May was a good month, I decided I needed to take a small vacation and relax after all that has been happening for the last two years. My friend Mary Jane went with me to the Golden Isles in Georgia, USA.
Here are some of my favorite photos from my files. My Georgia photos will be in the Road Trippin’ article on page 50. These photos are truly from coastto-coast. The lighthouse is in the San Diego area, the beach is Newport Beach, CA and the mountain view is in North Carolina.
Damien is letting us know how much he loved long road trips with grandma and pop pop, but was a good little passengar for quite some time.
May God bless you all.
Hello June!
I must admit that I am trying to wrap my head around being a widow. After 26 years with a person by your side almost 24/7, it is a big adjustment to be alone. Yet, I take comfort in knowing I am not alone at all. God has been with me and it is an incredible feeling to feel His presence during this chapter in life.
I pray that you are all doing well and getting ready to enjoy the summertime. If you are planning on traveling, send me some photos from your trips. I’ll put some in the September magazine - so get out there and have some fun adventures.
I don’t know about you, but we have had enough rain for now. I know we need it to keep things green and all, but we could use a small break.
As we head toward summer, I am always interested in hearing your plans. Are you going out of town, having a staycation, having guests? Send me a note and let me know what you are up to this summer.
The photo of me on was taken by my friend Mary Jane on Driftwood Beach, N.C`.
I would love to hear from you. Please let me know what you think of the magazine so I can always be ready to make improvements. I would appreciate it if you would share the link with others an help us continue to reach people around the world.
May God bless you all, Karen
Team@faithoneverycorner.com
COVER ART AND INSIDE COVER PHOTOS By Karen Ruhl
(Copyright 2004 - all rights reserved)
Quiet Time Rhymes ... by John Alexander ... Pages 6-7
Sounds At The Library ... by Melissa Henderson... Pages 8-9
Savoring the Moments of Awe ... Yvonne M. Morgan ... Pages 10-11
The Parade ... by Brenda S. Baranowski... Page 11
Poems ... by Michael Shoemaker ... Pages 12-13
Morning Coffee ... by Michael E. Wells ... Pages 14-15
Surround Yourself ... by Irene Surya ... Page 16
Rest ...by Peter Caligiuri... Pages 18-19
Forever The Father’s Child ... by Nicole Byrum ... Pages 20-21
Falling Into The Arm Of Jesus ... by Brianna Barrett ... Pages 22-23
Travel With God ... by Steve Carter ... Pages 24-25
Though The Outward Man Perishes ... Rolanda T. Pyle ... Pages 26-27
For Such A Time Like These ... Shara Bueler Repkal ... Pages 28-29
Hero and Delighted Father ... by Laurie Glass ... Pages 30-31
Heaven ... by Karen Ruhl ... Pages 32-33
Poems ... by Mike Hall ... Pages 34-35
Daddy’s watch Is Always Right ... by Donna J. Miller ... Page 36-37
Divine Confidence ... by Dr. Kathleen Oden ... Pages 38-39
Book Reviews ... Pages 40-41
June Greetings ... by Howard Isom... Pages 42-43 (continued on 54)
Grace Notes ... by Janice Alonso ... Pages 44-45
Walking With God and June’s Prayer ... by Karen Ruhl ... Pages 46-47
Par For The Course ... by Andrea Marino ... Pages 48-49
Road Trippin’ ... by KarenRuhl ... Pages 50-51
Get Real ... by Linda Castro ... Pages 52-53
Photo Art ... by Karen Ruhl ... Pages 56-57
To the writers and contributors of the June edition of this magazine, I thank you from the bottom of my heart to those of you who sent emails, messages, and texts to let me know how happy you are to have the magazine back after a few month hiatus.
I am so grateful for each of you and for our readers - they keep me moving forward each month too.
God Loves You - and so do I
The older I get, the more I realize the importance of my relationship with the Lord. He is the source of my peace, and I value spending quiet time with Him. That time spent in His presence brings about contentment, joy in abundance, and a fresh anticipation of what the Lord will bring my way, knowing that He holds the future in His hand.
I pray these poems resonate with you.
Blessings, John Alexander QuietTimeRhymes.com
Don’t let the things now in the past Cause you to toss and turn at night.
Blot out the shadows that they cast
By walking in God’s grace and light. We cannot change the years gone by, The things in life that we regret.
God dries our tears and hears our cry. He sent His Son to pay our debt, And by His grace our soul’s set free.
Each day is fresh, and full, and new. We once were blind but now we see.
God’s love is real, His Word is true.
Reach out to Him and seek His face, Praise God for His amazing grace.
If my wish for tomorrow, my longing today, Obscures all the treasures the Lord brings my way, Then I’m missing contentment inside of my heart. Lord help me to value what You can impart. If my plans for tomorrow align with Your will, And I trust that You’re with me, You’ll help me fulfill What You have for me daily, Lord You will provide The joy and contentment if I can abide. Lord help me to trust You and follow Your lead. Trust You will provide me with all that I need. Lord help me have faith beyond things I can see. You are my joy, Lord; in You I am free. My trust is in You Lord, not things I can hold. Your joy in abundance You form in my soul.
A time of quiet solitude, With peaceful thoughts of gratitude, A gentle breeze upon my face, Those cherished moments I embrace. A time to sit, and contemplate My future and anticipate Where I will go, for me brand new, What lies ahead still left to do.
I don’t know when, or how, or where, But trust You Lord to lead me there. Content for now with quiet time To read, to pray, jot down a rhyme.
I pray each day I seek Your will.
Each day with joy my heart You fill.
Award-winning author Melissa Henderson writes inspirational messages laced with a bit of humor. With stories in books, magazines, devotionals and more, Melissa hopes to encourage readers. Melissa is the author of “Licky the Lizard” and “Grumpy the Gator”. Her passions are helping in community and church. Melissa is an Elder, Deacon and Stephen Minister. Follow Melissa on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and at https:// www.facebook.com/melissa.henderson.9440
Read her blogs at: https://melissaghenderson.com/ It’s Always A Story With The Hendersons
“Why are you whispering?” The librarian asked as our grandchildren and I walked by the front desk of the local library. I replied that we always whisper in the library. Rowan and Eden looked at the lady who had asked the question. Then, they looked at me and waited for my response. This conversation reminded me that there is always something to learn at the library. Sounds at the library can teach valuable lessons.
“Do We Always Have to Whisper At the Library?”
We paused at the desk and listened to the librarian. The explanation she provided to Rowan, Eden, and me, showed that our library is more than a place for checking out books.
“In the adult section, we ask people to whisper, so no one is disturbed while reading. In the area for children, we don’t have to whisper. This library wants everyone to have a good time exploring the books, computers, art room, murals on the wall, and more.”
Smiles showed that we were ready to investigate and search for new ways to enjoy the day. We should whisper when entering the building. When we passed by the adult area and entered the children’s section, we didn’t have to whisper. We would follow the rules of no shouting or running in the aisles.
I noticed that when the kids were given permission to use inside voices and not whisper, the library became a place of fun and adventure.
Our weekly visits to the library are usually in the afternoon. However, we attended a morning movement class that involved singing, dancing, and playing instruments.
Upon entering the children’s section, I’m always amazed at the creativity and dedication of the librarians. There is something for every skill set and age group. Colorful displays highlight suggested books for reading. Comfy chairs are provided for parents, grandparents, and others to rest upon while waiting for children to explore.
The walls are painted with dinosaurs, flowers, and bright colors. Recent art projects are shown on the walls and hanging from the ceiling.
A door leads to a fenced-in outdoor garden and play area. A play “Post Office” is set up in a corner, complete with puppets, laminated stamps, and boxes to mail. Sometimes, the play area is set up as a “Puppet Show”.
Computers, desks, and chairs allow for learning games. A kid-sized table displays bins with paper, pencils, and crayons.
I’m thankful for the local library and its community involvement. Our family likes to visit the library, too. My husband and I find new stories to read. I participate in the Adult reading events where I log books and win prizes.
Here are a few ways that make the library a fun place to visit.
• Friendly greetings from staff when we enter the building
• Comfy chairs and couches
• Chess and checkers game for everyone to play
• Paper and supplies to create artwork are available throughout the library
• Bags with beans and seeds are placed in a box and free to take home. Detailed instructions on how to watch the seeds and beans grow are included in the packet.
• Coloring sheets, Treasure Hunt worksheets, and handwriting practice worksheets are ready for everyone
• Singing and Movement classes for children are offered in the mornings
• Storytime happens at various times during the week
• Reading Contests for all ages- log your reading and win prizes
• Computer area with skill-appropriate games
• Puppet stage, Post Office, etc. allow for creativity and sharing
• Puzzles, toy vehicles, dinosaurs, and other items for play are located in bins
• Outdoor garden for everyone to use
• Listen for sounds in the library. Discuss what is heard. (People whispering, computers, fax machines, books being placed in the drop-off bin, stories being read aloud, laughter, etc.)
Visiting the library is a great way to bond and share time with people of all ages. Have you visited your library? What sounds have you noticed? What special activities do you recommend?
I have noticed numerous books about God and faith in our local library. That makes me happy. ��
“Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” (Matthew 4:4 NIV)
Blessings, Melissa Henderson
Click on the book covers to purchase Melissa’s books.
Yvonne M Morgan, Christian author and speaker
https://yvonne-morgan.com
Blog at Turningmountainsintomolehills.org Twitter: @ymmauthor Website: Yvonne-Morgan.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/YMMauthor/ Turning Mountains into Molehills (2017)
I watched a National Geographic special this week about the impact of moments of awe on life. The organizers undertook an experiment with retired soldiers who suffered from PTSD and exposed them to moments of awe near the Artic Circle in Northern Canada. Surrounded by nature and solitude, the six soldiers spent a week in tents, to take time away from the busyness of life. They found healing from nights watching the aurora borealis, hiking in the quietness of snow-packed trails, and standing at the base of awe-inspiring mountain peaks. Upon returning home, each member of the group discovered they slept better and functioned better, with less depression and anxiety.
