Freedom In Christ vs A Flawed And Fallen World

If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed John 8:36

O Lord, please forgive our many sins as a nation. We come before You in the Name of Jesus, asking for the people of this country understand that repentance involves a complete abandonment of our wrongs, replaced by obedience to You. Revelation 2:5 Consider how far you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first. If you do not repent, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place.

Although the killing of children is an abomination to You, continually children are slaughtered both inside and outside of the womb. There is an outcry and demand for these crimes to stop, yet it does not. Votes are cast, laws are made and supposedly enforced, but where is justice for these precious ones?  Luke 17:2 It were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he cast into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little ones.

People are killing each other and themselves at alarming rates. When will the value of human life, love for one’s fellow man, woman and child earn a right to exist without claim by another to take it? John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. Matthew 10:28 And fear not them which kill the body but are not able to kill the soul; but rather fear Him which is able to destroy both soul and body in Hell.

There is no respect for authority, the police, government, President and especially not of Almighty God.  There is an outright disregard for the law. But, beware, a harsh and just punishment is coming, for which the consequence will be unescapable. Romans 13: 1 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers.  For there is no Power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Romans 13: 8-10 Owe no man any thing, but to love one another; for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill. Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. Love worketh no ill to his neighbor; therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.  

Redeemer, You came to offer THE ONLY WAY out of chaos we see as common today. You, Lord, are The ETERNAL SOLUTION, our Savior forever, our ONLY HOPE and SOURCE of PEACE. 1 Corinthians 14:33 For God is not the author of confusion but of peace, as in all churches of the saints. John 14:6 Jesus saith unto him, I am THE WAY, THE TRUTH and THE LIFE, no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me.

You ALONE establish and dismantle kings and kingdoms. The height accomplished or the depths reached, the time called to lead, is all ordained by You. For such a time as this, our country has Her leader, who like all mankind, is imperfect.  Even so, he is the one You chose.  You have provided many supporters praying with and for him and offering encouragement to his family, friends and staff. Until he has served Your purpose, he will remain where You established him to be. 

We trust, You, Lord, to move and direct according to Your Will.  Our trust is in You, not in any individual or group.  We may or may not like a particular person in a position, but unless they direct us contrary to You disapproval does not justify disobedience or disrespect.  There is only One Perfect Leader, with an everlasting dominion; other than that of who have Jesus Christ, all rulers, every land, man-made laws, are imperfect.

Daniel 2:21-22 And He changeth the times and the seasons. He removeth kings, and setteth up kings; He giveth wisdom unto the wise, and knowledge to them that know understanding;  He revealeth the deep and secret things; He knoweth what is in the darkness, and the light dwelleth with Him.

Please continue drawing our country’s leadership to seek Your Wisdom regarding decisions both small and seemingly insignificant, to those with tremendous impact on the people and this wonderful land You provide for us. James 1:5 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not, and it shall be given him.

We seek Your Favor, although undeserved, and ask that You direct us toward lives of self-sufficiency. To function well as a whole, we must first be motivated to grow as individuals, taking personal responsibility for both our actions and in-action. Our reliance needs only to be found in our Creator.  We depend upon You, as we were made able to care for ourselves. Those unable to do so, let compassion, not compulsion through taxation, be our guide. 

There are those who need help and others with means and willingness to assist. Please allow those who can, a benevolent heart to reach out to others.  Please let those who can help themselves, do so.  The future generations need to see that accomplishment requires effort.  Lack of motivation can be overcome, but not by blaming it on anyone or circumstance.  Pulling up and out of a situation, although it can be a struggle, is not impossible.  Help is a tool, not a crutch, not a permanent solution. James 4:8 Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.

Please, Father, let our governing body acknowledge that You are our Fortress. We have a Comforter, bringing calm during wild and wicked days. Wisdom, frothing atop a sea of senselessness. You Are the Great I AM, Who knew before time, these days would come to pass, and have already provided a resolve.  Although we do not know it, You do. Jeramiah 29:11 For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith The Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. Isaiah 55:9 For as the Heavens are higher than the earth, so are My Ways higher than your ways, and My Thoughts than your thoughts.

