else would the Creator of the universe know YOU, inside and out?)

You even formed every bone in my body When you created me in the secret place, carefully, skillfully shaping me from nothing to something. (v.15) 12 | M AG A Z I N E N A M E PAGE 3 11

(He stopped and took the time to form and create YOU, ever so carefully!)

It stands to reason, if He took that much care in creating you, then the gifts He put in you are important!

You have dreams. You have a purpose. You have a destiny.

I am so thankful that God, in His mercy and love for me, plucked me up out of that mud pit. It is so important to think about how you think about yourself. Don’t let lies and past experiences dictate your value. In fact, God thinks you are worth dying for. Jesus died for you—for you to be set free (John 3:16).

I challenge you to think about your view of yourself and see if it agrees with what God says in His word. Revisit those dreams you thought were dead or meaningless and ask Him how to step into them. You were created for greatness. God put dreams and desires into everyone.

The harvest is plentiful! (Matthew 9:37-38) I pray God shows you in this harvest season how important and valuable you are to Him for His harvest!

You matter.

“But ask the animals, and they will teach you, or the birds in the sky, and they will tell you; or speak to the earth, and it will teach you, or let the fish in the sea inform you. Which of all these does not know that the hand of the LORD has done this? In his hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind. ~Job 12:7-10 NKJV

Angela Woodard discovered her love of writing while completing her studies in ministry and discipleship, graduating with honors from Liberty University in 2015. Since that time, she’s enjoyed blogging, editing, copywriting, ghostwriting, teaching, and starting a business. Her passion is to tell others about who God is and what He’s done in her life. You can read more of her writings here https://thewarriorsway01.weebly.com/.

Angela and her husband reside near the Blue Ridge Mountains in South Carolina.

Photos by Karen Ruhl

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THE POWER OF MY TESTIMONY

by Gittel Fruma Hope.

It’s a precious treasure, is it not? Hope gives us permission to dream. It assures us that we will make it. It drives us to work for a better future. It invests in ashes. Hope sustains us. Of all the audacious, illogical, ludicrous things I have ever done in my life, the greatest of them has been to hope.

The word of God says in Revelations 12:11 that at the end of time, satan will eventually be defeated by “the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.” I have no part in the blood of Jesus, other than to accept it. Jesus did that work and there is nothing left for me to do. But I have full control over the word of my testimony and there is power in it.

When I share what God has done and is doing in my life, I am accessing one of the greatest sources of power in the universe. As Psalm 126 says, “The Lord has done great things for us; we are glad.”

These great things are my finished testimonies. My ark of remembrance holds gleaming, brilliant gems from the past, the completed works that God has done. He has brought healing, reconciliation, provision, salvation, and more. He has done wonders upon wonders for me. These are my manna, preserved, so I might remember what God has brought me through.

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I take out these gems and show them to people. I show them to my son. I show them to my unsaved family. I show them to those around me who are struggling. I turn them around in my hands, letting the light pass through all of their facets. Each of their glittering hearts holds a piece of God’s splendor. These were all ashes, but now they are all beauty. These are my polished testimonies.

There is another box of testimonies, though.

This one is shoved into a corner. The contents of the box are raw and disorganized.

Some of its innards are so painful, I can’t allow myself to look at them. This haphazard container holds the testimonies in progress.

They are ugly. They are embarrassing. Sometimes they feel like betrayal.

We are constantly confronted with the evidence of darkness in this world. We struggle with sickness, poverty, grief, loneliness, hunger, hostility, and loss. None of us is immune to the fallen nature of our world.

Sometimes, I want to hide my box of brokenness. I don’t want others to see me bleed when I pick up its jagged pieces. I don’t want to appear vulnerable or weak. I don’t want to show people that everything isn’t finished yet. What if it leads people to think God isn’t faithful? What if it makes people question what I say I believe? What if things will always be this way? How can I face this reality?

I live in this box right now. I will always live in this box. This present box of hardship is my lot. I say it without bitterness because it is a simple truth. I will live in this world until I leave it. Until then, I will toil on this earth as I was meant to. I cannot be upset that there is darkness in a world in which I am meant to be light. Thus, I have a decision to make. I can either despair at its current state or glory in its future one.

My choice, when couched in those terms, is clear: If I live in soot, you can call me Cinderella.

No one wants to live through trying times.

No one wants to be healed from cancer after years of treatment. No one wants to find a godly husband after enduring abuse.

No one wants to finally pay off their house after experiencing debt and scarcity. No one wants to live through the beginning of those stories. People want the end. But everyone wants to hear those stories because they bring hope. Someone has to live through those stories, so others can experience hope.

If you are living through trials or hardship, you are living through the beginning of a great testimony.

“He raises up the poor from the dust; he lifts the needy from the ash heap to make them sit with princes and inherit a seat of honor.

For the pillars of the earth are the Lord’s, and on them he has set the world.” - 1 Samuel 2:8

My ark holds beautiful things. My box holds broken things. I have watched countless times as God has taken something heartbreakingly hideous from my box and transformed it before my eyes into something worthy of my ark.

I don’t know about you, but I serve a magnificent God. He does the implausible. He moves the immotile. He raises the lifeless. To what is futile, he brings purpose. To what is foolish, he brings prudence. To what is failed, he brings prosperity. And everything is in His hands.

Testimonies, even those in progress, have power. They are stories without endings.

God’s power will be manifested through them in the soon and not yet. Hope tells me that the dissonance in my life will resolve. At some fixed point in the future, each testimony will be as dazzling as all its predecessors. I don’t need to know when that point is, I just need to know it’s out there. Until I reach it, I hope.

I choose hope. That elusive, illustrious, resplendent substance which makes all things possible is my elixir. I drink it in, knowing there is more than enough. I share it because its distribution brings multiplication and its application brings increase. Like love and faith, it is contagious. And it is wholly independent of my circumstance, situation, or success.

Hope has but one requirement for it to function. You must do it with confidence.

You must know that things will be better, and they will be good. Whether or not there is evidence, reason, or sense in hoping, you must hope. The more impossible your situation, the more incredible your testimony.

Gittel Fruma came to believe in Jesus after growing up as an Orthodox Jew. Gittel lives with her husband and son in Clearwater, Florida. She is currently working on a book about her testimony and recording her first album. You can find her at her website GittelFruma.com or on Facebook at @GittelFrumaMusic.

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FOREVER A STUDENT

by Nicole Byrum I am a therapist and writer who is passionate about family, faith, and recovery. I am the author of Remade: Living Free, a book that explores topics related to substance abuse, recovery, and unhealthy relationships from a biblical perspective.

Few things stand out in my memory like those first days of a new school year. Whether in elementary, high school, or beyond, the energy and anticipation of each September were unmatched by any other time in the year. Everything from school supply shopping to picking out the “first-day outfit” was electric. The beginning was always such fun.

However, as with most things, the newness quickly faded, and the grind of learning came on in full force. When I think back to some of the classes I took in high school and college, I can’t help but feel some twinges of regret.

If only I would have cared more about history, government, and philosophy. If only I would have soaked in a little more knowledge. If only I had paid more attention.

The good news is life is not all or nothing! Let me explain. A few years ago, during a conversation with a friend, the topic of reading was mentioned. It astounded me when my friend, an avid reader, told me how many books she typically read in a month. I was so embarrassed because at that time I read about one book a year.

I decided then and there to set a goal for myself to read one book per month. That seemed both reasonable and attainable. Plus, the thought of reading 12 books in a year sounded good to me.

I am happy to say that over the last 3 years I have far exceeded that goal! Reading has brought so much joy to my life, and I am so grateful this passion has been ignited. My life has been enriched through the great works of Charles Dickens, Victor Hugo, Ernest Hemingway, and so many other fantastic authors of classic fiction. Their beautiful words and honest portrayal of humanity have engaged my emotions, challenged my thinking, and guided my writing.

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I have also enjoyed reading books of topical interests as well as biographies. I have learned more than I ever did in school about the founding of our nation and eras such as the 1960s and 1970s. I have read books about Dolly Parton, Ben Carson, Willie Nelson, Mother Teresa, Steven Tyler, and Winston Churchill. Currently, I’m enjoying a book about the life of Theodore Roosevelt. These individuals are all so different from one another! Yet, I have learned not only about them but something from each of them.

The third reading category I have welcomed into my life is theology. From Jonathan Edwards and John Calvin to twentieth-century heroes such as C. S. Lewis and A. W. Tozer, to present theologians R. C. Sproul and John Piper, these amazing men have authored the books that have deepened my faith and increased my affections for my Creator and Savior. I am forever indebted to them, for their written words have been a magnificent gift to my life.

It amazes me that the last three paragraphs would likely not have happened if not for a casual conversation with a friend. I would have missed so much richness. But as I said, praise God, life is not “all or nothing!” Although I regret not fully embracing my earlier education in the past, I can make use of the time in the present to fill my mind and heart with beautiful words, knowledge, and truth. Truly, it is never too late to become and remain - a student.

Melissa Henderson is a writer of inspirational messages. Her first book for children, “Licky the Lizard”, was released in 2018. She also has a story in the compilations “Heaven Sightings” and “Remembering Christmas.” Her passions are helping in community and church. Melissa is an Elder, Deacon, and Stephen Minister. She and her husband, Alan, moved from Virginia to South Carolina to be near her son, daughter-in-law and first grandchild. The family motto is “It’s Always A Story With The Hendersons”.