As the show wrapped up, one expert explained how appreciating moments of awe can benefit each of us. He also recommended that we try to find times for those moments at least a few times each month to help improve our mental health. I also think we need to spend time in the awesome presence of Almighty God and will experience the same healing for our souls. When was the last time you experienced a moment of awe that refreshed your soul?
Mother Teresa once said; “God speaks in the silence of the heart.” I agree and I think the National Geographic show also showed this concept. We need to practice times alone in quiet solitude to find those moments of awe and refreshment. For me, it comes down to finding a quiet spot in nature that allows me to focus on my Heavenly Father with no distractions.
Here are a few things that evoke awe in me:
Observing sunrises and sunsets.
Spending time in snowcapped mountains.
Experiencing the hush of a quiet moment spent in God’s creation.
Filling my mind with the truth of God’s awesomeness.
Hearing God speaking to me through His words in the Bible.
Listening for His small, still voice in my prayers.
Time spent with family and friends.
In Psalm 19:1 (NIV); “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.” David shows what inspires his awe moment. I imagine he spent hours looking up at the sky and thinking about all that God made and gains an understanding of his vast power and majesty.
In Psalm 66:3 (NIV); “Say to God, how awesome are your deeds! So great is your power that your enemies cringe before you.” David shows us to that we should think deeply about who God is and what he’s done. When you comprehend God is the King of King, and the creator of the universe, how can you not stand in awe that we can call him friend?
“The world will never starve for want of wonders, only for want of wonder,” G. K. Chesterton. Without the wonder, it’s easy for Christians today to have a well-versed knowledge of Scripture but an empty and hollow practical faith. It feels like we lost our sense of marvel for the world and for our Savior and then we ponder why so many become disenchanted within the church. We need to put the awe back into our faith. And when we see God with a genuine sense of awe, we understand his awesomeness and our faith awakens. And with it, our churches become alive, filled with joy and hope that attracts others.
Dear Heavenly Father. Instill in me a sense of awe for who you are and for all you have created. Please help me make time to reflect on you. Guide my eyes to see the beauty all around me, tune my ears to hear the whispers of your sweet voice, and direct my voice to share your wonders with those around me. I want to live a life filled with awe moments. In Jesus’ most holy name. Amen.
Michael Shoemaker
is a poet, photographer and writer from Magna, Utah where he lives with his wife and son. He is the author of a poetry/ photography collection Rocky Mountain Reflections (Poets’ Choice, 2023) and Grasshoppers in the Field (in press). His works have appeared in Today’s Living Christian Magazine, The Christian Courier and Pure in Heart Stories.
An observation, my friend.
You seem to want to drive, white-knuckled, the big yellow bus of all eternal existences by yourself, with half a mortal life of experience, instead of letting God do all-knowing wonders everywhere and for everyone.
No wonder you appear so weary and stressed, not knowing what is just around the next hair-pinned curve.
Come, let’s sit for a while in the coolness of the Garden, rest easy in Me, my Precious Child. Buses can wait.
She told a lone granddaughter, just above a breath with raspy broken tones, there was no longer family enough to tend the garden of granite and watch the violets wave in the grass.
She wept, until limp - a sorrow-soaked blanket.
The granddaughter went to their church leader in hushed hesitancy, sharing the family’s woe and hope for someone to care for the graves of those who crossed blistering prairies to lush wide-open Oregon fields.
He promised to visit the site and speak to others. It was as described, a sea of billowing bracken, faltering fence, and grave markers, nearly a complete check on nature’s evergreen list of recapture.
They came, not one, but many, not for a month, bringing with them a mower, shovels, hats, hoes, rakes, smiles, faith and laughter.
Most were 12- or 13-year-olds tell their descendants how they found Jesus, bended low on hands and knees carving away weeds from stone.
While heavy dew descends, landing luminous liviana in her lap she sits to watch the next generation tend, heaven-struck, once again and forever, “Thank God, oh, thank you, dear God.”
Note: In Spanish, liviana translates as light.
In a place known as “little holes” less in value than Nazareth two missionaries taught far from home, but not as far as when Jesus taught being His Father’s Only Begotten Son condescending to earth.
Polvo, polvo lands, lies, lifts again nestled in the nostrils of dogs and men de bebida fuerte lying face down on hard clay at noon breathing lightly in Pocitos Central square.
Bicycles, bicycles, missionary wheels spinning fast as falcons descending and angels in flight rain forecast, but one family waited enough, enough to ride on dirt roads fourteen miles out and fourteen back.
Missionaries sit, family members stand, as dark clouds gather, turned over twin paint buckets, the only seats they own, phrases burst from Spirit’s fount “Faith, repentance, baptism, freedom, freedom from sin and death, through God’s only Begotten Son who gave His life for us.” All that heard, agreed to baptism.
Missionaries rode, so full of beaming, redeeming joy, rain on the road was drips and drops, cracks and rivulets for ten miles then stream, creek, knee-deep deluge with wheels stuck in muddied muck three feet deep and three miles to go.
Against the purpled sunset two bicycle crossbars raised high to carrying shoulders bruised, but not broken drops of tears, sweat, pain, agony, love effulgent.
I will always remember Another, Holy is His Name, who bled great drops of blood from every precious pore for me.
Note: “polvo” is translated into English as “dust” and “bebida fuerte is translated as “hard drink”.
Michael E. Wells has a passion for writing letters of Christian encouragement. With poetic style and moving messages, the reader is often comforted and consoled, inspired and refreshed. Since his retirement from Federal Service in 2006, most mornings are spent penning letters of the heart. Tucked away in the foothills of Pennsylvania, his is an idyllic lifestyle in a pastoral setting. This backdrop helps to set both mood and message for his many writings. You can find his book, “Morning Coffee with Words For The Day” at Amazon.com.
Click on book to purchase on Amazon.
“Give thanks to the Lord for He is good. His mercy endures forever.” One of life’s most important lessons is that of being grateful. Out of humility and thankfulness comes contentment and fulfillment in life. Not in the sense of doing, but in being. The world measures success by accomplishments, but as we know, our lives can be full of activities on the outside and void in the sense of value on the inside.
The Bible makes clear our mindset in life. It states we are to “love mercy, to do justly and to walk humbly with our God.” Simplicity in life’s purpose brings peace and contentment in a world of chaos and uncertainty. We are to “take joy in the God of our salvation.” It will take us to a state of mind and place of the heart, where life makes sense and our efforts are worthwhile. Truly you and God make a majority, you do not struggle alone.
To have a thankful heart is not one who is pollyannic when confronting problems, believing none exist but one who does not forget whose they are when life happens, for “God keeps those in perfect peace whose minds are stayed on Him.” Life is mind over matter. The mind of Christ over matters of the heart. King David writes, “I would have despaired unless I had believed to see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.” So believes a thankful heart.
God has promised many things to many people at different times for different reasons and delivered them all to those who heard and believed. Promises are very important in life. They give us hope and patience. There is an old hymn that reads; “Standing on the promises of God my Savior.” Now, if this is where our lives should be centered of great importance is knowing what God has promised us. In John’s first letter to the church (2:25), he makes it clear. God has promised us this... eternal life. He goes on to say he who has the Son has life, but he who does not have the Son does not have life. It is very simple. The life of God is in the Son of God. It is said of Jesus that all the promises of God are yes and amen in Him.
That being established and settled in our hearts, we ask: what are His promises for me today, tomorrow, next month or next year? His promises are as varied as our needs. We ask, we pursue, we declare, and we request, but what is His response? We have to take into account that all our desires are not necessarily His promises. Yes, the word states He gives us the desires of our heart, but that is after He has changed them. Paul wrote that we don’t even know what to pray for at times. I believe our greatest challenge in life is to hear what God is promising us. The Book of Acts is filled with stories of lives directed by the voice of the Holy Spirit: what to do, where to go, what to say, or what will happen. These were not unique to them only, but available to us today to guide and direct. Some may be short term, others long term. But the key is to desire them, to listen for them and finally hear them from God. And having once heard them... hold on to them.
Paul wrote to the Romans (4:20, 21) of Abraham’s faith once God had told him something. I believe we can place ourselves in this declaration and use it in our own lives concerning things God has spoken to us. Our conviction should be, “I will not waver at the promise of God through unbelief, but I will be strengthened in faith, giving glory to God. For I am fully convinced that what God has promised me, He is able to perform.” First, I desire to know, then I ask to hear, now I listen... and when I know I hold on! Some may discount it, many may question your reasoning, and still others may say you must have heard wrong.
They may no longer walk with you or talk with you, but deep down there is a knowing, a sense of purpose born in a time of trial, a path chosen where others walk by. It is the journey of life led by His voice, sustained by His word, and comforted by the promises of God.
A word that has become popular recently in our culture. It is a casual reference to accepting one to view and participate in daily interactions and conversations online. With one click, we can bring a stranger into our innermost personal lives. With another click, we can discard them as to have never been.
It is with such ease that we do this that diminishes the word. Friendship is not to be entered into lightly or ended impulsively. It is a partnership that is approached slowly, engaged deeply, endures steadfastly and brings reward immeasurably. I read where a friend loves at all times, that they stick closer than a brother.
The power of friending. I am reminded of the words spoken by Jesus to His disciples, “Today I call you My friends.” Abraham was called a friend of God and God spoke to Moses as one would to a friend. The friending of God, it is not a simple click but can happen that quick. A relationship born in an instant and enduring for all eternity. Jesus stands at your heart’s door and knocks, “May I come in my friend...”
In this life on earth
Surround yourself with people Who will love to see you grow Who will motivate you to be your best.
Surround yourself with people Who will point you specifically To the cloud of witnesses Who have gone before you.
Dr. Irene Surya is an award-winning author of her book, In Solitude with God. Her poems have been published in various magazines and anthologies. She has a passion for writing for the Lord and glorifying His name through her writings. She loves and serves the Lord with her husband.
Surround yourself with people Who will encourage you To run the race that is set before you with endurance.
Surround yourself with people Who will remind you Of the unfading word of God The shining beacon of light.
Surround yourself with people Who will walk with you in sorrow Who will have an arm Around you in tribulation.