Thank You for the hope through faith that we share with a broken and worried word. We fear only You, Great King, for You are worthy, You Alone have the Power to restore this country, heal our land and save Her people.

 1 Thessalonians 4: 13-18 But I would not have you ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as other which have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with Him.  For this we say unto you by the Word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. For the Lord Himself shall descend from Heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God, and the dead in Christ shall rise first; Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air and so shall we ever be with the Lord.  Wherefore comfort one another with these words.

Thank You for the liberties and freedoms You provided through the brave men and women in uniform. Also, please make Yourself known to caregivers and those assisting with physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being. Please restore appreciation for those who have chosen careers in serving others, strengthening, refilling and refreshing them. Psalm 23 The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures; He leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul. He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His Name’s Sake. Yeah though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for Thou Art with me; Thy Rod and Thy Staff they comfort me; Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies; Thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the House of the Lord for ever.

 Everlasting God, please be with those who are unable to go into work, either through business closure, temporary shut-down, lay-off, illness, childcare arrangements or any other situation, causing stress on families and individuals, financially or in any way. So many are scared and burdened.  Daily, decisions are made about paying rent or feeding a family. Lord Jesus, a time has come where there is hesitation about assembling to praise You. Fear holds too many hostages in its relentless grip. No virus or invisible enemy holds power over our Invisible God!  Isaiah 54:17 No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is of Me, saith The Lord.

Thank You, too, for the police and their families.  Please forgive the vast disrespect they receive when putting their lives at risk. Please direct them to act and react as they should, applying appropriate behavior as each situation dictates, regardless of a culprit’s ethnicity.  Please raise the spirit and morale of those who earnestly seek to protect the public, exposing and purging others whose behavior leads to assumption that all law enforcement is corrupt and unnecessary. Proverbs 28:1 The wicked flee when no man pursueth; but the righteous are bold as a lion. Psalms 82:3-4 Defend the poor and fatherless; do justice to the afflicted and needy.

Scripture says that we were made in Your Image.  Every human has a value, no more, no less than any other, period. Philippians 2:3-4 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Please reveal the hatred in the hearts of mankind. Rather than disgust and raging against the enemy, we strike out against one another. Please shine Your light on his plan to tear the people apart by turning us on each other, rather than uniting us.  The enemy cannot and will not bring peace, only You, God, can usher in reconciliation.  Hatred brings about division. Division brings forth death. Ecclesiastes 4:11-12 Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm; but how can one keep warm alone? And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken. Mark 3:25 And if a house is divided against itself, that house cannot stand.

Holy and Righteous King, once more regarding children, the framework of our future, please direct how to continue educating them.  While some have people to guide and help with instruction and support, far too many are left struggling.  Structure and assistance needs to be available for every child so they can learn and understand.  For those who are not self-starters, the children who have no access or direction to advance or capture lessons that may confound them, there must be solutions.   Please, Lord, allow this to be a time when wasteful instruction is vacated. Please allow a return of basic subjects rather than indoctrination of various agendas, and history, not fiction.

Teachers and parents are having to learn new concepts, procedures and guidelines, too, so it is concerning that there will be a lower interest in pursuing careers as educators. Proverbs 22:6 Train up a child in the way he should go; and when he is old, he will not depart from it.

History does not need to be re-written, lest it be repeated. Lord, at this current pace of declining social morality, our legacy seems Godless, ergo, without hope. Unless we turn to You and You have mercy on us once again can we say, “Only God could have brought us back from the brink of destruction.” Romans 2:5 But because of your stubbornness and your unrepentant heart, you are storing up wrath against yourself for the Day of God’s wrath, when righteous judgment will be revealed.

For those who believe and trust in Jesus Christ as the One and Only Way to You, Father God, there is a certainty of a day that all will answer, independent of anyone else. Without anyone to blame or claim responsibility, as we stand before our Maker, and an eternal verdict is given. Romans 14:12 So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.