Follow Melissa on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and at http://www.melissaghenderson.com

Packing, Moving, Lost, Found and Trash Bags

By Melissa Henderson My husband and I are moving again. My sisters say they need a new address book for all the times we’ve moved over the years. This time, the move should be permanent, but who knows? We’ve lived in this area of South Carolina for three years and have decided we like the neighborhood.

Instead of renting, we are purchasing a home.

Everything is on one floor, so there is no need to worry about steps. Arthritis in my back does not like too many steps.

You would think that as many times as we have moved, we would have a system in place. Yes, we downsize each time and can’t believe how much “stuff” still finds the way to our house. So now we sit with boxes packed and taped shut, hoping not to need anything in those particular boxes.

searched box after box, trying to find my precious bears. No luck. Tears in my eyes and a frown on my face, I decided the bears were accidentally thrown out with the trash.

My precious husband drove back to the former house and opened every trash bag in the can. He tried to find the bears. Arriving at the new home defeated, he explained how the bears were not to be found.

More tears from me. Yes, the bears are just “things”, but they hold a special place in my heart.

The love and care that was given along with those bears helped me through dark times.

The conclusion was final. No more bears. We could buy new ones. They wouldn’t be the same.

The new house is ready. Documents will be signed soon, and the home will be ours.

The next day, we continued to unpack boxes and suitcases.

Last time we moved, there was an “incident” as we like to call it. Hoping and praying all will be well this time.

What a shock to open a suitcase filled with towels and washcloths and sheets and find a surprise!

Trevor and Pink Baby had been with us the whole time! Hiding in the suitcase. I must have put them in there so I wouldn’t lose them.

Two teddy bears sleep in the bed with Alan and me. Yes, I am a grown-up. Yes, I love collecting teddy bears. One bear named Trevor was given to me by my sweet Alan many years ago. The other bear was given to me by the Harris family (niece, nephew, and their children) years ago when I was going through my cancer journey. That bear is named “Pink Baby”.

When we moved last year, Trevor and Pink Baby disappeared. I was heartbroken. Alan and I

I will always be grateful to Alan for opening and searching through each trash bag, in hopes of finding my bears. What a great husband!

If you lose a precious item, pause, and pray. The item may or may not be found. Find comfort knowing the greatest gift is with God. Blessings, Melissa

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Faith On Every Corner Bookshelf ​

Million Dollar Seed

By Pastor Allen Brown Published by Build Our Kingdom Publishing Reviewed by Craig Ruhl The subtitle of Million Dollar Seed reads, “How Unusual Acts of Faith Produced Million Dollar Results.” When I first learned of this book, my impression was this may be a book centered on a “prosperity gospel” theology. I was pleasantly surprised to find it was so much more.

In this autobiography, Pastor Allen Brown shares his testimony of coming to Christ, hearing answers to his repeated prayers, and becoming a successful entrepreneur and pastor. The author tells the reader how his understanding of biblical truths and uncompromising faith in God, meshed with sound business practices, worked miracles in his life. His story encourages others who seek to find their way in the world of business while staying true to their faith.

Throughout the book, the author has provided special sections titled “Wisdom and Understanding Note” which provide teaching and clarification of the values and principles he used during his professional and spiritual growth. While writing about his business and spiritual life, Pastor Brown offers insights that apply to all areas of our lives. The seeds contained in this book need to be sowed by being shared with others.

Million Dollar Seed by Pastor Allen Brown is an excellent book and I recommend it highly.

The team at Faith On Every Corner is pleased to place Million Dollar Seed on our Bookshelf.

We have now opened up our newest addition, the Faith On Every Corner Bookshelf. If you have a book you would like us to review and feature, please call or email Craig at 828-305-8571 for information. Email: Team@faithoneverycorner.com 18 | M AG A Z I N E N A M E PAGE 3 17

Million Dollar Seed by Pastor Allen Brown is available at Amazon.com Click the book cover to go directly to this book.

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The Recluse

by Pam McCormick

Lord Jesus Christ, have mercy on me, a sinner.”

Luke 18:13 I was sure that God had abandoned me. I was sure that my time in the wilderness would never end. Did I create this great chasm between me and God by my unbelief? I cried out in anger in the wilderness, and God didn’t answer me. I had questions, “Why are You allowing this loneliness, this despair in my life?” I had heard people tell me God was for me, not against me, but my thoughts, my feelings were real and were overwhelming me more than God’s Truth. I gave up.

For nine months, I sheltered myself in a cave of my design. No one would know I was struggling.

I was adamant I would not be transparent. I would keep smiling and tell everyone I was fine, even if I wasn’t.

I believed everyone else was doing okay. I felt like the oddball out. I would pray for others and see God blessing them and questioned God, “Where are You? When will You answer my petitions?” When no answer came, I walked away from God. I listened to the lies of the enemy, that God had no good plans for me. And I cried and cried some more.

In Psalms 139:8, God’s Word says, “If I go up to the heavens, You are there; if I make my bed in the depths, You are there.” This Psalm verse, just one verse, I clung to.

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I thought I was too far gone. Oh, the tantrums I threw. Oh, the thoughts that I thought. Oh, how great the loneliness and despair, but God had seen my struggle to believe Him for me. I cried out to God to take me home. I didn’t have the strength or the desire to continue. I told God I couldn’t care about another person, because no one cared for me. Deeply entrenched in self-pity and thoughts that there was something terribly wrong with me, I asked God for a miracle. I cried myself to sleep.

In the early morning hours, I had a vision. I think I was still asleep. I saw God’s outstretched arm and hand pointing to a door. I noticed how muscular and strong His arm was. God was telling me He was strong enough, and if I would just trust Him, He would help me. Well, trusting God is an issue with me, but that’s good. It means it won’t be me getting myself out of this hole. It would be all God’s doing.

I haven’t told anyone about the vision except for my sister Judy. I was afraid. Who am I that the Creator of all the earth would come to me? But He did. I don’t know what‘s up ahead, but I think just being able to talk about where I was is the beginning of where God will take me.

Let me tell you what came of my time as a recluse. I discovered the depth of God’s love, the depth of His grace. I gave Him plenty of reasons to leave me where I was at, but that’s not Who God is. God had a plan, and it would be all God doing what I couldn’t do.

“If we are faithless, He remains faithful, for He cannot disown Himself.” 2 Timothy 2:13 I learned how good God is. I learned that He never, ever, will leave me or forsake me. I learned that a mountain of troubles could come against me, but He was there and would be there always.

I learned to rest in the arms of the Lord God Almighty. And I am writing again, not because I could, but because God willed it to happen.

Showing myself, being vulnerable is scary, but it is my hope and prayer that if anyone else ever experiences feelings like I have, that they would know God’s love is perfect for them too.

Dear God, thank You that You are there for the weary, the broken, the poor in spirit. Thank You, God, for Your never changing love. Thank You, God, for Your deliverance for me and others from thoughts and feelings that are not of You. Thank You, God, for Your amazing grace, to me, a sinner. You are great!

These song lyrics by Erin Elizabeth became especially precious to me during my wilderness experience. “Be still, my child. Fear not, trust Me. Be still My love, Rest in My peace. Be still.”

God still delivers people. The good that came was this. I have been looking for more people that feel lost and lonely, so I can tell them there is a God Who loves, and loves them, and never lets go.

On my worst days, God is the same as on my best days. God is soo good! Always!

“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present or the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God, that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:38-39

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Easily Overlooked

by Tynea Lewis Tynea Lewis is a teacher turned work-from-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),

Recently, I have enjoyed dabbling in photography. There’s something about capturing the beauty of what’s around you. There’s something about capturing a moment.

In the hustle and bustle of life, it’s easy to overlook the small things. It’s easy to keep moving forward instead of pausing to take in what is happening around us.

I do the same thing with people. Sometimes I’m quick to overlook the hearts of those who cross my path. I see them there, but I don’t take the time to invest in them. I don’t take the time to see the beauty within.

Photography has reminded me of the importance of highlighting what is often overlooked.

One evening, while my family and I were taking a walk, I noticed a bright purple flower on top of a thistle. Even though I knew it was a weed, the beauty and intricacy of the flower captured my attention. It would have been easy for me to focus on how that weed didn’t belong in the middle of the grass and how it should be pulled.

Often, we do the same thing with our lives. We try to remove the ugliness of the pain from the weeds in our own lives, but we overlook the beauty that can come from that pain.

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We want to remove moments in our lives, but we overlook how those experiences can minister to other people’s hearts in similar situations.

We need to turn our eyes on the beauty in the midst of the mess, and God is at the center of that beauty every time.

“He has made everything beautiful in its time.

He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end.” (Ecclesiastes 3:11 NIV) Those weeds reminded me that beauty is found everywhere. We just need to know where to look and be intentional in searching for it.

In the everyday moments, there is beauty. Even in pain, there is beauty.

May we turn our eyes to the easily overlooked and find the beauty that others dismiss.

I pray for clarity to see all the things God is doing in each moment. May I also worry less about where I’m going and instead focus on what God is doing.

Blessing Upon Blessing

By Kelly Garcia

“Let’s stop by the beach for a little bit before we return to Arizona!”

To a California native, those words sing the song of the oceans’ tides in my soul. My body can imagine the sway of standing in the water that pulls and pushes and buries my feet in the sand.

I can hear the noise of the wind, the laughter of children, and the crashing of the waves on the shore. To the right and left of the Los Angeles beaches are piers stretching out into the ocean in front of me, and lifeguard towers standing like sentinels behind me. Over yonder, four hundred miles east, awaited the difficulties I briefly left behind on this quick errand to “the homeland,” so a side-trip to enjoy some delightful “soulfood” sounded wonderful.