Surround yourself with people Who will have eyes and ears open To understand you as you are With your shortcomings.
Surround yourself with people Who have blazed the trail before you Who are living their life With utmost content in the Lord.
Surround yourself each day With the Lord’s unfailing love That are new every morning That are perfect in every way.
Click on book to purchase from Amazon.
Life has a funny way of giving us unexpected adventures and detours, and my wife Nancy and I have had more than a few over the 50 years we have shared. We have two sons, six lively grandsons and one very special granddaughter! I love to write about nursing home ministry, as well as devotional articles, poetry and even a few songs.
Peter has published the new book, A Christmas Treasury. It is a 30-day devotional. It begins with a week of looking at our Christmas carols, week two dives into the book of John. Next up are seven days with the wise men, shepherds, and Mary and Joseph, and finally a walk down memory lane, with some personal Christmas memories and treasures.
Then Jesus said, “Let’s go off by ourselves to a quiet place and rest awhile.”
Mark 6:31 NLT
With summer, along with its many activities and plans on our doorsteps, I began thinking about today’s verse and God’s invitation to rest. It is easy to get drawn into only the television version of rest, such as camping, going off on a cruise or spending a week in some exotic location. Though these all have their place, I am amazed at how rarely these give us the rest they promise. In the story linked to today’s verse, the disciples took Jesus up on HIs offer for some alone time, but things didn’t work out the way they had hoped. Instead, by the time they sailed to the other side of Galilee, large crowds were already eagerly waiting for them. So, did Jesus get it wrong? Were His vacation plans ruined? Or was Jesus offering a different kind of rest and a different sort of place to find it?
All through the Gospels, (especially Mark), Jesus appears to constantly be working. He is performing one miracle after another, going to another town every day, and barely having a moment to sleep. Yet, if we look a little closer at the life of Jesus we also find He is also always at rest. In Samaria, He rested by a well, while the disciples rushed into the village to buy food. But while was resting He told a woman, about living water, and she told the whole town! On another occasion, Jesus fell asleep in a boat, while the disciples were furiously rowing and baling water during a storm.
When in a panic, they did wake up Jesus, He immediately commanded, “Peace! Be still!” - and then everyone had rest!
Let’s take a moment in the story of Mary and Martha, because I think there we see best what kind of rest Jesus wants for us to know.
Now as they went on their way, Jesus entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to his teaching. But Martha was distracted with much serving…
Luke 10:38-40a ESV
Many of us are like Martha, exhausting ourselves with work. We hurry around, banging the pots and pans of our plans together. Maybe we take such delight in busyness because it gives us the illusion of control, and an excuse for not taking the time with God we should. But all the while, we are missing the rest that Mary discovered just by listening to Jesus. Once we learn to listen like Mary, then we can go to work with joy. Then the peace of God will carry us through storms, give us strength to serve when we are weary and teach us to wait by quiet wells for whatever God has on His agenda for us today!
Then Jesus said, “Let’s go off by ourselves to a quiet place and rest awhile.”
Mark 6:31 NLT
Come rest awhile from worry through the night From old regrets, and every hidden doubt From troubled minds where worries stalk about Come rest with Me where burdens become light
Resting in faith that sees beyond our sight
We rest in Christ from other’s expectations
A rest not based upon on our own foundations But promises unchangeable and bright
When in the storms, that we were going through We pray and think that maybe God’s asleep He asks “Where is your faith? For I will surely keep”
All who rest as you have seen Me do
Nicole is a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 14 years of experience in community mental health. She is the author of Remade: Living Free a book written for women in recovery from substance abuse and unhealthy relationships.
Nicole also maintains a blog at nicolebyrum.com as well as a podcast, 5 Minute Word. Both focus on topics related to faith and relationships. She lives in Northwest Ohio with her husband and two children. When she’s not writing, you can find her reading, running, or cooking.
Adoption is many things. It’s a choice and a commitment. It’s choosing to bring a child into a family and to treat them without distinction from a biological child. It’s also legal and final. Ultimately, it’s a beautiful act of love- and it’s what the eternal God has done for those who are in Christ.
When we trust in Christ, the Son of God, for salvation, we become united to him. He in us, and we in him! It’s through this union that we are counted as sons and daughters of God. Through Christ, we are adopted into God’s family with the full blessings and benefits of sonship. This means God loves us as He loves Christ; that He will never cast us out; and that we are joint heirs with Christ. How amazing is that?!
The writers of the New Testament express this theme of adoption repeatedly. The Apostle John wrote, “See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are” (1 John 3:1). In the book of Romans the Apostle Paul stated that we have received the Spirit of adoption as sons; we have received the Spirit that cries, “Abba! Father!” (Romans 8:15). In his letter to the Galatians, he put it this way: “For in Christ Jesus you are all sons of God, though faith…and if you are Christ’s, then you are Abraham’s offspring, heirs according to promise” (Galatians 3:26, 29).
I love those verses! But my favorite words of all regarding this matter come from Jesus. Just before his crucifixion, Jesus prayed a high priestly prayer. This prayer was not only for his disciples but for all who would believe in him. In his words, we are assured of the beautiful union we have with Christ. It’s also here we see the desire of our Savior for his people: that they would know the love of the Father. Consider his prayer:
“I in them and you in me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that you sent me and loved them even as you loved me… I made known to them your name, and I will continue to make it known, that the love with which you have loved me may be in them, and I in them” (John 17:23, 26).
In Christ, we are brought into the family of God as adopted children. As His child, God the Father lavishes His love upon us, loving us as He loves His Son. What security! We cannot be snatched from His hand nor can anything separate us from the love of God in Christ. We are His children forever.
Spend some quiet moments re-reading the above passages of Scripture. Thank God that He has called you into His love, into His family. Pray that He will give you strength to comprehend that you are truly His child.
Brianna is a Carolina girl that loves Jesus and her family. She enjoys watching the sunrise, photography, reading, writing, and paddleboarding. According to her teenage son, she’s a master chef in the kitchen, making gluten-free cuisine from around the world. Her writing has appeared in numerous publications, including Faith On Every Corner, Magazine, The Christian Journal, Our Story Magazine, and Broken But Priceless Magazine, where she writes the “From A Homemaker’s Heart” column. Check out her latest works at www.briannagrams.com and connect with her on Instagram @briannagrams or Facebook at www.facebook.com/ briannagrams1.
Have you ever fallen flat on your face? I mean, trip over something (or like me your own two feet) and face plant on the ground - fall on your face?
Sheepishly raising my hand because, oh yeah, I’ve done it. I’ve fallen flat on my face both physically and figuratively. I started thinking about this while I was on the floor praying. I was on my knees, with my head bent and I looked up.
“For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” (2 Corinthians 4:17-18 NIV).
What did I see when I looked up?
I stopped focusing on what was right in front of me - the next best thing, worrying about what was around the next curve, the next bend in the road. When I looked up, I started focusing on the One who made me. The One who puts the stars in the sky and knows the hairs on my head. I looked up.
“Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his face always.” (Psalm 105:4 NIV).
Sometimes we have to fall flat on our face, so our focus can be broken so we can surrender to God. That day as I was on the dining room floor, on my knees with my head bowed, I was pleading. I was pleading that God would answer my prayers. Oh, but I wanted the prayers answered in the way I thought was best.
“Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” (James 4:7 NIV)
When I was flat on my face, I had no place to look other than up. I had completely surrendered. The beauty in that moment was the beauty that God was in control. My focus all along should have been on Him all, not just on Him, but on His will and not my own.
I was wearing my son’s recent successes like a pageant sash. When I fell flat on my face I was finally able to surrender. I could see that my focus had been on the successes that would put a feather in my cap instead of on the will and the way of God.
“Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.” Romans 12:2 NLT
I learned a lot that day. I learned that it wasn’t about my son’s successes. We will all fall on our faces at some point, not because God is mean or bad or anything like that. We fall on our faces so that others can see His goodness and mercy through us. So He can lead others to Christ by telling His story.
God doesn’t want His children to suffer, He allows things to happen but He doesn’t cause bad things to happen. He lets His children fall on their faces so that He can be glorified. We have to fall on our faces in order to see God’s glory in all that He is and is doing through us.
I lay on the floor, kind of because I was stuck and kind of because I needed to stay in prayer. I looked up, and I raised my hands, waving my white flag of surrender. I surrendered to God.
“When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you.” Isaiah 43:2 NLT
I know why we go through the deep valleys, the rough waters, and the fire. You are bringing us up to the mountaintop, you are teaching us to be good sailors and you are mending/forging us into what You desire. Sometimes we will jump into the fire on our own, causing us to complain when we don’t wait on God and His timing. God allows it. He allows us to wallow in our sorrows, but He doesn’t leave us there. He doesn’t leave us face down, He doesn’t leave us in the storms. He brings us through, sometimes a little stronger, sometimes a little tired, but no matter what we are changed. No matter what you are facing today, stop and look up. Look up and surrender because Only God can. Only God.
Steve Carter lives in Tupelo, Mississippi. He is a Bible college graduate, military and hospice chaplain, and musician.
Steve may be contacted by email at: Msroadkill@bellsouth.net
The blinding glare caused me to pull my helmet forward and down a bit as I rode into the afternoon sun. Pedaling into Spokane, Washington meant maintenance for my bicycle and pain relief for me! With just a fraction of the 3,200-mile, cross-country trip completed, I found myself “saddle sore” (you cyclist out there KNOW what I mean) and “bone weary.”
Traveling near the front of two hundred bicyclists, I snaked my way toward Gonzaga University. This usually uneventful task barely dodged disaster, when a speeding car blasted through our group, sending bicyclists scattering. After calling the driver everything except a fine fellow, we all calmed down and located our dormitory rooms for the night. After securing my bike in a closet, I headed for the laundry
While my clothes were washing, some of the others went into town in search of music and “adult beverages.” After 400 miles on the road, my needs were met with a big meal, and something besides the ground to sleep on
Around midnight, the overhead light came on and Wendall, a cyclist from New England staggered in and fell into his bed. After asking how a man from Mississippi trained for mountain bicycling and finding out I had next to no experience in anything resembling a mountain, he mumbled something about me “needing a lot of luck,” and went to sleep.