In the Name of Jesus, Philippians 2: 9-11 Wherefore, God also highly exalted Him, and given Him a Name which is above every name. That at the Name of Jesus, every knee should bow, of things in Heaven, and things in earth and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father

Amen

Light Extinguishes Darkness

Genesis 1: 3-5 And God said, Let there be light: and there was light.
And God saw the light, that it was good: and God divided the light from the darkness. And God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And the evening and the morning were the first day.

Psalm 119:105 NUN. Thy Word is a Lamp unto my feet, and a Light unto my path.

Matthew 5:16 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in Heaven.

John 1:55 And the Light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.

Last Thanksgiving we were expecting a house full of company, so all of our bedrooms were going to be occupied. One of our rooms doesn’t have a bed, but it does have a large “picture” window (from the 1950’s Era), welcoming a substantial amount of sunlight.

Since my oldest was assigned to that area, I knew, although she enjoyed the sun, being a Floridian for several years now, she would not be too impressed early in the morning with blinding brightness shortly after sunrise.

Before everyone came, I found some “blackout” curtains at the local store, so I purchased a few panels, as the window is quite large, and my husband put them up for me.

Tonight as I was thinking about this, I considered how well my daughter rested in that dark room. It made me think about how Christians in their sin, are “comfortable” in the darkness and resist exposure to light, revealing sin for what it is, SIN!

God has no intention of allowing us to rest in the darkness of our trespasses. He has purchased us with His Blood, and is maturing, growing, sanctifying, perfecting us for the Time He calls us Home.

The Health Benefits of Natural Light (and 7 Ways to Get More of It)
Ways to get more sunlight
Alternative light hacks

Health benefits of natural light
1. Boosts vitamin D
2. Wards off seasonal depression

Genesis 1: 3-5 And God said, Let there be light: and there was light.
And God saw the light, that it was good: and God divided the light from the darkness. And God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And the evening and the morning were the first day.
Psalm 119:105 NUN. Thy Word is a Lamp unto my feet, and a Light unto my path.
Matthew 5:16 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in Heaven.
John 1:55 And the Light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.

Last Thanksgiving we were expecting a house full of company, so all of our bedrooms were going to be occupied. One of our rooms doesn’t have a bed, but it does have a large “picture” window (from the 1950’s Era), welcoming a substantial amount of sunlight .

Since my oldest was assigned to that area, I knew, although she enjoyed the sun, being a Floridian for several years now, she would not be too impressed early in the morning with blinding brightness shortly after sunrise.

Before everyone came, I found some “blackout” curtains at the local store, so I purchased a few panels, as the window is quite large, and my husband put them up for me.

Tonight as I was thinking about this, I considered how well my daughter rested in that dark room. It made me think about how Christians in their sin, are “comfortable” in the darkness and resist exposure to light, revealing sin for what it is, SIN!

God has no intention of allowing us to rest in the darkness of our trespasses. He has purchased us with His Blood, and is maturing, growing, sanctifying, perfecting us for the Time He calls us Home.

The Health Benefits of Natural Light (and 7 Ways to Get More of It)
Ways to get more sunlight
Alternative light hacks

A Few Health benefits of natural light

1. Boosts vitamin D

2. Wards off seasonal depression

3. Improves sleep

4:Reduces health risks of fluorescent lighting

Now the Word of God has verse upon verse on the benefits of God’s Light. I encourage you to read through Scripture and study the many ways .

Father God

Thank You for this glorious day

Thank You for sunlight

Thank You for the Light of the World

Please give us boldness to be Your ambassadors and light in this dark world

In the Name of Jesus

Amen

Christianity Does NOT Exempt Us From Trials

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.