Life sneaks up on you. The years progress and issues arise that you may or may not be able to handle, but for the love of God, you hold on the best you can and brave the bad times as long as there is a reprieve with some good times. Faith is a journey. I love those mountain-top experiences. It makes the desert experiences seem like a momentary affliction.

So here I stood in the ocean’s gentle tides, and I heard the Lord whisper to me. It sounded like He was saying: “Wave upon wave, Blessing upon Blessing.” I began to cry and ask Him why, why would He want to bless me? I didn’t get an answer, but I didn’t need one. The experience was unforgettable.

“Wave upon wave, blessing upon blessing” became a gentle song that would be the melody that my soul clung to instead of looking for vindication or resolution. Having Jesus as a companion, and His presence as my guide, was all the affirmation I would need to “press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:14) I speak and write in stories, displaying what I see through words that envelope the heart. The God of heaven and the people and the world He created are best enjoyed through eyes of excitement and hearts of wonder, so it is my joy to spend hours and days at a time allowing my pen to flow with such themes. I have thoroughly enjoyed my seasons of mothering and homeschooling my five children and babysitting my two grandchildren, and I might presently have more than one cat at my side. Visit my Blog at http:// godspeak.home.blog/2020/06/03/lets-rebuild/

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Back To School Just Seems Different This Year…

by Scott Dunn

Back to school. It’s something children dread. It’s also something they look forward to. They get to renew old friendships. They get to make new friendships every year. Going back to school is beautiful and frightening. Short of committing your life to Christ or getting married, I can think of no other event that is so full of joy and fear all at the same time.

This year is quite different though, isn’t it? The world is still in the clutches of a pandemic from a virus we do not fully understand. Businesses are going bankrupt, and schools are trying to make the best of it. Some schools are in full attendance like nothing is happening; others are opting for an A/B schedule, and lastly, we see many going fully remote.

Parents are faced with choices that are far more difficult than whether Ticonderoga #2 pencils are worth the extra cash or go with the cheaper generic #2 pencils (Hint: Ticonderoga wins). Parents must decide between the options schools are offering. Some are not offering but one choice. If that is full remote learning, the parent must find a way for their child to meet the demands of the school schedule or homeschool them. These are hard decisions our parents never had to make for 24 | M AG A Z I N E N A M E PAGE 3 23

us. I’m not going to suggest a path for you; we all must find the right fit for our circumstances.

Speaking as a parent, our family has been blessed with the ability to keep our jobs through all of this and to be able to work from home. Our kids will be working remotely, and that means we, the parents, have some extra responsibility in their education this year. I have faith that the teachers will cover their actual education, so my goal is to show them what school teaches them outside of their curriculum. The truth is, I know more about the other qualities they don’t realize they are getting than I do their curriculum.

Our kids are learning great things about presidents and math and science but focus on the life skills that they are learning too. School teaches them things like respect and responsibility and loving their neighbor. They do not realize these things are happening, do you as a parent see it?

With children learning remotely, you as a parent must be on your A-game with responsibility here.

Schools teach your children things like; • Being to class on time • Getting up on time • Dressing for success (even remotely our children are being asked to dress as they would for school, and I think this is a fantastic idea) • Turning work in on time • Keeping commitments and promises

Your child cannot do all those things without your help, so you must help them. The Bible commands this of you in 1 Timothy 5:8, “But if anyone does not provide for his own family, especially for his own household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.”

It is far easier to say than to do; I’m keenly aware of that. When I fail, I am open with my children about it. Discussing failure allows them to understand and see why they must work towards success and why their discipline is not punishment but an opportunity to grow. The Bible promises that the fruit of your labors will be great. Proverbs 29:17 shows us our reward, “Discipline your child, and it will bring you peace of mind and give you delight.”

Your efforts as your children return to school are not for nothing. They matter to the parents and the children themselves in ways you may not fathom. Consider what Titus 2:2-5 tells us about the example we set for our children: “Older men are to be temperate, dignified, sensible, sound in faith, in love, in perseverance. Older women likewise are to be reverent in their behavior, not malicious gossips nor enslaved to much wine, teaching what is good, so that they may encourage the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, to be sensible, pure, workers at home, kind, being subject to their own husbands so that the word of God will not be dishonored.”

Going back to school is different this year, it’s not a daycare your kids go to. They are learning vital things. With many students being at home, we must support our schools as they evolve to help every child. They are not going to get it entirely right.

Consider how your interaction with the people who want to help your child will affect the view your child takes of their school.

If you are unsure about the right choice for their learning, start asking questions. Ask their teacher from last year how they learned best; they may have an insight you don’t know exists. Ask your child for their input; this teaches them decision-making skills! Most importantly, pray. God is a 24/7/365 resource of wisdom, love, and peace. Lean into that as our kids go back to school.

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

HOMESCHOOLING BLISS

By Lynn Downham

You’ve heard it said that you can only really help others based on your own personal experiences. As I’ve found this to be true, I offer you mine relating to the whole pandemic school conversation.

Before we adopted our infant daughter, I had never heard of homeschooling. My brothers and I were products of public schools and we didn’t know, nor did our mother, that there was any other choice. Our mother was a teacher and sometimes substituted while we were in elementary school. Later, when we were in high school, she ran a wonderful school for 3 to 5-year-olds and taught them as opposed to just babysitting them. My grandmother was also a teacher “par excellence” and besides teaching in the public schools, she would teach me when we visited in Pennsylvania every year, mainly French as I recall!

This is the way it was, the way it always had been, (we thought), and the way it would always be, (we also thought).

We are in the last days brothers and sisters.

And although we do indeed “see through a glass darkly,” there is One who sees perfectly well. We know Him and His name is God the Father, the Son, Jesus the Christ, and the Holy Spirit, our guide and comfort in this world. So, whatever He guides you to do with respect to your children’s education, know that He has a plan that is right 26 | M AG A Z I N E N A M E PAGE 3 25

for you.

Homeschooling as our option has been a magnificent blessing to our family. The bond between us and our daughter is beautiful. I am learning so much that I never learned in public school because you can go into so much more depth homeschooling than you can in public school. We are able to pass on our faith to her. She has been brought up to know the Lord. Her curriculum is geared to her and her strengths and weaknesses.

We get to be out in nature a lot! She has wonderful friends and gets along with anyone regardless of age. She plays tennis wonderfully. She is a sculptor. Her test scores are amazing. We have identified and are identifying her gifts. It is SO much FUN. (And Grandma, who now lives right beside us, loves it! Says she would have homeschooled us if she’d known about it!)

The art for this article was not hard! It is an illustration from The Mouses, my book about a family of homeschooling mice who lead a community of curious ladybugs to salvation. You know that artists put a lot of themselves into their art. The book is a lot of fun and is written in rhyme and has a sequel coming out called The Mouses’ Holiday Book. You can find it on Amazon or contact me through our website: www. livingwaterartworks.com

“One thing I have desired of the Lord, That will I seek: That I may dwell in the house of the Lord All the days of my life, To behold the beauty of the Lord, And to inquire in His temple.

For in the day of trouble He shall hide me in His pavilion;...”

Psalm 27:4,5

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Carl’s mom writes him letters occasionally. Carl is her only child. Carl’s father died when he was in college. Living in the Arizona, Carl calls his Mom in the Carolinas as often as he can on Sundays. Carl’s mom is in her 80s. She lives in a contemporary world with old fashioned values.

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DEAR CARL

Anna Friend

Dear Carl, The summer air is less humid here in the Carolinas. The neighbors are already decorating their porches with pumpkins. We are all welcoming change from this summer, which has proven to be stifling in many ways. Well enough about the weather. I sound like an old man. School has started, but all is dreadfully quiet. Not many buses delivering children down the road. It is a new way of learning for most of them. Preacher Larry has asked us to pray for the students in our county. He reminded us of how we are to love them like Jesus and that we could learn much from them. He spoke about humility and optimistic faith. I guess we adults could all use a little “Back to School” with children as our teachers. Life this year has induced some pessimism.

I must share my experience at the local IGA. I have not been shopping much. I had little Sarah, from church, shop for me the last several months. On occasion, I would go for the ride and sit in the car.

However, with Shirley feeling better and chomping at the bit to get out, we take quick grocery shopping trips weekly. The first time we went she had her thin hair wrapped in a turban and wore large, black-rimmed Hepburn sunglasses. She donned a mask, but her bright red lipstick still polished her lips. She is incredibly thin, but beautiful as ever. She prefers the more spendy store near the outside of town. She can get a fancy cup of coffee with whipped cream and the lovely smell of Christmas.

Yesterday, I wanted to stay in town. My favorite cashier with midnight fingernails and short spiky hair was there. When I came through the line, the poor dear stood staring at me. After a few long seconds, she loudly pronounced, “I thought you were dead!” The girl then proceeded to tell me she missed me just as exuberantly without skipping a beat. After pinching myself to make sure I had not died from embarrassment and carefully not fixating on her skull mask, I laughed and assured her this old bird is still pecking around. She thrust her arm at me to reveal a pretty little butterfly above her wrist. She complimented me on my hoop earrings and sent me on my way, but not without a chuckle and “glad you are not dead.” Shirley was mortified but more so jealous. I apparently wear “cool” earrings.