Following a day off, the group put down a “hearty” breakfast before heading to Idaho. Wendall and I teamed up and pedaled into the sunrise, enjoying the cool morning and limited traffic. At first, because I’m in the ministry, Wendall showed a little wariness of me. This skepticism soon faded as we became fast friends. Heading due east, our conversation centered on various aspects of Christianity. I found him to be very intelligent and concise with his questions, and we spent much fruitful time in open-minded, earnest discussions.
About thirty miles into the day, I started to notice signs indicating a “Rodeo Days Parade,” in Newport, ten miles down the road.
Click photo to purchase Steve’s book from Amazon.com
Even cross-country bicyclists “love a parade,” so off we went, jamming gears and standing up on our pedals for extra speed! While blazing down the road, as is my habit, I glanced in my mirror. Usually, all I see is other bicyclists or traffic. But this time, coming right at me are the horns of a huge steer! The steer, which barely fit in the back of a pick-up truck, had horns that filled up the edge of the road. I leaned to the right and ducked just as they zoomed over my head with inches to spare! This proved to be the first of many close calls before I reached Washington D.C. But then, I knew the trip would be dangerous, so I just kept riding.
We made it in time for the parade and didn’t miss a thing. Following the color guard, came local cheerleaders, doing cartwheels and waving pom poms! A logging truck filled with freshly cut pine trees drew applause, leaving no doubt that we were in timber country! Following the truck, a couple of our riders, having joined the parade came riding down the street, waving to the crowd. This got good-natured laughs and hoots from the other cyclists who were grinning from the curb. More shouts announced two men dressed like “hillbillies” who rounded the corner throwing rubber chickens into the air and blasting away at them with toy shotguns. These “mountain men” inspired me to run into the street to pose with them for a fun picture. With the parade winding down, and me feeling much refreshed, I hopped on my bike and started riding while dodging “horse apples.”
While settling into my saddle, a light rain started to fall. Despite the spray coming off passing cars, my smile never faded, as I bid a cheerful farewell to Newport, Washington.
I finished the eighty-mile ride into Sandpoint, Idaho, and quickly set up my tent before any heavy rain had a chance to catch up with me. After supper, I witnessed those who did a lot of sightseeing during the day, come dragging into camp, cold, wet, and hungry. I quickly checked my tent and found it dry and cozy, then pitched in with some other “Good Samaritans” to help get the late comers settled for the night.
In this life, hardships, are expected. While many suffered from a lack of planning, my caution kept me dryer and safer than most. With no experience to guide me through nearly being knocked over by a steer’s horn, God’s lifelong habit of “watching my back” paid off.
Not maintaining our relationship with God, is like going against the bicycle mechanics’ advice. Just let your bike fall apart from neglect and you’ll see how much fun it is being stranded beside the road! Let your prayer life grow stale or don’t follow what He put in His Word, and you’ll learn all there is to know about misery!
Keep God close, it’s dangerous out there……..
Rolanda T. Pyle is a licensed social worker and works in the field of aging with seniors, caregivers, and grandparents raising grandchildren. Rolanda is the author of the books: “Grandma’s Hands” - a children’s storybook, “Finally” - a collection of inspirational poems; and the compiler of and contributor to “Beneath His Everlasting Wings”, a collection of devotionals. Her work has been published in religious and community newspapers, anthologies, collections and journals. In April 2004, New York’s Daily News named her one of the “100 Women Who Shape Our City.” Her website is www.rorosrainbowcommunications.com
Not feeling well, Sick again
Another doctor’s appointment
More medication
Another co-payment
More tests
A referral to another specialist
More talk about surgery
It just keeps going and going, when will it end?
I have to look to the only one on whom I can depend.
He said, “By His stripes I’m healed and healing is the children’s bread.”
Those are only two of His healing promises that I have read.
So I hold on to them and believe that one day I’ll be free
Of all these conditions that currently plague me!
Rolanda Pyle (c) All Rights Reserved
The Blackout of 2003 came as a surprise. One minute we were all in the light, and the next minute in the dark. Sometimes darkness comes slowly. The light dims, flickers and then goes out. One minute you are walking in light and slowly, moment by moment, before you know it you are in the dark!
Twenty-two hours later, with 50 million people across the East Coast affected and we still had no lights. Why no lights? Because something happened to the power.
What a life lesson. Unless we are hooked up to the power, we are in the dark. I can think of times in my life when there was no power, and therefore the light was dim. Darkness engulfed me.
When unforgiveness reigned, and bitterness, self-pity and resentment sat on the throne-- that was when darkness engulfed me.
When extreme shyness and self-consciousness kept me in a shell that I was unable to break out of and be myself-- that’s when darkness engulfed me.
When my words were deceitful, and lies flowed instead of truth-- that is when darkness engulfed me.
When I became involved in that relationship that brought nothing but pain to me and to others-- that is when darkness engulfed me.
When I couldn’t love others like I should, and I really didn’t even love myself-- that is when darkness engulfed me.
When I could not accept that wonderful man who came into my life, so I listened to others-- instead of following my heart, that is when darkness engulfed me.
But thanks be to God that darkness could not stay. Once I got connected to the power source and allowed light back in, it began to chase away the darkness, moment by moment-- slowly, patiently, persistently.
I hooked back up to the power source, through prayer, worship, reading and studying the word and obedience. The light began to flicker and now it shines brightly. And darkness no longer engulfs me.
“When Jesus spoke again to the people, He said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me, will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” John 8:12
There are two sides to getting older One where you have gained wisdom that makes you bolder But then there is the side when your body starts to fail Aches, pains, diseases …things that make you ail.
There is the respect you get from others as you age And the joy you feel each time, you turn another page…
…Of your life, that causes you to reflect on where you’ve been
And how you want to spend the rest of your life before it ends!
Often our bodies break down and won’t cooperate
More medical appointments for checkups and prescriptions to medicate
Our pace is slower and often memory dims
And we can feel the pain in our joints and limbs.
If we live long enough, there’s one thing for sure
We all get older and age more and more
But the best thing about getting older is that we are still here
To accomplish all our dreams and enjoy this life, we hold so dear.
Shara Bueler-Repka is enjoying life as a singer/songwriter/recording artist, freelance writer, and award-winning author. She and her husband, Bruce, live in their living quarters horse trailer and call “home” wherever their rig is parked. Their mail-base, however, is Hallettsville, Texas. She loves sharing God’s Word through music with her husband, riding their horses (aka The Boys) in the backcountry, and writing about God’s grace in their various adventures on the trail less traveled.
Well, I didn’t get the bush or the wall, but God spoke through a trusted friend of mine. When He spoke to her spirit, she wasted no time delivering the message. Her blonde hair and blue eyes seemed to disappear as I stared at her and realized God was speaking through her to me. God told me exactly what I needed to do, with a point-blank urgency in the tone. My friend also repeated a phrase that the Lord had spoken to me that no one knew further confirming that she was speaking on His behalf.
His “still small voice” spurred me on throughout the next week: I read scripture verses that appeared to jump off the page; Words, not my own, trailed through my thoughts. These nudges encouraged me to take that first step of faith and gave my bosses notice when they came in the following Monday.
I needed courage as I considered my two ministry bookings, tiny savings, and BIG truck payment. “I am your Provider,” He stated. “I was the One who gave you such awesome employers. They were good to you and paid you well. How much more do you think I will take care of you as your direct ‘employer’? I am your Provider ... period.” (He talked to me on my level of understanding.)
He also “hot-shotted” me with, “How can you minister about faith and then shrink back when I ask you to step out?” Ohhhh, that got me! “O.K. Lord,” I decided, “I’m goin’ for it.”
I dove into God’s Word to stay strong. Looking up the word “faith” in the concordance of my Bible, I read every verse under it. The Lord made it clear through His Word that He would take care of us in this decision of faith— just like He did Abraham, Moses, Noah, David, etc. (the list is a mile long). I took hold of Hebrews 13:8 and believed, beyond a shadow of a doubt, He wouldn’t let us down either.
After I handed in my resignation, I noticed and loved the way the Lord took care of my bosses, too. He made the transition easier for them by allowing me to wrap up loose ends and train someone to take my place.
Bruce and I hit the road on a ministry trip. During the following days, I had to stand and fight for my faith. The love offerings and CD sales were low because of the economy. The spirit of fear tried to overwhelm me with questions about provision. I fought back by speaking out the Word Of God: “Seek first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you”—Matthew 6:33; “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths”—Proverbs 3:5-6; “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you”—Matthew 7:7.
The Lord stood with me in my mind battle. “Are the bills due yet?” He asked me.
“No,” I replied.
“Have you paid your truck payment?” He inquired. “Yes.”
“Is the next one due yet?”
“Well, ... no.”
“Do you need that money now?” “OK ... no.”
“I am not early. I’m not late. I am right on time,” He encouraged.
I also kept hearing the words, “It only takes one.” Hmmm.
Our last ministry stop on that trip proved to be a profound testimony that we often reflect on. God used one person to meet all of our financial needs. And the bonus? The cost was covered for an annual family trip we thought we’d have to cancel. (Ephesians 3:20-21)
God confirmed His Word—right on time.
Bruce and I are now in our seventeenth year of full-time ministry together, and we’ve never looked back. The Lord is always faithful. He loves our “Boys” (horses) too, making sure we always have what we need for them as well. (Psalm 36:5-6).
As the years have progressed, the Lord has opened up new avenues of ministry. It’s not just about the music. He sends us to places where there are huge practical needs and cries for help. The list of “helps” has grown throughout the years.
In these perilous and confusing times, we must watch for and step into those God-given opportunities with our God-given gifts and talents. He is waiting on us to be His light in the huge darkness around us. (Matthew 5:14-16)
We were all born for “such a time as this,” and God is faithful to see us through to the end.
“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them”—Ephesians 2:10.