 Isaiah 43.2

This is a very comforting passage, I believe, especially in today’s world, considering the current national and global situations. 
As Americans, our news is a constant loop of endless information which must be digested and researched as a vast majority of media outlets seemingly opt for less than credible content or taken out of proper context. 
A station may start out discussing the Presidential election, rioting, protesting, destruction of historical monuments, the disgrace of  burning the American flag and Covid debates regarding restarting schools, facemask requirements and appropriate medical treatment.
As Christians, we are given wisdom and discernment for every aspect of our lives. First and foremost, fellowship with the Lord through prayer and reading of His Word is crucial. Awareness and avoidance of false teaching is critical, as we are personally responsible for knowing the Truth
Each day we are given, let’s give glory to God for the PERFECT peace we have in Him.  Let our lives be a testimony to those around us of trust, hope and life in a corrupt and dying world.  As we conclude, please take notice, the Word of God does not promise escape from trials and tribulation; instead, “When”.  

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.

 Isaiah 43.2This is a very comforting passage, I believe, especially in today’s world, considering the current national and global situations. 
As Americans, our news is a constant loop of endless information which must be digested and researched as a vast majority of media outlets seemingly opt for less than credible content or taken out of proper context. 
A station may start out discussing the Presidential election, rioting, protesting, destruction of historical monuments, the disgrace of  burning the American flag and Covid debates regarding restarting schools, facemask requirements and appropriate medical treatment.
As Christians, we are given wisdom and discernment for every aspect of our lives. First and foremost, fellowship with the Lord through prayer and reading of His Word is crucial. Awareness and avoidance of false teaching is critical, as we are personally responsible for knowing the Truth
Each day we are given, let’s give glory to God for the PERFECT peace we have in Him.  Let our lives be a testimony to those around us of trust, hope and life in a corrupt and dying world.  As we conclude, please take notice, the Word of God does not promise escape from trials and tribulation; instead, “When”.  

Gracious Heavenly FatherThank You for this and every day You give usWe ask for the peace only given by the Comforter, the Holy SpiritA peace the world does not and cannot fathomThank You for letting us know that in all that is going on around usYou have absolute controlNothing or no one can rob of us of our eternity with YouThis world has nothing of value for usWe long to be with You, LordBut we also know that You are not yet ready to call us HomeWhen You are ready, Your Children will know!  You will call, Father, and we will comeLord, please help our faith, strengthen us. You have given us what we need to persevere.In the Name of JesusAmen
credits: God the Father, Jesus, Holy Spirit, Scripturekjbible online, google

24/7 Access to the Lord, Don’t Waste This Gift!

God’s Will = Our Plans ~Following the Lord’s Map For Our Lives~

Proverbs 16:9
A man’s heart deviseth his way; but the Lord directeth his steps.

James 4:13 -15
Go to now, ye that say, To day or to morrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain: Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that.

Please keep in prayer, those in this group, leaders of home, church and country, situations, both local and global. Also for the protection of children (of all ages), in schools and universities, parents and staff.

Clearly the churches need prayer as well, for times such as these, when anyone can walk in from the street, into places of worship and take lives.

In our hearts we know the TRUTH in Proverbs 19:21, whatever befalls children of God, There are many plans in a man’s heart, Nevertheless the LORD’s counsel—that will stand.

Proverbs 16:3 Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established.

As we start out 2020, how many resolutions do you think have been made and what percentage of those have already been broken?

We have in our minds and hearts what we want or even need to do differently or better. We may have trips planned, more “date nights” or hosts of other well-meaning intentions.

Maybe we signed up for a gym membership over the holidays, or vowed to eat healthier this year, whatever it may be, let’s keep these Scriptures in mind.

Too often before, when I found myself already not keeping with what I had determined to change, I usually allowed for a few scenarios: Just go ahead and wait until another milestone, like my birthday, THEN get serious about my goals (allowing myself several months of staying with my old routine) or sometimes just giving up on whatever it was altogether! I “blew it”, right?

Maybe once or twice I thought I would just start the next day or even from that point, forgiving myself, letting go and moving on from there. That didn’t last either. I allowed discouragement and disgust to set in like a bad stain until I couldn’t seem to get rid of that ugly lie of defeat!

God does not set us up for failure. What He leads us to do, He prepares us for and gives us what we need for whatever He calls as our purpose. When the Lord is the Source of our plans, we may still struggle, trying to go about it our own way, but if we obey His Will, It is going to be accomplished.