Well, I must tend to Sheba. The dear cat needs some attention, and if I’m honest, I need to hit the recliner. I easily tire these days. Please tell Donna my story about the cashier. I know it hurt her feelings that someone thought she was pregnant a few years back when she was not, but at least she was not looked at like a ghost. Learn from your grandchildren, son. They have such hope. Call me.

Love, Mom

“And calling to him a child, he put him in the midst of them and said, ‘Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.’” Matthew 18:2-4 (ESV)

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The Bible is the best source for learning how to pray, and the place to start is with how Jesus taught us to pray. Many of us learned The Lord’s Prayer as children. The following Bible verse is the basis of that prayer. Depending on the version of the Bible used, the wording will vary.

“He said to them, When you pray, say: ‘Father, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come.

Give us each day our daily bread. Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us.

And lead us not into temptation.’” Luke 11:2-4 (NIV) The next step is to determine how the Lord would have us pray for each other. Here are several Bible verses which give us further instruction: “And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.”

Ephesians 6:18 (NIV)

I N M Y P R AY E R S

by Craig Ruhl You are in my prayers. I just posted that response to a social media post from a family friend who asked for prayers for her and her family. There wasn’t a mention of what to pray for or even whom to specifically pray for. God knows who is in need and exactly what is being requested. Most of us who use social media receive these requests many times a day. How do we respond? What can we do to lift another person in prayer?

We tell each other, “I’ll keep you in my prayers,” or “I’ll pray for you.” But let me ask you a question before I continue; how often do you follow through on your promise? Do you write that prayer request down so you will remember to include it during your scheduled prayer time? Or do you stop what you are doing and immediately say a brief prayer? It is easy to make a promise or commitment to pray for another person and then not follow through with prayer. The number of prayers needed among family, friends, church family, work associates, and neighbors can overwhelm us. How are we to manage this part of our prayer life?

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“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”

James 5:16 (NIV) “In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness.

We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.” Romans 8:26 (NIV) When someone asks us to pray and we agree to pray, we are called to follow through and intercede on their behalf. To say we will pray while not intending to do so is being untruthful. Prayer is a serious matter, having a profound effect both on the one praying and the one being prayed for. Taking it lightly is a grave mistake and can have a devastating effect.

There are groups or circles of people who specifically join to pray. I like to call them Prayer Warriors. We can find them in churches, small groups, ministries, neighborhoods, and social media. Often, a need will arise, and they will put a call out for intentional prayer. The request quickly spreads, and faithful prayers are offered. We have the biblical assurance that when we pray in agreement with others, God in heaven will hear our prayers.

“Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven.” Matthew 18:19 (NIV) Over the years, I have been prayed for by people I didn’t even know. They lifted me up in prayer because of having received a request from their prayer partners on my behalf and then honoring that request. God heard those prayers and has performed many miracles in my life. There is no way for me to know how many times these prayer warriors have prayed for me during my lifetime, but God does!

How do we respond to prayer requests? It is easy to key “I’ll pray for you!” into a social media post, but unless we follow through with prayer, it is an empty promise. If we don’t immediately take the request to the Lord in prayer, we may lose the opportunity.

Since we can’t always stop what we are doing and enter into prayer, each of us must develop a method and habit for dealing with prayer requests. Throughout the Bible, we are taught that our prayer life is central to Christian living. Praying for others is not just a requirement, it is a blessing for the one praying and the recipient.

He kept a small notebook in his pocket where he recorded prayer requests throughout the day. He said that he would go back over the day’s requests before he went to bed, lifting each request in prayer. The Lord called Bruce home several years ago, but I know he is in heaven advocating for all the prayer warriors still on earth.

Please remember that we will not always know when or how prayer has been answered. Trust that God hears your prayers and will grant them in accordance with His will.

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NIV) Contact me at CraigRuhl@gmail.com if I can I pray for you today?

One way to organize specific requests that you can’t immediately pray about is to keep a prayer journal.

Add each prayer request as you receive it. Schedule a set time to go back and intentionally pray over each entry. You need not write out your prayer, although I know some people who like to do that. Leave a space where you can return later to record answered prayers. I like to use a paper journal and pen to track prayer requests. Many people find a digital prayer record works best for them. The method doesn’t matter as much as our faithfully honoring our promises to pray for each other. Full disclosure—I need to be much better at this!

One of the greatest prayer warriors I have ever met was a man from our church in California. Bruce would come next to you, ask you what was going on in your life, and if there was anything he could pray for.

Based on your reply, he would then put his hand on your shoulder and say, “Let’s take that to prayer right now.” He would pray right there, on the spot. His prayers were sincere and powerful.

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I am Joseph, an author, blogger, and content writer from Nigeria. In the field of writing, I deliver unique, grammatically correct and plagiarism-free content. Currently, I work with three online firms specializing in motivation, human capacity development, lifestyle, relationship, and spiritual writings.

Where The Church Missed It?

By Joseph Akinrinola Where the church did miss it?

How was the church then? (Acts 2:42-47)

Without mincing words, the church remains an institution to reckon with in most parts of the world.

The church wedges a great power in the political and economic landscape of most nations.

You will be treating the symptoms without addressing the sickness if you fail to carry out a diagnosis first. Therefore, we should look at the church in her glorious days. It is then we can know where the Church missed it.

You can see this visibly in the currency of America.

The inscription on the dollar note reads, “In God we trust.” The same goes for the House of Commons of the British Parliament where the Bible is one of the objects of the legislative proceedings.

Also, going through the Bible, especially the New Testament, the church will be the only institution when God will be done with the world at the rapture.

But does the current situation show the church is anywhere near God’s agenda for her? This is the crux of my discussion today. Without much ado, let me answer the question of where did the church miss it.

Understanding what church is: An average Christian understands the church is not the building, but the individuals that gather to worship God as saved souls. It is with this understanding I will address anyone who claims to be a Christian. This will include me. So interpreting the Greek word ecclesia (ekklesia), meaning the called out, it means those who are saved from the world, whose lives are patterned after Christ, and different from the standard of the world.

1. They had all things in common (unity). Unlike today where believers are divided along denomination, tribal, language, ethnic, and doctrinal lines, the early Church concentrated on what unites them rather than those things that divide them.

2. The Bible was their standard and Jesus their message.

3. To them, persecution and challenges are part of following Christ.

4. They lived daily with the awareness of the rapture. The disciples lived daily with the consciousness of either death or the rapture. That is why they would not compromise their faith.

5. They concentrated their energy on building people and not structures. They believed that if you build the people, the people will build the structure.

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Where and when the church did miss it?

Having seen where the Church was, let see the current position of the Church. This will show where the church missed it. This Bible passage reveals the state of the church now: 2 Timothy 3:1-7 1. When the Church changed her focus.

In those days, the song is, take away everything from me, but give me Jesus. But now let me get the best of the world first. Today, we have a blurred vision of eternity. We are concerned about now.

2. When we begin to build a terrestrial empire at the expense of our celestial home.

It is commonplace to compete to outwit one another by the size, cost, and design of our automobile, private jet, and cathedral. Do not get me wrong, wealth is good and God owns it. It will also make life and ministry easier.

Besides that, it shows the glory of God upon the believers. But it becomes a trap when it grabs our attention. In some countries, the government classifies the church as a profit-making venture. Thus, they are taxable like any other business.

Well, I do not know whether this is happening elsewhere, but I discovered churches have built schools with the offering and tithe from the members, yet most of the members cannot send their children to those schools because they cannot afford the tuition. It is as bad as that.

3. When we measure spirituality by achievement and status.

The church missed it when we began to measure the spirituality of a Christian or minister by his theological credentials or physical achievement.

Furthermore, concluding a person is right with God because of the number of miracles, healing, and deliverance happening through them.

More often than not, we consider someone successful in the ministry by the numerical strength and the popularity of his congregation. We screwed it up at this point. No wonder most ministers will do anything to be popular.

4. When sin is openly celebrated.

A few years ago, I heard a story of a church elder who was making some shady deals in his business. The story concludes; the person explained to his leaders the source of his wealth before they ordained him.

Today, ministers will fine-tune their message to accommodate just anybody and anything. We give honors and awards to people of a questionable character because we want to swell our attendance and pocket.

5. When liberty becomes an abuse I do not know other words that have been more bastardized by Christians than grace and mercy.

Today, Christians will leave what they are supposed to do undone praying for God’s grace.

Similarly, we indulge in sinful habits under the cover of the grace of God. Yes, God is gracious and merciful, yet he is not foolishly merciful.

What is the remedy?

Jesus, the owner of the church, never leaves us without a way out. That was the reason for his letters to the seven churches in Asia Minor.

Revelation 2, 3 Apart from the Philadelphia Church who had a clean bill of health, the other churches represent our pitiable situation today. What was the central theme? Think, turn, and thrive on the legacy left

by Jesus and as followed by the early fathers of the faith.

I would like to close with these statements from Apostle Paul to all of us, “if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall!” 1 Corinthians 10:12 (NIV)

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Local Road Trippin’ Winston-Salem, NC

by Karen Ruhl I have probably mentioned in previous issues about the North Carolina mural trail. The murals are everywhere around the state and capture the culture, history, and beauty of the area.

We have been in Winston-Salem in the past and have seen the artwork on the walls around town.

There is a beautiful art park in downtown where you can see the murals and sculptures shown on the left page. It is a small park, and one that the locals enjoy while walking to and from work, restaurants, and also just to sit and enjoy life on one of the benches.