Laurie Glass has a heart for encouraging others through her writing. She has had many poems and articles published in both print and online publications. Laurie is a contributing writer for Chronic Joy, a ministry for those affected by chronic illness and other health issues. In addition, she won the Open Medicine Foundation poetry contest in 2019.
Laurie Glass
Ready to lend a hand, so hard-working and strong, loyal, honest, and true, my hero all along.
Better traits in a dad would be hard to find.
You were reliable, humble, rugged, and kind.
As a man of few words, you meant what you said, what you didn’t say, came through actions instead.
You led our family, the best I could have had, I’m ever so grateful that you were my dad.
Upon the throne and listening to testament of who He is.
Adoring voices glorify, exalted praise and honor His.
Delighted Father basking in angelic chorus crystal clear. As they relinquish all to Him, so pleased to have His children near.
Approach Him with sincerity, with happy face or with a tear. So intimate and beautiful, each word is welcome to His ear.
Surrendered souls enrapture Him, feels honored by sweet serenade.
Appreciates this offering of such enthralling music made.
Adoring joyful melodies enthusiastically displayed.
He sees their hearts so genuine, wholehearted as they are portrayed.
Collective voices harmonize, like harp and orchestra, they sing. Each player is sincere, unique, of equal value ev’ry string.
Majestic sounds erupt in praise, triumphantly in worship sing. Strong voices holding nothing back in full submission to the King.
Upon the throne and listening to testament of who He is.
Adoring voices glorify, exalted praise and honor His.
Click on cover photo to see Laurie’s books on Amazon.com
Karen has a background in broadcasting, television and radio, and as a writer for several newspapers. She started her own marketing agency and enjoys working with her husband, Craig.
She is an author, photographer, graphic artist, and writer.
Our Pastor Mack has been preaching a series on Heaven, All That and More. It has been a wonderful series filled with the promises that God has given us. As I was reading more of Revelation, these verse struck me again today.
Then the angel said to me, “Everything you have heard and seen is trustworthy and true. The Lord God, who inspires his prophets, has sent his angel to tell his servants what will happen soon.” Revelation 22:6
Jesus is coming. “Look, I am coming soon! Blessed are those who obey the words of prophecy written in this book.” Revelation 22:7
You know, the Bible isn’t really complicated. All of the instructions are there for us to read and follow. I recommend sitting with your Bible and Study Bible, pray first, then read and look up the meaning of the verses in your Study Bible.
Next, find a good Bible based church. Don’t just go in and sit, shake hands and let people know you are visiting.
I am praying that you know Christ Jesus, if you do not or want to know more, again, go to church and get involved.
Read The Prayer of Repentance, Psalm 51 1-19. Give your life to Christ today.
I am praying for you, if you have questions, please ask. God bless you all, God loves you and so do I.
Mike Hall has authored two collections of poetry, Autumn's Back Porch and Thinking Out Loud. His work has appeared in Spirit Fire Review, Pure in Heart Stories, Foreshadow Magazine, Solid Food Press, Clayjar Review, Agape Review, and Modern Reformation. His words are meant to encourage others in their daily walk through life's journey. He has been a teacher for 44 years. He and his wife, Cynthia, live in the Dallas, Texas area.
Psalm 146:2 I will praise the Lord all my life; I will sing praise to my God as long as I live. NIV
I, once again, stand battered and bruised, baring my soul, stripping it to its core, standing fully exposed before God, confessing my inadequacies, my frailty, understanding His mercy is required because goodness will never be enough.
I turn my eyes heavenward and offer praise . . .
I praise His wonderful creation because it reminds me of His power and glory. I praise Him for the blessings of my life because all things come from Him.
I praise His kindness and mercy because without them, I would be doomed.
I praise His patience because I constantly lean on my own understanding, only to return, asking for His forgiveness.
I praise Him for His everlasting faithfulness because His promises are never broken even when I find myself breaking mine.
I praise His unconditional love because it is still offered when I falter and drift away.
He remains unchanged, my anchor in a stormy sea, my fixed North Star. As long as I draw breath, I will continue to praise Him because He is the Great I Am.
I sat and thought of all the craziness in the world, Gun violence seeming to erupt almost every day –With no rhyme nor reason as to the why –A war raging out of control, half a world away.
Hunger plagues too many in too many places. Too many are searching for any type of relief. The disease-ravaged are too many to count. Hope is fading because too many have lost belief.
My troubled mind was saddled with questions. Does God still care about this world He had made? Was He no longer in control of His creation? Why did He seem reluctant to come to its aid?
Where was God in all this disruption?
He just seemed absent in this theater of the absurd. My mind kept searching for proof of His presence When my eye was drawn to a flitting hummingbird.
The tiny body hovered, its wings a miraculous blur, The blossom’s sweet smell, an open invite of its good will, The sweet nectar it craved, so tantalizingly close –Working hard to still itself so it could drink its fill.
I observed it dance with awe and wonder, Marveling at its ability to feed as it did. I kept looking for strings suspending it in air, Not quite believing it could defy gravity’s bid.
It went about its work, unaware of its audience. It did not view its actions as miraculous, as did I, Its appearance, a sample of God’s handiwork on display, A subtle reminder of His presence before my eye.
This tiny emissary gave my mind a sense of peace. Its simple message could not be missed: No matter the state of this tormented world, As long as God is present, hope can still exist.
All God’s grace in one little face –Words carved on the tombstone’s surface,
Words which hint at her short life’s story, A life not quite nine but filled with God’s glory.
Her little body was bound to a metal chair, But her heart was pure with love and care.
No words would be uttered from her little lips, But her laugh could make one’s heart do flips.
The smile lighting up her face when family walked in Spoke loudly and clearly of the love held within.
So, was the living of her life just a big mistake? Knowing her life would end in eventual heartache.
Isn’t every life, no matter how short, worthy of love? Isn’t every life created watched over by God above?
Each day she was granted was a miraculous gift; Each day her presence gave all an emotional lift.
Her few precious years touched others in a special way; The memory of her short stay brightens many a sad day.
She is now in God’s heaven, whole and complete, Holding His hand as she walks the golden street.
One day she will welcome at heaven’s gate Those who made her short life on Earth first rate.
Then she will no longer from them be apart; She can then utter the words filling her heart.
“Thanks for letting my life be meaningful and worthwhile. Thanks for making my days hopeful, allowing me to smile.
“Thanks for not treating my life as a mistake For taking me in so with your life I could partake.”
Looking up with shining eyes from her radiant face, Risa was the picture of God’s love and grace.
Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.
Get ready. Change is going to happen. The winds of change are always blowing, sometimes gently, at other times with hurricane force. These winds are an inevitable part of life, whether welcome or unwelcome. Just as the seasons change, life has its own set of change cycles –school, jobs, relationships, parenting, aging. They are anything but routine, so why should we seem surprised when these changes occur? or even shocked by their frequency?
Transition is about managing change. Change at any time, no matter what stage of life in which it occurs, is challenging. It is the unwelcome change that becomes frustrating and flat out scary. These transitions can tax our faith to the breaking point. Fear creeps into our heart, paralyzing our ability to cope; doubt multiplies, crippling our confidence to handle what is thrown our way. It is in these moments we must lean on God, not ourselves. We are limited. God is not unless we do the limiting.
In my way of thinking transitions are never seamless. The word itself tells us the current state of things is about to evolve into something different. Mistakes are going to happen (inevitable – that word again) but must be viewed as temporary, part of learning, not as failures. They must be seen as opportunities for growth and understanding. Failure never becomes part of the equation unless we give in and quit. God created us in His image with the capacity to adapt and grow, but He never promised us an easy journey along life’s path. He did promise to be by our side every step of this Earthly journey we are walking, even through all those pesky transitions. It is up to us to reach out and ask for His help and guidance, but in so doing, we must trust in where He will lead us, gaining strength from His presence.
Let Him fill us with confidence, removing our doubt and fear, little . . . by . . . little. We need to pray for courage to overcome our fears, remembering that courage is not the absence of fear. Without fear, there is no need for courage. John Wayne said it this way, “Courage is being scared to death, but saddling up anyway.” Do not be afraid to step up to the plate and swing for the fences. To paraphrase Teddy Roosevelt, “It is better to dare mighty things than to stand on the side with those timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat.” To quote the apostle Paul, “I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me.” So, embrace those life-changing opportunities God sends our way. View them as God’s way of helping us learn to depend on Him. We can accomplish more than we think we are capable of if we allow Him to use us, even though we might get a little bruised along the way.
Donna is a preschool curriculum writer for Lifeway and loves teaching two year olds at her church, Hudson First Baptist. She is a retired elementary school media coordinator and K-1 teacher. She loves all childrenespecially her 4 grandchildren! She loves to read, scrapbook, and make cards. Donna lives in Hudson, NC with her husband, Lewis. They enjoy traveling together.
Our family vacations in the 1960s with my parents and two younger brothers, are among my favorite memories. One day of vacation stands out as the one we have talked and laughed about the most through the years.
It began in a hotel room, with Dad waking up and saying in a slightly panicked voice, “We overslept. We need to get on the road!” It was 8:00 a.m. and we had a full travel day ahead. I was ten and rolled off the rollaway as my mom started getting David, my three year old brother, ready. She tapped on her watch, “I think my watch has stopped!” Mom reset her watch to match Dad’s because Daddy’s watch was always right. My eight year old brother, Jeff, got up and we all quickly packed the suitcases and hurried to breakfast in the restaurant downstairs. It was peak breakfast time so Dad was relieved that the restaurant was almost empty. We ate quickly and were on the road by 9:15.
We made good time but Mom had to set her watch several times because it seemed to be losing time. Dad promised to buy her a new one tomorrow when we weren’t running behind schedule. We stopped late for lunch, about 1:30 according to Daddy’s watch. The restaurant had a giant “Grand Opening”sign and we realized it was their very first day to be open. It was a nice restaurant, but the service was slow. Mom commented that she was glad we hadn’t stopped during the lunch rush and wondered how they had survived.