But what about those who “succeed” and have never trusted in the Lord or even deny and mock Him? The world has its own way of making things look or seem a certain way, but we know that money, popularity, large houses, none of that is actual “success”. Wouldn’t you say that a truly accomplished life is one lived in obedience to The Father, one glorious day, hearing Him tell us “Well done”, as we have kept our hearts and minds focused on Jesus Christ and doing the Will of our Creator, rather than seeking approval of man

Almighty God
Please forgive us for sins we have committed against You, others and ourselves
Thank You for this day and each one You give us
Thank You for our many blessings
Our rights and freedoms
Thank You for family and friends
Thank You for Your Word
For Jesus Who came and lived among us, suffered a criminal’s death, resurrected and sits at Your Right Hand
Until Your own are collected and live with You for eternity in the amazing life of glory
Lord, according to Your Will, please heal the sick and give guidance and wisdom to those in the governments You have established
Please be with our military and their families
We pray for the lost, of the souls who do not know You
Thank You for loving us, Lord
In the Name of Jesus
AMEN

Earthly Trinkets OR Heavenly Treasure

Matthew 6: 19-21
Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

This verse came to me not too long ago in my personal Bible study time. Ouch!
It wasn’t as if the Holy Spirit had not been leading and convicting me for quite some time about examining how, where and why I was investing my resources of time, money, effort and abilities.

I’ve been in a few Bible studies (and I hesitate to call them that, because mostly the group read through a book or watched a presentation on video by the author, where we got his or her perspective on God’s Word, and often times “homework”, reinforcing those ideas).

I digress! Believe it or not, I was so soft spoken in those groups, when comments were made or observations, the voices of others overpowered or interrupted mine, and by the time it was quiet, we had moved on to the next topic. To tell the truth, this did (and still does) annoy me at times. I’m not sure if it us pride, that I want my input, or some kind of “syndrome” from being the discarded opinion as the baby of six. I know in my heart that the Lord would open a door for me to be heard if it was meant to be said though.

He is so gracious in the way He teaches that it is just the way I far too often, neglect to yield to the Holy Spirit. That Still, Small Voice has so much to teach. John 14:26 But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My Name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.

Unlike me wanting to “enlighten” others with my profound thoughts (yeah, okay), the Holy Ghost ACTUALLY has something worthwhile to communicate. I confess, often times I may hear, but I fail to listen, and if I don’t listen, how can I obey? God has been calling me to stop some things I do, watching too much tv or using the computer too much and start doing those things I should (praying and studying Scriptures more).
Romans 7:15 For that which I do I all
ow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I.

Rather than owning up as Paul, in sincere frustration of his battle between spirit and flesh, I have found myself in excusing my humanity as a cause that I am incapable of obedience, which is completely false.

We must acknowledge the Truth of Scripture, and not pull out certain verses (so often even out of context), to justify behavior. Then others are neglected. This is a dangerous practice! Claiming the reality of Romans 7:15, I need to look back to Romans 6:1-2 What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. Clearly grace is not a license to disobey.

So what is God saying? I know to start, I must listen, then seek direction and follow. Willingness is good, I’ve had that off and on since trusting in the Lord, but what actually demonstrates my faith in Him requires action. Not works-based salvation, but being a “doer” of the Word.

Heavenly Father
Thank You for this and every day You’ve given us
Please forgive our sins against You, others and ourselves
We give You praise for all You do for us
Your care and great provision for our every need
We give You glory for our health and ask healing according to Your Will
For those who are ill, physically, mentally, emotionally or spiritually
Father God, please be with the leaders of homes across this land, leaders of our churches and of our governent
Thank You for our freedoms and please do not let us take them for granted
Lord, please help us accept Your Will for our lives
Let us find joy in obeying You and discontentment when we go our own way, not minding the Shepherd’s Voice
You call us from straying away to the safety and protection
Please be with those who are traveling
We know that You have already worked out the solution to this disease that seems to be rapidly spreading. Only You know how it will be contained and eradicated.
Please be with the patients, doctors, families and friends infected.
Father, we know that You care about those tiny children who are every day, robbed of the opportunity to be born.
As a nation we need to repent, as Christians we must continue to pray. Teach us, please, what we can doW
We are helpless in all things without You.
Thank You for Your Word, for Your Son, Jesus, for the Holy Spirit
And for being our Awesome God
In the Name of Jesus
Amen

How Is Your Spiritual Vision? Is It Time to Get Your Eyes Examined? ~Blurry to AMAZING Focus With Christ~

1 Corinthians 13:12 “For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then Face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.”