The most interesting part of our trip was going to Old Salem. I was moved by the history of the church pictured above. It was a church built for the enslaved and freed black Morovians. There is a trail in the back of the church that tells a story as well. Really a great place to visit to get some perspective on our history.

St. Phillips Morovian Church

If you are in the area, be sure to visit Winston Salem and go to Old Town Salem. The homes are beautiful, some built in the 1700s. You can walk down historic streets, what a blessing.

Here is a link to tell you more about the town.

Enjoy your virtual road trip.

Old Salem

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34

Enduring the Process

by Jessie Garcia My six-year-old son believes that recording himself and uploading it on the internet will make him famous. He doesn’t know the reality of what it takes to become a well-known public figure.

I heard a pastor mention once in a sermon that we were dealing with a “Microwave” generation in which everyone wanted a quick fix to all their problems. As I thought about how the pastor referenced this generation and looking at how people interact daily, it made sense. I even went on to make the same statement about this current generation.

One day, as I was observing my son as he watched his videos on YouTube, he noticed that I was watching him. He looked at me and said, “Dad, I am going to be a Vlogger and get famous.” He caught my interest (mainly because I had no idea what a Vlogger was). He showed me several videos of the “Vloggers” he follows.

As he was talking to me, the only thing that I could realize was that this generation is more lost than ever. We are not living with a “Microwave” generation, we are and have always been dealing with a generation of lost people.

There are so many means of connecting with people, yet we are more lost than ever! It’s not that people no longer want to fight for their marriages and families, they don’t know how.

It’s not that people want to “instantly” fix their problems or get rich and famous; they have never been shown what happens behind the scenes.

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Before victory there is sacrifice! In the book of Joshua, there is a well-known story about the Wall of Jericho. This story has been referenced in many faith-building sermons, in hymns, and movies. It’s a truly great story to inspire and bring hope. The short version of the story tells us, God gave the land of Canaan to the Israelites, but before they could go and possess the land, God would make a way for them, but they had to overcome their fears and be obedient. As the Israelites marched six times around the city for six days and on the seventh day, they marched seven times around the city and let out a shout of victory and the walls of Jericho came falling.

God gives them the victory and they begin their journey into Canaan.

The actual story is not as short and pleasant.

The City of Jericho according to several researchers was a piece of land that had a radius of 1.26 miles, approximately 5 square miles. An average person can walk a mile in about twenty-five minutes. It would take an average person almost two hours to walk five miles. On the seventh day, the men of Israel would have had to walk for fourteen hours fully equipped. It would have been impossible for the men of Israel to fight on the seventh day after marching for fourteen hours straight.

People want to hear testimonies of how God restored a marriage, brought someone out of the miry pits, or hear of the faith that someone had while interceding but very few want to go through the process of working towards restoration or have the dedication to endure the pain and time that went into getting out of the miry pits. Even fewer want to go through the hardships of building faith.

It is easy to have faith in God believing that He will forgive your sins and write your name in the book of life when there is little to no work to be put out on your behalf. But when you are asked to go into the missionary field, or to lead a church, or start a ministry, you will have to leave the comfort of your home and career thus requiring an act of faith and obedience to take place on your behalf; faith stops there.

Genuine faith in God comes from knowing God will provide in His time. We become disappointed and lose faith in God when we put a time limit on God to respond to our situation. For God to build your faith, He must first get rid of your strength and abilities that caused you to take the glory and not God. Had the Israelites marched one time on the seventh day, they would have had the strength to fight. God had to remove their strength, God had to put them in a position where they had to question themselves, “Is this really what God wants us to do?” God wants to put you in a place where you trust what He says and trust His timing.

To build a stronger Christian community, we must teach our young Christian members the importance of building faith and not acting on emotions. We must learn that there are no short cuts in life and there is a lot of behind the scene work that takes place to make the outcome victorious. There is no victory without sacrifice.

“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.” (2 Tim. 4:7-8 KJV)

With over 20 years of ministerial service, I am a dedicated servant of God. My passion is to live and work for God and bring others into an intimate relationship with God. I understand that this life comes with many challenges and many have stumbled along the way. I am committed to helping those get back up and continue their journey towards a successful walk with God.

Donate

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Life’s Storms Are Only Temporary

By Cindy Oriol

There will come a time in our lives, even though we didn’t ask for it. A challenge of understanding the painful storms we are going through.

But Jesus knows and sees all. He is there with us, especially when we are facing our trials. He is with us in the valley with his arms opened wide, beckoning us to come inside, where we feel loved and at peace. When we feel our lives are falling apart, He’s always there to pick up the broken pieces and put us back together. We may not see Him, but He is there. We as the body of Christ should believe by faith, not by sight. He gives us free will to decide if we want to trust Him or not; I choose to trust Him completely.

The Lord has given me a beautiful testimony to share with others. Together He and I have written a book named “Having Joy in the Midst of the Storm” to encourage and inspire others while they are going through their own storms in life. I love to share it everywhere I go. I want the Lord to receive all the glory, honor, and praise. So anytime I get an opportunity to talk about Him, I do, especially in hospitals.

Recently, I was hospitalized and from the first person I met until the last one that took care of me, I praised His name. He is so worthy of our praise. My roommate and I started our day by reading our devotionals to each other.

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While I was having a heart procedure done to correct my heart rate which would suddenly drop each time I stood up, I spoke a quiet prayer to the Lord. Because I suffer from seizures and I needed to remain still, I asked Him to hold me down for this test. I told Him, “It’s just you and me, Lord. You are always here with me, keeping me safe, and still.” I saw him in his long white robe, sparkling like the stars. He opened his arms and beckoned me to come inside. There, in his loving arms, I felt safe and comfortable.

After they finished the procedure, while in the elevator on the way back to my room, I sang, “This is the day the Lord has made, I will rejoice and be glad in it.” Both of the transporters thanked me and told me I had made their day. I told them it is the Holy Spirit urging me to sing. I also said that I don’t just come to the hospital because I am so sick, I come to talk to others about Jesus.

We can talk about him everywhere we go, even at the hospital.

When several doctors and nurses have asked me, “Cindy, with all that you have gone through and still are, how can you still have joy?” I tell them, “If I don’t have joy in my heart, then others will think I don’t trust Him completely, and I do.” I will not let the devil steal my joy for the Lord. It’s amazing when others can see my light shine for Him because of the Holy Spirit living inside of me.

Our Lord has made me so strong, especially with my faith. I crawled to the foot of His cross, laid all my burdens at his feet, and left them there.

Once I did that, I felt such a beautiful peace rush through my body, and I knew I would be all right no matter what trial comes my way because I have Jesus.

Tomorrow is not promised to anyone. I, myself, am not worried because “Life’s Storms Are Only Temporary.” We aren’t home yet.

As a child, it wasn’t unusual to see me crouched in a corner reading a good mystery book, usually Nancy Drew or the Hardy Boys. I would never have dreamed that I would ever become an author.

My soulmate, John, of fifteen beautiful years and all our family have really supported my writing Christian books. They know that I will give the Lord all the glory, honor, and praise.

I am a christian author who, with the help of the Lord, has written a book titled, “Having Joy In The Midst Of The Storm’ to encourage and inspire others while they are going through their storms in life.

I want my readers to know, no matter what kind of adversities we may encounter here on earth, as long as we hold tight to Jesus, we can make it through anything.

IN CHRISTIAN LOVE CINDY ORIOL

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

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439

True Words in the Wrong Spirit

By Kelly Garcia

“Your Word is very pure; therefore Your servant loves it.” Psalm 119:140 AMPC I remember those wonderful moments of becoming a Christian and of becoming fully surrendered to God. It’s as if one was the betrothal and the second was the marriage. I was so wonderfully filled with the love of God, I couldn’t wait to tell everyone. A year later, running along the beach after our single-women’s camp-out worship time, I fell to my knees in beautiful surrender to my amazing Savior, declaring these words: “I just want to love You! I just want to go to church! I just want to read Your Word! I don’t want any boyfriends; I just want to love you!” So said my eighteen-year-old-heart in what might look like reciprocal vows with this wonderful God who only asks that we love Him and love others.

“The entrance of Your word gives light; it gives understanding to the simple.” Psalm 119:130 Over the course of the forty years since those days, I have been engaged in numerous Bible studies in addition to my independent study of God’s Word.

“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.” 2 Timothy 3:16-17 40 | M AG A Z I N E N A M E PAGE 3 39

I love reading, copying, studying, teaching, memorizing, reciting, and sharing God’s Word. You might say I marinated in it throughout the years.

The Lord certainly used it to lead me and instruct me, and yes, correct me too! I belabor the point to make clear that the only way we would recognize a counterfeit is if we truly know the original.

That’s how the experts can spot fake money, after all. They know the authentic well enough to spot a phony.

“If You are the Son of God, throw Yourself down.

For it is written…” Here in Matthew 4:6, we see the Tempter speaking God’s word to the Son of God. He was speaking the truth that “‘He will give His angels charge over You,’ and ‘In their hands they shall bear You up, lest You dash Your foot against a stone.’” To which Jesus answered in verse seven, “It is written again, ‘You shall not tempt the Lord Your God.’” In our present world we may not have temptations so clearly defined for us, nor is the truth clearly presented. We have to know the truth of God’s word to fight against the wiles of the devil, and many times, he comes looking like the truth.

In our grandest efforts to love God and love each other, we try to execute that wonderful list called “The Fruit of the Spirit”, found in Galatians 5:22: “… love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness,

goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.