Several hours later, we passed through a town with a giant clock that said 2:00. Dad glanced at his watch and it was already 5:00! We laughed that they needed to set their clock… and of course, Mom set hers to match Dad’s again, because Daddy’s watch is always right.
We finally got to our new hotel and ate a late supper. We settled into our room. As mom rolled her hair and got David dressed for bed, Jeff and I stood on the balcony. There was a K- Mart across the road and we commented that we could go get Mom a new watch. We admired the pool and wished we could go swimming. Daddy came out to tell us it was past our bedtime. I glanced at the pool where several young kids were splashing and at K-Mart where people were still shopping and asked, “What time is it?”
Dad looked at his watch and said, ‘Nine o’clock.” Puzzled, I asked, “Why are they still swimming and shopping? And look, it hasn’t even started to get dark.” Daddy checked his watch again and then went in to call the front desk. It was actually only 5:30! We laughed and laughed. We think we had eaten breakfast at 6:30 before the crowd. We were probably the first lunch guests at the new restaurant at 11:00. No wonder they didn’t know what they were doing! Best of all it wasn’t our bedtime yet! Daddy’s watch was wrong that morning and gained time all day.
We all got a fresh wind. Mom put David’s clothes back on and took her curlers out. We went to K-Mart and bought Daddy a new watch and then everyone had a good time swimming before bedtime. What a day!
Until that day, I truly believed that Daddy’s watch was always right. In fact, I believed that everything Daddy said or did was right. I learned that my dad was a pretty special guy but not perfect by any means.
However, I have a Heavenly Father who is always on time. In Genesis 1:1, we learn that “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” That was just the beginning! God had a plan and He carried it out at the right time. He created our amazing Earth, space, plants, animals, humans and all the things that we enjoy daily.
Then my Heavenly Father saw that we were making a mess of things and we needed a Savior. When the time was right, He sent Jesus! Paul writes, “When the time came to completion, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons.” (Galatians 4:4-5)
God knows me even better than Daddy knew me. Psalm 139:16 says that “Your eyes saw me when I was formless; all my days were written in your book and planned before a single one of them began.” I can relax in that knowledge! He wants me to use the days He gives me well. In Psalm 90:12, we read, “Teach us to number our days carefully so that we may develop wisdom in our hearts.”
Most important, God has a plan for Jesus to come back! In John 14:28, He reminds us: “You have heard me tell you, ‘I am going away and I am coming to you.’”
Man-made plans (and watches), even those involving a loving Dad are going to fail us sometimes, but God’s timing is perfect! God has a plan for us and wants us to seek Him daily.
(All scripture is CSB - Christian Standard Bible)
Dr. Kathleen B. Oden is an author, missionary, and Bible teacher. She has been the Administrator of God’s House of Refuge Church & School of Evangelism, for 25 years. Dr. Oden attained a Doctorate degree in Christian Theology in 2000. After a bad fall in 2014, she realized that she had to start eating healthy, in order to fully recover. She became a Certified Health Minister and a Certified Essential Oil Coach. She loves ministering to people and God gave her a health ministry called, Create AnewU Health Ministry. Her health ministry has opened the door for her to share what the WORD OF GOD has to say about eating healthy. Dr. Oden has published over 20 books through Amazon.com and several of them are about health and wellness. https://createanewuhealthministry.com
We feel confident when we believe something is the truth or true. But due to the drama in the world today, things seem to come all too often to shake our confidence and test our faith. Therefore, finding true confidence can seem like a very hard task at times. Yet, as believers, we are called to anchor our hearts not in this world, but in the eternal promises of Christ. The scriptures provide us with a roadmap to not only guide us toward confidence in Christ but also to keep us on the right path. And the right path will always lead us to righteousness and to having confidence in Christ.
Our confidence is not a mere feeling but a fortress, a place of refuge that shields us from the storms of life. It is in the reverence of the Lord that we find divine confidence so strong, it becomes our sanctuary. We find a place of refuge when we choose to abide in the divine confidence of Christ.
2 Corinthians 7:4 says, “Great is my boldness of speech toward you, great is my glorying of you: I am filled with comfort, I am exceeding joyful in all our tribulation.” Our confidence in Christ enables us to speak boldly, to rejoice even in tribulation, Apostle Paul, and to glorify Yahweh in all circumstances. It transforms our whole outlook on life, allowing us to see beyond life’s challenges.
This exhortation reminds us that our confidence in Christ is not only our present strength but also our future hope. It is a confidence that carries with it the promise of reward, a divine assurance that our faith and trust in Christ are never in vain. No matter how things look or feel or seem to be, we can have confidence in Christ knowing that it is well! Hebrews 10:35, “Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompense of reward.”
That means we can be confident knowing that Christ is still working on us. He has not left us undone. He is the author and finisher of our faith. However, we must believe and have confidence that He will do it. It is a confidence that rests on the promise that the transformative work Christ has begun in us will be brought to completion.
Now that we know how important it is to have divine confidence, let us walk in the assurance that our confidence is not based on our abilities but on the unchanging character of Yahweh, who is faithful to complete the work He has started in us. May our hearts be ever anchored in His divine confidence, for in Christ, we have every reason to stand firm in faith if we continue to hold on to our divine confidence.
We also get a “reward” when we eat healthy and live a healthy life. Our reward is that we feel better and we may even live longer. Our health and body starts to change for the better. It might seem to take a while but we have to have confidence that when we treat our bodies right then our bodies will respond. One example is weight loss. Sometimes it can take a while and people may give up trying.
However, if you want the reward (look slim and trim or just feel better) then you have to stick with it. You have to hang in there and have confidence in the process and/or program. Also, sometimes people do not follow instructions. And therefore do not get the results they expected. This can also happen if we do not follow what the Word tells us about confidence. Some people cast it away because they feel it is not working. The Word always works if we hold on to our devine confidence in Christ!
This recipe is designed to boost metabolism while reminding us of the divine confidence we carry within us.
**Ingredients:**
- 1 frozen banana (for sweetness and creamy texture)
- ½ cup frozen mixed berries (for antioxidants and vibrant color)
- 1 scoop of your favorite protein powder (for muscle repair and growth)
- 1 tablespoon flaxseed meal (for Omega-3s and fiber)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (for metabolism boost)
- ½ cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of your choice)
- Toppings: sliced almonds, chia seeds, fresh berries, and a drizzle of honey (for extra energy and crunch)
**Instructions:**
Blend until smooth & creamy - the frozen banana, mixed berries, protein powder, flaxseed meal, cinnamon, and almond milk.
Pour & Decorate - Pour the smoothie mixture into a bowl. Decorate with:sliced almonds for wisdom, chia seeds for endurance, fresh berries for joy, & a drizzle of honey for sweetness.
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I am so blessed to be able to work with Melody on her Theo series. This one is filled with sweetness as Theo meets Myrtle who is autistic. They become friends and share a love for chocolate.
Parents, I encourage you to read this book with your kids and discuss it as you go. Melody has questions at the back of the book too!
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Theo Meets Myrtle and Freddie Meets Luly published by:
Reviewed by
Karen RuhlI had so much fun working with Pam on this Freddie book. Freddie is just like most cats and loves to explore. He meets a friend in his garden and gets in a bit of a snag with his parents.
Read out loud to your kids and have a fun time. Watch for more Freddie books coming soon!
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Reviewed by Karen
Ruhl
I was pleasantly surprised when I started reading this book. I must confess, I read it in one sitting - made myself comfy and read it straight through. Your kids will love this adventure of a young girl moving to a new town and trying to adjust to loss. You won’t want to miss the surprise twist either - Who’ll Pick Me should be on your children’s bookshelf!
Click on book to go to Amazon.
Howard Isom is an author and speaker. You can learn more about Howard by visiting https://hemakesallthingsnewministry.com/about-howard-isom/
Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. For the past couple of days, I’ve been thinking on the idea of God being the God that gives second chances. Today I want to share with you the recent events that have led me to think about this and write the following article.
First some history – In 2017, while still incarcerated, I was allowed to go out to church on sponsor passes. My sponsor would pick me up on Sunday morning early enough so that we could go to the church’s Family Life Center, have a cup of coffee and fellowship with people there before church began.
I met a lady that I would talk to for a few minutes each Sunday. Over the course of a couple of years, I talked with this lady quite a bit. We developed a pretty good friendship. Fast forward to 2021- When I was released from prison, I went back to the church and after a couple of weeks noticed that this woman was no longer there. After inquiring about this lady, I discovered that she was now living in an assisted living facility.
I decided to visit her and have continued to do so. Mary and I have taken her to church a few times and out to eat. I learned that her birthday is on April 20. A couple days prior to her birthday last week, I stopped by her facility after work to see if she would like to go out and eat for her birthday. She excitedly said yes. I asked her what she would like to eat, and she replied that she would think about it. Before I left, she asked if we could go to a steakhouse. It had been a while. I let her know that we could and that we would take her to our favorite steakhouse. We set the time that I would pick her up the following Saturday and I hugged her goodbye.
When I arrived to pick her up, she let me know that her roommate had a question for me. She wanted to know if I would stop and get her some Bojangles chicken while we were out if she would pay for it. I told her that I would be glad to, and I would pay for it. We left and had a great time at the steakhouse. As we were leaving, a man approached me and asked if I was Howard Isom. I acknowledged that I was, and he proceeded to tell me who he was.
I had worked with him prior to going to prison. He had watched my life as it spiraled more and more out of control, ultimately leading to prison. He asked how I was doing and stated that he was glad to see that I was doing well. I shared with him about the goodness of God, that God had been kind, forgiving, and very merciful to me.
When we got back to the facility, I checked the lady back in and gave the chicken to her roommate. They both began to express how appreciative they were. With tears in her eyes, the lady we had taken out said, “you are like a son to me”. I shared with them that my mom had spent the last 5 years of her life in a facility like the one they were in, and how I was not able to be there for her. She died while I was in prison. I told them that I thanked God for putting them in my life and giving me the opportunity to be a blessing to them. What a great day it was!
Later that evening walking through my yard thinking on the events of the day, my heart was filled with gratitude that God had given me a second chance at life. A second chance to be a husband, a second chance to be a dad, and a second chance to be a son to a mother.