Proverbs 29:18 Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.

2 Kings 6:17 And Elisha prayed, and said, LORD, I pray thee, open his eyes, that he may see. And the LORD opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw: and, behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha.

Mom always liked numbers. If she had still been here, she would have enjoyed Courtney’s birthday in 2012 because it was (10/11/12).
She found enjoyment in the little things like that. (Not numerology and strangeness), just interesting dates, times and so forth.

This is why when I noticed today’s date as 20/20 (Jonathan’s birthday), it seemed fitting to write about vision. Although these Passages are not lengthy, there is so much packed into each one! It never fails to amaze me how our Lord says so much in such few words!

Please take a little while to consider these verses, and how God has opened your eyes to what you need to see, thanking Him for your vision, both physical and spiritual.

ALMIGHTY GOD
Thank You for this day
Please forgive our sins against You, others and ourselves
We ask for Your Vision, Jesus
That we will see things as You do
Our problems will seem less significant, because we know that You will be there with us to face whatever comes our way
Like Elisha, we will be able to see Your Mighty Protection surrounding us
We will find happiness and joy in Your Will and plan for our life
And we wait for the day when we can see You clearly,
Face to face
In the Name of Jesus
Amen

Multiplying In A Divided World ~Children Are Not Random Acts of the Creator~ No One Is An “Accident”~

Jeramiah 1: 5 Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations.
Psalm 139:14 I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are Thy Works; and that my soul knoweth right well.

With all of the evil and wickedness in the world today, it is so hard to think about the things future generations are going to face. The challenges are mounting constantly against those with the least hint of a moral compass.
Movies, music and the behavior of those around us that at one time would have shaken our conscious, seems to be issues we have learned to live with, because the enemy constantly works at wearing us down to consider what we know to be wrong as “normal”. He is shaping society to accept those things, once hidden, desensitize, even some believers to back down from a stand against sin, just to avoid conflict.

When we turn on the tv and see “pastors” misusing the Word of God, manipulating Scripture for material gain, we should be offended, not just shake our heads and think to ourselves, “Well, there’s another one”. Instead, we should fearlessly call out apostasy and heresy, not hatefully, but for the love of those who are misrepresenting God’s Word and for the sake of those accepting a lie as Truth.

One last thing, then I’ll close. Take a look at the headlines today or Youtube, whatever your source of news (and if you don’t watch it, I do not blame you one bit!).It is so disturbing that those who are entrusted to care for children are the very ones bring harm. Both unborn and born are subjected to cruelty, even to death at times at the hands of their own parents or guardians? Doctors who vow to protect and preserve life, tear children from the womb where God placed them. This is all madness and wretched!

So what are Christians to do, cease from bringing children into this corrupt world, allowing only those who aren’t aborted, the young ones who are not taught of Christ and His Love to raise up to control this and every nation? Clearly the Father continues to bless us with beautiful babies, born both to Christians and non-believers, and He does nothing without reason.

We have no idea what God has planned for the future. Reading Revelation, we do know that the closer to His coming, the more harrowing it will be for those of us who believe in Him, but we also know that we can trust Him, and nothing will be out of His Control.
Let’s enjoy our blessings and pray for them. We know the Lord created them for a purpose, for such a time as this.
I’d like to welcome our new beautiful granddaughter, born just last week. She, and our other two, mean years of prayer for their upbringing.
I can honestly say, with the Lord, I have peace in my heart as they grow, because our God makes calm out of chaos, and beauty from ashes.