Against such there is no law.” But sometimes love is difficult. Relationships can struggle under the strain of half-truths, or sometimes even manipulation. The word of God can be strangled by misuse. I found myself confused, wondering, “Why does what she/he says sound right, but feel wrong?”

Throughout many years of a struggle to understand this quandary, involving many friends, family, and counselors, it was always the Word of God that I returned to for instruction and direction, because when we are dealing with hidden truths we need the Holy Spirit to illuminate the specific truth and instruction that applies to particular circumstances. That’s why Jesus said in John 14:26: “The Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My Name, will teach you all things…”

“Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal.” (1 Corinthians 13:1) If I don’t have love, I am nothing, Paul concluded at the end of verse two. Believers and unbelievers alike know the word of God and might even be inclined to use it in a particular circumstance, but if they don’t have love, then they are not speaking with God’s authority in their circumstance. Some people are actually using God’s word to control others. This is manipulation and oppression. We need to be like Jesus who resisted and even rebuked the devil by rightly using God’s word in truth. He stood in the truth and used the truth to protect Himself, to keep Himself from falling to the tempter’s plans to destroy Jesus’s destiny.

We are living in a dark hour where truth is relative, and right is becoming wrong, and wrong is being hailed as right. There is only one truth and we need to walk in the light of that Truth, being fully convinced in our hearts to have the courage to declare it. Jesus warned of what relationships would look like in the last days (Luke 12:53), and even though many may fall away from the truth, we still need to exhibit the fruit of the Spirit. We still need to love others and be long-suffering in the hopes that many would be saved. Struggle though we might, Jesus is still the light of the world, and it’s in Him that we place our trust.

Trust in Him and His word. Ask for His direction and counsel and the Holy Spirit “will guide you into all truth.” (John 16:13)

I speak and write in stories, displaying what I see through words that envelope the heart. The God of heaven and the people and the world He created are best enjoyed through eyes of excitement and hearts of wonder, so it is my joy to spend hours and days at a time allowing my pen to flow with such themes. I have thoroughly enjoyed my seasons of mothering and homeschooling my five children and babysitting my two grandchildren, and I might presently have more than one cat at my side. Visit my Blog at http:// godspeak.home.blog/2020/06/03/lets-rebuild/

“Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits,” John said in 1 John 4:1, “whether they are of God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.” Jesus instructed, “Be wise as serpents and harmless as doves. But beware of men…” (Matthew 10:16) In all these instructions of how to live righteously in a difficult world where we need to be very discerning, we can also rest in the truth that the Holy Spirit will give us what words to speak (Matthew 10: 20) or actions to take when faced with any difficulty.

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441

Pick Up The Phone

By Gabriell Larson

When I was in middle school I played on an exclusive volleyball team. The type of team that required late-night practices, early morning weight lifting, strict diet, and good grades to be a part of. I can say for a fact that in those years, volleyball was the center of my world. To be considered for this team there was a series of tryouts that happened for 2 days. After tryouts were completed, if you were chosen for a team the coach would contact you within a week to let you know you made the cut.

Nerve-racking as you can imagine. Looking back, there was one year, in particular, that stands out to me. The teams were separated by age; that year my friends and I were 14. Tryouts went great, I remember a feeling of performance satisfaction as I was assured that I would make the 14-year-old’s team.

The day came when the coach called around to the girls she had picked to be on her team. Well, I waited and waited for the phone to ring but each time it would ring it was another friend telling me she made the team. Midnight came around as I started to cry hysterically in my mom’s bed self-criticizing my every move on tryout day. I woke up the next morning feeling left out and less than... I went to school and sat through all my friends talking about how excited they were to try on the new uniforms and warm-up jerseys. I remember crying between each class in the bathroom, again feeling less than...

I walked home that day calling on God asking, “why didn’t I get a call?” “How come they didn’t want me?” “Why am I not good enough?” These questions circled my mind all the way home.

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I got home and started my homework as my parents attempted to comfort their left out child. The phone rang but at that point, I didn’t even flinch as I thought all my volleyball opportunities were gone for that season. My mom answered and looked at me and said, “it’s for you.” I remember looking up at her with tears as I grabbed the phone. It was a coach but not one I recognized. It was a coach from 2 levels up - the 16-year-old’s coach was on the phone to tell me I have been chosen for her team.

I can still feel how shocked I was, even today. Once the phone was hung up, I remember thanking God with every ounce in my body. Thanking Him for a new and rare opportunity.

I thanked Him for making something I felt was so destructive into something new, something I could grow into. An opportunity of joy, peace, and glory.

Grab your bible & read Jeremiah 33:1-11, paying attention to this verse: “Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and incomprehensible things you do not know.”

Jeremiah 33:3 (CSB) I felt like Jeremiah, confined in the guard’s courtyard struggling to find a bright side to my new found situation.

Did you notice how I didn’t lean on God once during my 24 plus hours of distress? I fell into selfdoubt and characteristic blame before I picked up the “phone” to call God. I am sure Jeremiah had a similar conversation with himself before calling God. It wasn’t until my walk home that I realized that I don’t have to sit with my questions alone, God has the answers. God surely let me know great and incomprehensible things, things that I did not know.

God tells Jeremiah that people were on the way to fight the Chaldeans. God said that he will strike

down using wrath and rage and fill the houses with the bodies of their people. God made it clear that he was ashamed of the city because of their evil however God wanted to promote growth, healing, and prosperity throughout the city. Now with the Chaldeans gone, the growth could start while God rebuilt Judah and Israel and restored their previous homes with fortune and purity. God made the city new and He shined forgiveness on the city and the city cried out to thank God in return for an opportunity filled with joy, peace, and glory.

Here are several questions to ask yourself: 1. What is something great and incomprehensible that God may reveal to you if you only ask?

2. God wants you to pick up the “phone” to call him so that he can shine wisdom and insight into your situation. How can you call him today?

3. In what ways has God already rebuilt a destructive time in your life?

Share your answers with me https://www.facebook.com/gracewithgabriell

Hello all! I’m Gabriell - I am a farm wife from southern MN with 2 fur babies! I have a fulltime job as a Mental Health Practitioner! Other than excessively watching Netflix - my hobby is writing! I have been called to share my experiences with God through a Facebook Page that is for Christian Women. I love connecting with others and sharing my stories! Thank you for helping me grow!

Follow The Path Set Before You

by Karen Ruhl You shall walk in all the ways which the Lord your God has commanded you, that you may live and that it may be well with you, and that you may prolong your days in the land which you shall possess. ~ Deuteronomy 5:33 NKJV This is not what I have done all of my life. In fact, I walked down the path I wanted to walk for many years. I always felt a tug in my heart as I made wrong choices and wondered where the feeling was coming from, until I accepted Christ Jesus as my Savior.

Babies crawl before they walk, and I certainly had to crawl for some time. I remember the time when I felt His presence and knew that He felt the change in me. It turned my life up on end and I gladly accepted the changes I needed to make. When we are not walking the path God has for us, we feel the strain, we feel that tug, and we know we are wrong.

While I was on my knees praying and repenting, God let me know that He has a path for me. He has never left me alone on that path since.

A favorite bible verse is Jeremiah 29:11. NIV “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.”

This verse excites us because it is God telling us He has plans for us - plans to prosper us! This does not protect us from experiencing pain and hardships. Keep on your path, trust in Him. He directs your feet. Amen!

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443

Rejoice in Every Moment

By Dr. Colleen M. Arnold

From the time our daughters were babies, we vacationed on the Outer Banks of North Carolina. We rented the same house, No Egrets in Corolla, year after year. It felt like our own summer house, and in fact, until they were teenagers, our daughters thought we owned it.

My husband, Neil, and I sat out on the deck every night. We talked about life, shared our dreams, and made plans like it was New Year’s Eve. One year we came home to Virginia and remodeled our entire kitchen, so it felt more open and beachier. Another year we decided to put in our own pool, so it felt like we were on vacation all summer. Corolla was where Neil encouraged me to write, and I encouraged him to find work he enjoyed. It was one of our favorite places.

The first summer after he died, I could barely face our own house without him, let alone the beach house.

The next summer, I felt a yearning for the coast and the sand but couldn’t bring myself to go. Finally came the summer I was ready. I chose to go by myself, so I wouldn’t make anyone else sad if I got mopey, and I stayed at a sweet little inn instead of “our” house.

As soon as I got situated in my room, I headed out to walk along the beach. At first, I was nervous, but gratefully, I didn’t get sad. The waves always make me feel God’s presence, and this time was no different.

The wind on my face was refreshing. Gradually I started to see the memories of summers past.

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I saw the memory of my oldest daughter strolling dreamily down the beach, her dress and bare legs being splashed as the waves washed in.

I saw the memory of my middle daughter skim-boarding impressively as all the other kids watched with envy.

I saw the memory of my youngest building sandcastles and timidly putting her toes in at the edge of the surf as she collected water for her lagoon.

I saw the memory of Rufus, my Dalmatian, chasing sea foam back and forth across the shore, barking at it all the while, not quite brave enough to jump in.

I saw the memory of Neil, laying on his towel in the sand with his shirt over his face, pretending to be asleep so I wouldn’t ask him to do something.

Everywhere I looked were more glimpses of my family- different ages, different activities– happy ghosts who made me smile as I saw their shadows. So many memories were spinning around in my head that I felt like spinning, too, right there in the sand, like Julie Andrews on the hilltop in the Sound of Music. I wanted to sing “The beach is alive, with the sound of memories.”