O, How I praise Him, how I praise Him!
The Merriam – Webster dictionary gives the definition of second chance as an opportunity to try something again after failing one time. Another dictionary states that a second chance is an opportunity to redeem oneself after a previous error or failure.
Biblically, a second chance deals with God’s forgiveness and redemption. From the Garden of Eden and throughout the entire word of God we can clearly see God’s plan of redemption. His plan is based on second chances. From the moment Adam and Eve were deceived, and sinned, God wrapped them up in His love, covered their shame, and set His plans in motion to redeem their mistakes.
We can find in both the Old and New Testaments story after story that bear witness to a God of second chances. Think of Moses, who was a murderer but then God appointed him to lead millions out of slavery. There’s Jonah who ran from God’s command or King David who committed adultery and had a man murdered. Rahab, who was a prostitute in Jericho and Matthew was a tax collector and considered the scum of the earth before Jesus called him to “Follow me.” Then there’s Peter, who denied even knowing Jesus after spending three years with Him. The thief on the cross received a second chance for eternal life. Each of these—and dozens of other men and women like them in Scripture—stand as monuments and trophies of God’s grace.
One of the amazing facets of God’s character is His incredible patience with us. “Who is a God like you, who pardons sin and forgives the transgression of the remnant of his inheritance? You do not stay angry forever but delight to show mercy” (Micah 7:18 NIV) “ But thou, O Lord, art a God full of compassion, and gracious, long suffering, and plenteous in mercy and truth. (Psalm 86:15 KJV) The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance. (2 Peter 3:9 NKJV)
Janice Alonso has been published for over twenty years in Christian, children’s, nonfiction, fiction, and mystery markets worldwide. She also uses her gift of writing to conduct workshops, coach beginning writers, and compose cards and letters for family and friends. Currently, she leads a writers’ group in a Biblically-based format.
Please visit her Author Page to explore all her writings. https://books2read.com/ap/ RavlzJ/Janice-Alonso
All parent-child relationships are unique. My mother and father divorced when I was around a year old and she remarried when I was seven. My stepfather died when I was sixteen and my mother was thirty-seven. She never remarried. I have been married for many years, but as far as my first family unit, it was most always just Mother and me.
Independence was the most valuable lesson my mother instilled in me. She learned early on how to be self-reliant by surviving in a world that at the time wasn’t understanding of a divorced woman and a single, female breadwinner. She, too, learned to be fiercely independent. Our combined independence is what made her fall, and eventually her transition to an assisted living facility, so difficult for us both. We butted heads: she didn’t want people, me especially, calling the shots, and I resented these new demands on my time.
It took several years for us to adjust, but through prayer and support from my friends, we found a happy, common ground. What I learned, was that she was afraid of being abandoned and forgotten. She needed constant reminders of my love. This was the easier part once I understood that. I am happy to say she loved her new normal and felt confident of my love through regular visits from family and friends, and especially my visits and conversations about people in her life, past and present.
Enter Covid-19.
Like many others, her facility went into lockdown and the residents had to remain in their rooms, and for many months, she did not see a face without a mask. This isolation brought on delusions. Each time I spoke with her on the phone, I could hear her slipping farther and farther away, and there seemed to be nothing I could do about it. I, too, was in a lockdown of my own.
One of my biggest blessings was that my Ladies Bible Study group continued its weekly meetings via Zoom. Many of us had a parent in the same situation. We consoled and prayed for each other. We prayed for our confused parents and all the elderly and their caregivers. During one of our sessions, we thought of another way to foster love and combat feelings of abandonment and isolation.
We began writing notes to each other’s parents. My mother loved it, and her spirits and attitude lifted from the time she received the first letter in her mailbox. She thought these cards were from friends from her past who were writing to her. It didn’t matter that she’d never met these women. What did matter to her was that someone remembered her and told her they loved her. Isolated? Yes. But forgotten and unloved? Never. Mother passed in June 2021.
When I went to “clear out her room,” I found a basket filled with all our cards, cards filled with notes of hope, encouragement, and prayers for healing and comfort. The caregivers said my mother read them over and over or had someone else read them to her. Our words brought joy, peace, and reassurance.
While cards and phone calls don’t replace actual one-on-one visits, my experience is they have a positive influence on not only the one being written to, but the one penning the letter as well. I’ve learned through correspondence or a conversation with a loved one that the elderly in these circumstances look forward to any contact from the outside world. I had one experience that brought unexpected joy and a broad smile.
Toward the end of that first summer during Covid, one of my friends told me that her stepmother, Grace, was depressed and felt abandoned and that no one loved her anymore. She felt had forgotten about her. Several years ago, my friend’s father died, leaving her stepmother a widow. Then in the beginning of 2020, before Covid, her son moved her to an assisted living home close to him in Florida. I added Grace to my list.
A few days before Thanksgiving, my friend called to wish me a Happy Thanksgiving. She had a funny story for me. She’d just gotten off the phone with her stepmother and said that Grace had been more animated than she’d been for months. The reason? Grace had a boyfriend. Grace went on to say that he lived in my friend’s neighborhood. Then she read one of the notes. It was one of the notes I’d written. I laughed and told her not to correct her stepmother’s thinking. I’d been a lot of things in my life, but I’d never been a boyfriend before, but I’d give this new calling my best shot. That was another thing I’ve learned in relating to the elderly: sometimes it’s best to just join their world. Initially, I corrected my mother when she remembered things wrong. It only ended up upsetting us both.
My mother-in-law used to wear a T-shirt that proclaimed, “Growing old ain’t for sissies.” Amen. While taking its toll on the aged, it takes a huge toll on the caregiver, as well. By continually assuring my mother of my love and others love for her, I could join her world where we connected on a common ground and found comfort.
The End
We have one of the most beautiful walking parks close to us. The Broyhill Walking Park is in Lenoir, North Carolina. It has 2 lakes, a waterfall, a great walking path, bathrooms, trees for shade, a deck to watch the turtles and geese, and so much more. It is about 20 minutes from my house, easy to get to and so safe.
I am trying to get back to walking and this park makes it easy and fun. Families come and let their kids walk and explore, dog owners walk their dogs, and many walk alone as I did tonight.
As I walked, I had a long conversation with God. He is such a good listener! I once heard that we should not talk too much with Him. Most of what I read says God loves us to talk to Him, it is the way we connect and have a relationship with Him. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 ESV tells us:
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
I did pray, but I also just talked - my study Bible says that we cannot spend all of our time on our knees, but it is possible to have a prayerful attitude.
I believe and have experienced total peace when I am talking to God. I pray throughout the day too. There are times when I just open up and ask Him questions, or tell him my worries and fears, and more often than not, I am thanking Him for all He does for me. I do not hear God’s voice audibly. According to my study Bible, God speaks to people in many ways, including through an audible voice, still small voice, and through scripture. However, some sources say that you can’t hear God’s voice audibly, and instead, communication may take place in your mind. That is how I hear God, in my mind and in my heart.
I highly recommend getting out and walking by yourself or with a friend. If you are alone, have a great conversation with God. If you are with a loved one, take time to talk and listen to what their needs are and take them to God. He listens, He is there for usALWAYS.
Karen Ruhl is an author of children’s books and is currently working on a Christian devotional book due to be released soon. She is the Publisher and Editor In Chief of Faith On Every Corner Magazine. Thousands of readers enjoy her articles, stories, and photography each month in over 100 countries. Karen and her husband live in Hudson, NC, in the foothills of The Blue Ridge Mountains.
Love and blessings to you all,
Heavenly Father, we thank you for each day and all the day brings with it.
Father, at times we wonder what we are supposed to do in situations that arise. During those times, we only need to turn to the Bible where you have left instructions for every situation.
Help us Father, to talk to you and to listen for your guidance. Help us to help others, and teach us not to judge.
We pray for the world, Father God, So much is happening and we ask that you protect the innocent.
Please forgive us our sins and transgressions and help us to let others know about you. Help us talk to the lost and tell them how they too can have a relationship with you.
You are the one and only almighty God, who loves us and wants the best for us. We love you with all of our heart, mind, body, and soul, ands strength.
In the might name of Jesus we pray.
Amen
Walking my puppy, the other day, I noticed holes in the ground. It’s a habit of mine to keep aware of the terrain my feet are on to keep from stumbling and possibly injuring myself. I assumed these holes were that of gophers until my daughter pointed out they could be from snakes. Walking upon snakes initially caused me to shudder. But then Jesus’s words gave me a different perspective. “Behold, I have given you authority to tread on snakes and scorpions and over all the power of the enemy. Nothing will harm you.” Luke 10:19 HCS.
Andrea is mom to four great kids and Grammy to four delightful grands. Passionate about Jesus, friends, and people, Andrea loves to share all He has taught her in life. When not writing, Andrea enjoys simple things, such as music, heartwarming movies, reinventing recipes to be healthier, and cycling along one wooded road or other with the Lord.
Please visit her Facebook blog: https:// www.facebook.com/In-The-Way-Everlasting-1770074853062907 Andrea is always ready to hear thoughts from her readers. Or you can email her at: rapture927@aol.com Facebook Blog: In the Way Everlasting
Everything God made He made good, which has to apply to snakes. A little research bears evidence of the beneficial purposes of snakes. For one, they help keep rodents in check, and their venom helps in the treatment of certain diseases. Still, everything good is subject to change in a fallen world run by Lucifer. He is the snake-in-chief. Revelation 12:9 calls him the serpent of old. Hard to believe a creature, given great beauty would stoop to a level of expecting his Creator to worship him. Then again, plenty of people fall into the category of ‘lovers of self’ in a desire to be idolized just like Lucifer. I see too many mouthpieces for the devil, whose only mission is to kill, steal, and destroy. It isn’t by chance we use the word, ‘snake’ when referring to these types of human beings.