Heavenly Father
Thank You for this day
Please forgive our sins against You, others and ourselves
Thank You for these precious children
Please protect those who are already born
And for the unborn
We are in awe, how You create every little bit of who we are
Knowing us, You love Your children
You protect and provide for us
You don’t give us hope, You ARE our hope
You are our life
Our song!
Let us lift our voices to You in Praise
For the many blessings You give us
For the lessons we learn
For Your Word
For Your life, death and resurrection
Please give us new love for You each day
Lord, please be with these children as they venture out into the world
Let them know Your Presence
Let them acknowledge and trust in You
Please let them know them as their God
And that You will recognize them as Your people
For each child and every adult who believes in the Saving Power of Jesus’ Name
To hear one day from You, Well done, My good and faithful servant. Enter into My Rest.”
In the Powerful Name of Jesus
Amen

The Lord Gives Us Boldness.. Even In Troubled Times

Psalm 31:24 Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the LORD.

A few years ago, one of my sisters was diagnosed with cancer. Although I know she was concerned, there was a peace within her that came from the Lord. Rita did not allow anything to discourage her from using the illness as an opportunity to testify to her faith in Christ.

She could have easily used her sickness to wallow in self-pity. Certainly her family, friends and others would have understood fear of the unknown or complaints from the pain she endured

Instead, Rita, with her beautiful blue eyes and warm smile, spent her time during treatments, hospitalizations and visits at home, to proclaim her unwavering belief in the faithfulness of Christ, and His ability to restore her health.
She boldly took the gifts of time and strength she was given, to witness and proclaim the Gospel to anyone she encountered.

My sister was not a shy person, to say the least. First, she was a precious, godly woman, a brilliant RN, University of Alabama grad, and a talented pianist (It thrilled me whenever she let me duo “Chopsticks” with her!). She was a wife and wonderful mom to four boys, plus so much more. She loved Jesus, her family and Alabama football. Rita was very vocal about any of her passions! “College football season” has not been the same without her booming “Roll Tide!”.

With that said, being outspoken about politics or football is one thing, but to have the courage and boldness to speak up for the Truth and proclaim the Word of God, praising and glorifying the Lord is entirely different. It takes a special person to claim the months, days and hours remaining as chances to tell others about the love of Christ and the confidence that He would bring complete healing. Some may say that in the end, she was wrong, but if they listened to what she told them about Jesus, she knew one way or another, she would be whole. What seems to the world as defeat, is instead victory in Christ Jesus.

The Father she trusted and hoped in did not fail her. On June 28, 2009, Rita was taken from this world of suffering to her Home in Glory, where she is well in the Presence of her King.

Below is a part of an e mail Rita sent to me about 8 months before she passed. Rather than look at her life as one lost so young, The Lord has shown me, indeed, Rita’s was one invested to the end, in bringing glory to Him, courageously, She opted to let the Light of Christ shine through her. For Rita, truly to live was Christ and to die, gain.

grbhwc@aol.com
To:
carpediemhwy@yahoo.com

Oct 14, 2008 at 11:25 AM

Hey, Beth,
Sorry it took so long to get back to you. I had a Pet scan last Monday and the results were all negative!!! We are thanking the Lord for completing my recovery as we (and others) prayed!!! I will be observed now occasionally having more Pet scans

Father God
Please forgive us our sins against You, others and ourselves
Thank You for this and every day we are given
Please let us not be concerned with who or what is around us
But stand firm in proclaiming Your Word
Why are we fearful, Lord?
In You, we have nothing or no one to fear
Please give us the boldness to testify to Your greatness
And share Your Gospel
The world does not know Truth
The only Truth is Your Word
Please allow us to accept encouragement to keep Scripture hidden in our hearts
So we can at any place or time, give an answer for our belief in You
And that we can know and share You with others
Let our thoughts, words and actions, reflect our trust, hope and confidence in Who You Are
You Are The Almighty God
Let us be willing, in health or in sickness, to testify about Your faithfulness
Please let us love one another and pray for each other
We thank You for the comfort in knowing that those who put their trust in Christ alone
From this world, will fall at the feet of Precious Jesus, our Savior
In the Name of Jesus
We ask that You give us more love for You and others every day
And that we never waste or forfeit an opportunity to be all You created us to be
In Jesus’ Name,
Amen
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FqhnAUWTGok If You Want Me To
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DXDGE_lRI0E 10,000 Reasons

credits: God the Father, Jesus, Holy Spirit, Scripture
Rita K W M 9/4/56 (a life of living for, trusting in, testifying about Jesus Christ) 6/28/09
google, youtube, blueletterbible