That joy stayed with me for the rest of the trip. It was a precious gift, a celebration of remembrance. I went to the barbecue place and the local bookstore like we always did, but I also started making fresh memories. I visited the nature center and learned about waterfowl

- something we never did before because everyone else thought it was too boring. I learned the best spot to kayak on Currituck Sound and walked on the beach at high tide when there was practically no beach left.

And through it all, I knew God was at my side, filling my heart with peace.

The closest I got to sad was feeling a little guilty about having so much fun doing just what I wanted. And then I remembered: Rejoice always. Pray without ceasing.

In all circumstances give thanks, for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus (1 Thessalonians 5:18) Whatever time this is for you, dear friends, it won’t last. If you are swamped taking care of little ones, remember someday soon they’ll be grown. If you are mourning or weeping, remember someday your heart will heal. If things are going great, chances are that won’t last either.

So whatever time it is, give thanks, and rejoice, for God is with us in every moment.

Signs and Wonders

by Karen Ruhl

As a Photojournalist, I often talk to God and ask Him to show me what He wants me to photograph. I love photographing signs on buildings as they tell such a history of the area we are visiting.

Have you ever asked God for help? We aren’t supposed to ask for signs, although in Isaiah 7:11 NKJV, the verse reads, ““Ask a sign for yourself from the LORD your God; ask it either in the depth or in the height above.”

I think most of us ask for help and just want to feel that our prayers are being heard. God wants you to ask Him for his help. He does not want us to try to handle things on our own. The Bible is full of verses letting us know how much God loves us and wants the best for us.

Dr. Colleen Arnold is a family physician in Lexington, VA. She is also a widow and mother of three young adult daughters.

Psalm 121:2 My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth. NIV

Matthew 7:7 NIV says “Ask, and it will be given to you; She enjoys hanging out with family and friends, taking seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to care of her patients, writing, walking, and working on you.” her blog at https://colleenarnold.org/ I have moved so many times in my lifetime and each time, You can also connect with her on Facebook at I have tried to acclimate in my new home. One of my https://www.facebook.com/ColleenArnold.Author favorite lines that people have asked me over and over is, “You aren’t from here, are you?” For a long time, it made me feel like a stranger in town, one that would never be welcomed. And then, I saw a sign with Psalm 37 written in bold letters. I looked it up and read this verse, “Trust in the LORD and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. Take delight in the LORD, and He will give you the desires of your heart.” from Psalm 37, verse 3-4 NIV. And there was my sign! He is always there, looking over us and listening to our prayers. He wants to hear from you.

Amen!

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Eldera - A Virtual Village

By Donna Miller

Donna J. Miller is a retired elementary school media coordinator and a preschool curriculum writer for LifeWay Christian Resources. She lives in Hudson, NC. The worldwide pandemic has been trying for people everywhere. However, among the struggles, there have been amazing bright spots! One of those for me has been Eldera. My initial letter from the founders says, “Quarantined around the world, we came together to build a virtual village where we can share wisdom, attention, and time… and hopefully make someone else’s day better. “ My daughter-in-law, Jess, introduced me to Eldera because I was enjoying reading to my granddaughter, Agda, on FaceTime each week. Jess shared that one of her friends was beginning a program that paired interested adults with a child to read, help with homework, and just talk!

I signed up reluctantly and was paired with a fouryear-old boy in New York City in early May. He and his mom were quarantined and we met several times on Zoom. He was adorable, bashful, and fun to get to know. When I asked him a question, he would turn and tell his mom the answer. Mom didn’t really get a break but after a few visits she felt free to move slightly away or work on her computer. I was so pleased when he finally made a comment directly to me!

I have also been paired with a four-year-old girl near Albany. She is full of life, imaginative, creative, and smart. The first visit she read a couple of beginning readers to me and I read to her. Since then we have built with blocks and shared our creations with each other, played school, and read several books every week. She has taken me outside to see the fairy house

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she was building, the lawn chair stable she built for her bouncy horse, her new climbing equipment, the neighbor’s swing set, and her garden. I have watched her garden grow from tiny plants to tomato plants and sunflowers at least seven feet tall. I have enjoyed getting to know her mom as well and hope that I have been encouraging to her. Since both Mom and Dad work in a university setting and with many foreign students, my little friend has been protected at home for months!

My third pairing is a three-year old-boy in Brazil.

(Thankfully he does speak English.) The second week, he asked to hear a book I read the first week again.

The third week he sang Old McDonald to me. In his version, Old McDonald has an elephant on his farm! I promised him a jungle animal book next week. Dad is working from home and watching two little ones while Mom works in a store. The boy has begun to call me Grandma Donna and I look forward to each visit.

Most of the Eldera mentors are working with older children. Occasionally, we have a Mentor Council meeting - a Zoom session with the founders to share what we are doing, ask questions, and get ideas from each other. Some mentors are reading a chapter book with their children and discussing it one chapter each week. Others have helped with homework and encouraged special interests. Jewelry making, self-publishing a book, writing poetry, and telling jokes are some of the interests that have been explored. Several Korean girls are teaching their mentor Korean words. It is fascinating to talk to others across the country with varied backgrounds, accents, and skills and hear how they are reaching out to their children.

Occasionally, Eldera has a special guest and invites the families and mentors to join in. I was able to “meet” an astronaut and my granddaughter logged in to meet with a children’s author. Last week a doctor met with the Mentor Council to talk about developmental issues and how to build trusting relationships with children.

Eldera is always on the lookout for mentors. They currently have a waiting list of over one hundred children all over the world. The founders said that when one parent has a good experience, they tell all their friends and many more children sign up. As we enter a new school year with many children learning virtually, there is a great need!

Is Eldera something you would be interested in? The founders - Dana, Kate, and Jules are great at matching mentors to children that will work well together.

I asked for younger children. Kate called me “the toddler whisperer,” but working with the littles is easy for me because I have taught Kindergarten and work with twos and threes in Sunday School.

Alone By The Water’s Edge

by Karen Ruhl

During the winter of 2017, we visited the Outer Banks in North Carolina. We were just below Buxton and stopped to look at Pamlico Sound. Only a small stretch of land separates this island from the sound on one side and the ocean on the other. We were looking out over the sound, enjoying the Visit Eldera’s website and explore. They make view. I took a walk, crossed the highway, climbed the stairs everything easy. They email you and the parent to over the sand dunes, and was on a magnificent stretch of introduce you, help you choose a time that works beach. As I walked along the beach, I started picking for you, set up the Zoom meetings and respond to up bits of shells and sea worn rocks. I was taking photos, emails quickly. The idea behind Eldera is as old as our enjoying the sunshine and ocean, and was in my element. ancestors’ villages and it brings back intergenerational bonds! Each Elder Mentor is vetted with a backIt was a perfect temperature for walking on the beach. I ground check similar to the ones used in schools. continued to pick up small rocks and shells, stopped to take This intergenerational community now includes pictures, and all of a sudden, I realized there were no people people in 37 states and 12 countries. around. I was totally alone. The beach was empty as far as I could see in each direction - miles of empty beach.

Who would you like to work with? What wisdom and skills can you share? I encourage you to invest in a I remember talking out loud and thanking God for the child. One of my former bosses always said, “Every blessing of visiting this area and for a beautiful day to child needs someone who is just crazy about them.” I explore the Outer Banks. I thanked Him for the ocean and am rapidly becoming crazy about some children that then I remembered a verse I love.

I may never meet in person.

Genesis 1:9-10 tells us that God said, “Let the water under the sky be gathered to one place, and let dry ground appear.” And it was so. God called the dry ground “land,” Check out Eldera at https://www.eldera.ai and the gathered waters He called “seas.” And God saw that it was good.

And it is so good. God is amazing. When He created the ocean, He said, ‘This far you may come, but no farther, and here your proud waves must stop!’

Oh, what a great and powerful God we serve. Amen!

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A New Season of Hope

By Lorrie Manosh

It’s hot! The sun beats down, the oppressive humidity without end, the beauty around that once flourished now covered in drought and longing for a little rain, a little refreshment. The excitement for summer days is now overshadowed by a season that seems to have started too soon yet doesn’t seem to be ending. The release of children from their normal school days in March is now extending through the fall with many unknowns still in sight.

One season meshes into another, one hope shattered by the next delay, plans unknown, and schedules in disarray.

2020 has been a year… I don’t think I need to say more than that. Life has been altered for each of us in some way and for some in many ways. If you are a planner like I am, the plan book has more crossouts and scribbles than a child just learning the joys of writing! I’m sure I could continue to list what has changed, the disappointments, the frustrations, and more, but my heart is already too heavy as I’m sure yours is as well. Instead, there is a soft whisper within that says, “I am here... I have been here, and I will continue to be here. I am your light in the darkness, I am your way through the storms, I am your drink when you thirst and your peace when anxiety knocks at your door.” To the soft whisper that speaks within, I am thankful. When the noise of life gets too loud around me and there’s so much flashing that I’m blinded, I am thankful that the Lord speaks to me and to you in a still, soft whisper. His gentleness and unwavering love are our guide, our anchor for the soul.

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As I look ahead with still so many uncertainties and can feel my hope crushing in the weight of delays and unknowns, I am reminded that Christ goes before me as it says in Deuteronomy 31:8, “The Lord is the one who goes ahead of you; He will be with you.

He will not fail you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.” In this my hope is renewed, my spirit rises, and my plans drop because I know He has me and that His plans and ways for me are greater. Like a little girl following the lead of a trusted adult that goes before me, I grab hold of my heavenly Father’s hand and trust Him in my today and my tomorrow.