We need to be careful when confronted by snakes, whether they appear standing tall or slithering upon the ground. Ephesians 6: 12 specifies that we are not wrestling people, but rather powerful principalities - hosts of wickedness – within the darkness of this age. It sure doesn’t sound like any of us are a match for the likes of these. Many Israelites died in the wilderness from snake bites. God also used a snake to become a staff for Moses that brought forth miracles. Good or evil, “God has prepared everything for His purpose - even the wicked for the day of disaster.” Proverbs 16:4 HCS. I wish I could say I will never be afraid. I won’t focus on the fear, though, because the Snake is not in control of those redeemed by the blood of Jesus. Furthermore, a world corrupted by evil has no power to slip us up in our walk with God. We don’t forget, that God confined Lucifer to crawling on his belly after tempting Adam and Eve into disobedience. Genesis 3:14.
My hope and focus are on a new world coming, a world God promised to restore to the way He created it to be. From the standpoint of victory in what Jesus did that I could never do for myself, every day is a day for me to put on the armor of God. “Though a righteous man falls seven times, he will get up, but the wicked will stumble into ruin.” Proverbs 24:16. HCS. I think it’s better to be rattled by snakes than to spend eternity with them. James 4:8,9 tells sinners to lament, mourn, and weep. As awful as this sounds, it is the awful things in our lives that hold the potential of drawing us to God. He alone is able to save and to destroy. James 4:12. Better to weep and wail now for a little while than to be subjected to the miseries coming that will have no end.
“The Name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous runs to it and is safe and set on high [far above evil].” Proverbs 18:10-13 AMP.
Click on the book cover to purchase The Hobble by Andrea Marino
Mary Jane and I have known each other for years through a writer’s group I belonged to. Mary Jane still belongs to them, Encouragers Christian Writers Group. Mary Jane and Cathy Biggerstaff, another member, were so kind and came to the hospital to check on me when I was staying there to be with Craig.
Mary Jane and I continued to chat about the loss of husbands. We also talked about what we wanted to do for fun and the idea of going on a short trip became a reality.
And so, off we went to the Golden Isles of Georgia - what a beautiful place. The ride was a big long for a short stay and yet we enjoyed every minute. We talked all the way down, during, and up from our trip. It was just what was needed.
A very unique place is on Jekyl Island, it is called Driftwood Beach and it will not disappoint you if you go. Here is the description I found on Google:
Driftwood Beach on Jekyll Island, Georgia, has been shaped by decades of erosion. The beach was once a maritime forest, but over time, the ocean, strong winds, and saltwater stripped away the soil that kept the trees alive. The trees uprooted or died, and some were left partially buried in the sand. The tides along the beach aren’t strong enough to sweep the driftwood out to sea, so the trees and tree trunks remain.
I see shapes in the trees, much like when I look at the clouds. You can see the beautiful Simon Island Lighthouse from Driftwood Beach as you walk along the oceanside and marvel at the trees.
Mary Jane and I climbed the lighthouse, all 129 steps!! The view from on top was magnificent and worth the climb. I hope you enjoyed our trip photos, watch for more in July!
As former owner and creative director of two advertising agencies, Linda has years of experience creating a public impression of a product through the media using television commercials, radio and print advertising, press releases, and marketing campaigns.
Linda has been a caregiver for her son; a volunteer who travelled to Egypt and helped Sudanese refugees; a volunteer for a local food ministry, and a Creative Writing teacher for the Arts and Humanities Council of Tulsa for their Artists in the Schools program.
The Christian Life is supposed to be real. Everyday life in everyday things.
In the Bible, Matthew 25:33-40 tells us how we SHOULD be! Followed by Matthew 25:41-45 that tells us how we sometimes actually ARE! Big difference!
One day, I was feeling more than a bit tired and decided to just get in my car and drive home. I was attending a meeting with a group of people from a Food Ministry and decided to forego the remainder of the meeting and the disposition of food boxes to those families who had come for help. I was a volunteer after all and not being paid for any of my work. So, I justified leaving. Was God pleased with my decision? No. Was I helping others? No. Was I being a Christian? No.
The Food Ministry was only open for three hours and the more volunteers they had, the more people could be helped in that span of time. So, by removing myself from there, I could actually have prevented someone from receiving much-needed food because I was too tired.
Needless to say, I turned my car around, drove back to the Food Ministry and finished out the time. Every person’s face I looked at, could have been someone doing without food for themselves and/or their children if I had not returned.
Much like Jesus was talking about in the above scriptures about seeing someone without food and feeding them. But He used Himself in the description. Would I have even considered leaving if Jesus Himself was standing in the food line? Not at all! Yet He actually was! This is a part of the “realness” of the Christian life! Jesus is in everything and with us everywhere!
Christianity is reality.
Not illusion. We can’t afford to be indifferent. Not to Jesus, not to people needing our help, not to the lost who are dying without knowing Jesus! Jesus needs us to “Get Real”!
Jesus loves each of us! I am so thankful He allows each of us to be Him when others need us and when we need others to help us! We need to cover each other with love. Perhaps it’s time to take a personal assessment. Just as a reminder to all of us about our choices and what’s really at stake.
YOU will stand alone before God.
No one else to blame.
No one else to make excuses.
Either YOU did it or YOU didn’t do it.
Either YOU chose the REAL Christian life, or YOU chose to slide around the edges.
It’s time for YOU (and me) to “GET REAL”.
(Continued from page 42)
By Howard IsomIf we feel that we have fallen too far to be offered forgiveness and a second chance we need to look no further than the cross to remind ourselves of the ground shaking truth that Jesus died so that you and I might be offered a second chance. God offered up His only Son— Jesus Christ—for the forgiveness of our sins. As the Apostle Peter explained, Christ himself carried our sins in his body to the cross, so that we might die to sin and live for righteousness. It is by his wounds that you have been healed. (1 Peter 2:24 GNT). Jesus lived the sinless life we couldn’t live and died the gruesome death we should have received, to offer us a second chance at life with God.
Jesus once said, “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor”(Luke 4:18-19 NIV).
His ministry on this earth was marked by fresh starts and second chances. We see how He redeemed the outcasts, the liars, the convicted, and condemned. We see that He professed the unfaltering power of redemption in their lives. God offers us second chances because He has given us the ultimate second chance through His son. No matter where you are, no matter what you’ve done; God is offering you a second chance. God is saying, “If you return to me, I will return to you. If you will ask me to, I will forgive you. If you will allow my son to take it from you, He will take the stain of your sin and make it white as snow.
Proverbs 28:13 says, People who conceal their sins will not prosper. But if they confess and turn from them, they will receive mercy.” (NLT) The Living Bible translation of this proverb says, A man who refuses to admit his mistakes can never be successful. But if he confesses and forsakes them, he gets another chance. O Glory to God!
What should we do with a second chance? One thing is to live a life of gratitude. David says in the verse above that to receive mercy and a second chance we must confess our sin, we must own it, and then turn from it. He didn’t make the same mistake twice, he learned from the mistakes he had made and turned his back on them, never to make them again. Forgiveness is something special but to receive it, we must mean our repentance. The most important thing to him was his desire to make things right with God. David rejoiced in his forgiveness and didn’t let guilt from his past mistakes hold him back from what God had in store for him. He could rejoice in a second chance and with a heart full of gratitude sing, It is good to give thanks to the Lord, and to sing praises to Your name, O Most High: to declare Your lovingkindness in the morning, and Your faithfulness every night. Psalm 92:1-2 (NKJV) The Living Bible says, It is good to say thank you to the Lord, to sing praises to the God who is above all gods. Every morning tell him, “Thank you for your kindness,” and every evening rejoice in all his faithfulness. My heart is full of gratitude even as I write this morning. I can’t praise Him enough for His mercy.
There are so many who get out of prison who go right back to their old lifestyle. It breaks my heart. There is so much potential, so much that God wants to do in and with their lives. Pete Rose said this, “If somebody is gracious enough to give me a second chance, I won’t need a third.” I like that. That should be our heart’s desire, our resolve, when we get a second chance.
Paul received a second chance, and he would tell us today, that if you got a second chance to serve God, to fulfill your real mission, to fulfill your purpose in life to; Seize it! Don’t waste it! Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 6:1 We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain. (KJV) We work together with God, and we beg you to make good use of God’s gift of undeserved grace. (CEV) As God’s partners, we beg you not to toss aside this marvelous message of God’s great kindness. (TLB) And the (GW) Translation says, Since we are God’s coworkers, we urge you not to let God’s kindness be wasted on you.
Contrary to letting God’s kindness be wasted on us, tossing it aside, and it being in vain, Paul writes in verse 4, But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God…(KJV) In other words Paul is saying that in every way and everything we do, we should show, we should prove, our lives should demonstrate that we are true, genuine servants, ministers of God.
God is in the business of second chances to remind us that he is the same God yesterday, today, and tomorrow. No matter what has happened in the past, you can thank God for a second chance to fulfill his plan for your life. A genuine second chance is God’s declaration that He is not holding someone’s past against them, but still expects to see positive changes in their lives.
Paul did a 180-degree turn in his life, and he never forgot the second chance God gave him. Later in his ministry, Paul said, But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God. (Acts 20:24 KJV)
But life is worth nothing unless I use it for doing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus—the work of telling others the Good News about God’s mighty kindness and love. (TLB) What matters most to me is to finish what God started: the job the Master Jesus gave me of letting everyone I meet know all about this incredibly extravagant generosity of God. (MSG)
Once we have tasted the joy and the sweetness of second chances, God wants us to live our lives in a way that glorifies Him. Like Paul, who was so grateful God was using him, nothing else mattered to him, we should be too.
Howard Isom is an author and speaker. You can learn more about Howard by visiting https://hemakesallthingsnewministry.com/about-howard-isom/ Click on his photo to go to Amazon.com
We have read over 160 books and offered our reviews in issues of Faith On Every Corner. On this journey, we have met many wonderful writers who have experienced the trials and pitfalls of becoming published authors. We first learned of a woman who wrote a beautiful book, only to be taken advantage of by an unscrupulous publisher. She and her husband lost thousands of dollars they could ill afford to lose. We helped her republish her book while she kept all rights to her work. Since then, we have found that there are many writers who shared her terrible experiences.
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