It may be through a storm, it may be over a mountain or through a valley, but knowing that He guides me, that He will not fail me or leave me is enough for me to continue to press forward.

Today I challenge you to grab hold of your heavenly father’s hand and not let go. He will carry you; He will guide you and He will never leave you. His plans are not our plans and though at times it feels scary, seems weird, or even impossible, the journey with Him is far greater than the journey without Him. When you want to cry out, “Why me?” I instead challenge you to cry out “Lord, what do you want to show me in this?” God has a plan and His love for us is far greater than we can imagine. I pray and believe that 2020 will not be just a year we remember for COVID 19, but more importantly, I pray that 2020 will be the year we remember for what the Lord did in us! Grab hold...His hand is waiting for you!

Lorrie Manosh is a children’s author who is passionate about teaching, writing, learning, inspiring others and her faith in the Lord.

Her first book, “The Feeling Closet What are you Wearing Today?” released in April 2020, is a book that inspires children to manage their emotions through the use of their feeling closet. Lorrie lives in Massachusetts and is a wife and mother of four with over twenty years of experience in the classroom as an elementary teacher, special educator, principal, professor, and leader in various church programs.

Follow Lorrie on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at https://linktr.ee/feelingcloset

Click on the book photo to purchase.

Contact us by phone at 828-305-8571 or Email at Team@FaithOnEveryCorner.com

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Want a Cookie?

By Pamela Walck

“Want a cookie?” A bunch of college-age kids were passing around a bin of chocolate chip cookies as my sister, my mom, and I sat waiting nearly twelve hours to interview to become a contestant on the Price is Right game show. “Who are these people handing out free cookies,” I thought? Why are they doing it? The woman next to me said they were a group of Christians.

I saw the smiles on their faces and their laughter as they did something purely out of the kindness of their hearts, which seemed rare. I really didn’t understand the joy they had giving out cookies to complete strangers and striking up conversations.

Fast forward a few more years. I would often go to Thursday in the Square, in downtown Buffalo, New York, where there was a lot of drinking going on. Walking in or leaving the area, someone would often hand me a pamphlet I knew was about “religion.” I’d take it and immediately throw it in a garbage can, never bothering to read it. “Freak,” I thought.

Several years later, through a series of events, I received Christ as my Savior. Even after this, those memories would sometimes come back, throwing away the Christian pamphlets, tracts they call them.

Now I know why people did those things. It was because they wanted others and me to know Jesus personally as Lord. I felt ashamed for acting and thinking so poorly towards them and Jesus.

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A few years after the cookie episode, something similar took place. As I waited in an airport to board a plane, I saw a bunch of people, probably in their twenties, sitting on the floor laughing, joking, and truly enjoying each other’s company. Someone told me they were a Christian group going on a mission trip. I felt a bit envious of them and how elated they seemed, even though the whole idea of going on a mission trip seemed foreign to me.

Those people had something that I didn’t have at the time—joy. Once I trusted in Jesus, I started to own the deeper joy that comes from a relationship with Him. Before knowing Christ alone as my Savior, my mood was often more temperamental, easily affected by the happenings in my life. Not that we can’t have feelings, God gave us those, yet at the same time, I often felt more controlled by my feelings.

Faith differs from feelings, as sometimes our feelings can lead us astray. Making righteous choices— in line with the Bible, requires some discriminating, not just agreeing and believing anything if it “feels right” or based on a majority. If you look at Noah, who built the Ark, everyone else perished except Noah and his family because he obediently followed the Lord. He applied his faith to what God told him to do. Faith requires action and so does love.

I also remember an unpleasant experience concerning chocolate chip cookies. Many years ago, I went out with a guy a few times and decided to surprise him by baking chocolate chip cookies and putting them on his porch. I didn’t even get a phone call from him thanking me. A few days later, I called him to make sure he got the cookies. “Oh yeah, thanks,” he said half-heartedly. Obviously, the relationship didn’t last, but it reminded me that we can’t always expect a positive response even from good intentions.

There’s often a cost involved in doing anything including baking cookies, handing out tracts, or going on a mission trip which includes time, effort, and possibly feeling scared or different. The first time I ever shared the Gospel with someone, it took courage. The person mattered more to me than any possible ridicule or my feeling intimidated. That was years ago, now if someone handed me a Christian tract or tried to talk to me about Jesus—I’d say thanks, you really care about me!

Approximately 150,000 people die every second.

Some go to Heaven but the majority to Hell (Matthew 7:13-14). Isn’t it possible, if you know Jesus as your Savior, that you would want to share Christ with those that need Him? “He told them, ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field,’” Luke 10:2

I think about joy too… verses such as “… the joy of the Lord is your strength” (Nehemiah 8:10), and joy of the Lord is my salvation. Joy is one of the fruits of the Spirit, which comes from a mind set on things above. It is a richness that comes from knowing Jesus intimately as the Holy Spirit molds you, changing you into the person He wants you to become. James 1:2-4 tells us, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” It doesn’t mean you’re happy about all circumstances, but you know He is with you and that makes all the difference.

Jesus proved Himself true by dying on the Cross and being raised again from death to life. He offers forgiveness and everlasting life in Heaven with the Lord, as a gift! Otherwise, we choose to take the judgment of our sin upon ourselves in Hell, separated from Christ for eternity. The very thought of people going there makes me feel absolutely terrible, as there is no turning back. But we each have free will, Pam loves to write and inspire others to walk in and God doesn’t violate that. faith and share the Gospel. She has been a follower of Jesus for over twenty years. She works as a Chocolate chip cookies were a gift I received years physical therapist, takes care of her sweet ninetyago at the Price is Right where we ended up in the two-year-old mom, and loves going to the gym. A audience, unfortunately not as contestants. Pergraduate of Dallas Theological Seminary, Pam has haps we didn’t jump high enough or were animated taught many Bible studies, been on mission trips, enough during the fifteen-second interview. God volunteered in pastoral care, and helps with a mindoesn’t want performance though, He freely wants istry to children in Zambia. our whole being in relationship with Him, everyone to believe in Him as Savior. Then serving Him and others comes from a desire to love people as He Pam’s blog is found at https://joyluke157.wordwould. press.com/ I think about how much the Lord loves us and how we too can share His love with the world. It’s funny how God changes the desires of our hearts when we are transformed by Him. I’ve now gone on seven mission trips to foreign countries, and love sharing the Gospel and handing out tracts wherever I am.

Do I still get scared or nervous sometimes? Sure I do, but I try to let Him and His love live through me.

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Here Am I

by Yvonne Morgan A world lost in sin and darkness I glimpse from heaven on high Who can reach my loved ones?

Send me Lord, here am I Besides author, my names include wife, mom, and grandmother. My children include two grown daughters and one son who lives with Jesus. I enjoy my role as Bebe to three beautiful granddaughters.

My passions include missions work and sharing the amazing stories of how we can find Christ in the ordinary. Through my mission work, I started a charity, which cares for orphans in Nepal and Myanmar. When not on the mission field, I write full time. I hope my stories can help you see God in ordinary events in life and inspire you to reach out as the hands and feet of Christ to others.

Blog at Turningmountainsintomolehills.org Twitter: @ymmauthor Website: Yvonne-Morgan.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/YMMauthor/ Books:

I hear their anguished souls cry Who will teach them the path to Life?

Send me Lord, here am I Busyness and worldly wants abounding But their souls feel empty and run dry Who will show them the love of Christ?

Send me Lord, here am I Their Savior died to give life eternal But time is short and they must decide Who will show them to the Throne of Grace?

Send me Lord, here am I The Lord calls each of us to reach the lost To show them the path of life on high

Turning Mountains into Molehills (2017) Rest in God Prayer Journal (9-2020) Faith, Hope, and Love in a Broken World (122020)

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The poor, the sick and the forgotten

Will you answer the call of Jesus and say?

Send me Lord, here am I

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SUBMISSION POLICY

Magazine Submission Policy and Guidelines • Faith On Every Corner magazine is digitally published on a monthly basis by Faith On Every Corner, LLC • All submissions are subject to editorial review prior to acceptance and publication • Content: Focused on articles, stories, poems, and testimonies centered on acts of faith and service • Audience: Christian, family oriented • Rights: Contributing writers retain the rights to their work, granting Faith On Every Corner, LLC the right to publish, re-publish, share, archive, and for promotional use.

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• Compensation: Faith On Every Corner is a free digital magazine. Currently, we do not offer compensation for published content.

• Faith On Every Corner reserves the right to change or modify these submission guidelines at any time without prior notice.

The following are the planned themes for the calendar year 2020, All articles do not reflect our themes.

October - Harvest Time November - Thanksgiving December - Christmas While we do like to follow our scheduled themes, we will gladly review suggested topics or content.

Calling All Writers.

We would love to receive your article submissions for consideration.

All articles are due by the 15th of each month to be considered.

Please contact us at team@faithoneverycorner.com for clarification or questions regarding these guidelines. Prior to submitting to Faith On Every Corner, we suggest that you review prior issues of the magazine at www.faithoneverycorner.com/magazine.html

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Faith On Every Corner Publisher & Editor in Chief: Karen Ruhl Senior Editor & Business Manager: Craig Ruhl Photography: Karen Ruhl (unless otherwise credited) Staff Writers: Craig Ruhl, Karen Ruhl Submit Articles For Consideration to: Team@faithoneverycorner.com Phone: 828-305-8571

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