Trusting God When Faith Tries To Escape In The Mist of Circumstances

James 4:14 Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. It has been a while, but if I have talked to you recently, you understand the reasons it has been a bit since the last e mail. On behalf of my family, we are deeply touched and humbled by those who have helped in so many ways, prayed and continue lifting us up as we learn and grow through these days. We give God glory for whatever He is working out through this situation. James 1:2-3 My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; 3Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.here with you all today. Genesis 50:20 But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. On Friday, July 17, J and I were just starting our weekend groove. C headed out for work around 5:20 p.m. and J and I were going to more than likely have a nice little dinner at one of our favorite mom and pop establishments. The 21st we had tickets to a play we were going to attend with a friend, so we decided just to keep it simple until then. Not long after leaving, our son called and said that his car, the one we just spent a small fortune on not long ago, quit on his way to work. Jonathan told me just to stay here at home and he would be back in just a little while and we would grab something to eat. I was not all that pleased with the situation, especially since we had just put money into that car, but J as always, just rolled with the punches and said it would “work out” fine. Typically I sigh, probably because he is right, it does “work”. While sitting on the couch waiting, I shot out a few prayer requests, not for the guys but that the REPAIRS would not be costly. Eventually they told me that it looked like a radiator hose, so there, prayer answered, a relatively easy fix. They were waiting on the tow truck, I was told, and then we would take our evening off “pause”. As I waited for Jonathan to come through the door any minute, I saw that C was calling me. I thought maybe he was just telling me dad was on his way, or that he was joining us, I just was not connecting those dots. It was a little odd, but nothing prepared me for what I heard next. C proceeded to tell me not to panic, but to meet them at the hospital. My first thought was that J got overheated and had some kind of asthma issue. I asked C if it was J’s breathing. He told me “they” thought his leg may be broken, just meet at the hospital. The only other thing I was told is that they were hit. I knew they were looking under the hood so I asked if it was their body and he said no, it was the car. J had gone over with C what to tell me so I would panic the least. I scrambled about the house, trying to lock up and leave on enough lights that C and I could get J back in with a cast. It was cloudy and about 6:30 p.m. by then, so a little duskiness was falling as I drove, trying my best not to come unglued, fearing it was far worse than I was being led to believe. When I got to the ER, the guys were not there yet, so I didn’t know what to anticipate. The lady at the desk finally said they were coming in and I saw C walking slowly since he had strained his shoulder and was clearly stiff and shaken, then I saw my husband of 28 years up on the gurney, in pain, with blood on the side of his head, his pillow, neck in a brace and left leg on a board. At the time, my son was feeling responsible since Jonathan was there as a result of helping him. J, the girls and I assured C, in no way was what happened his fault. Then was not the time to cry, look worried or fearful. I knew needed help and support. Quickly, I called on someone from our church who also arrived before the guys and stayed probably a least 5 hours, praying and supporting C. Although the pastor was working a soup kitchen that night and had company from out of town, he came later, stayed a long while and ended up following C and I home in his car to make sure we made it back safely between 1 and 2 a.m. The guys were sitting in J’s new Nissan (we just made the 3rd payment that Monday), waiting on the tow truck for C’s car, when a 27 year-old woman plowed into both of our vehicles, totaling them. The accident sprained C’s shoulder and (doctors believe), pushed J’s knee up, crushing the ball of his hip, shattering the surrounding area and sent glass flying like shrapnel, leaving Jonathan with 4 stitches, 4 staples and a necessary total hip replacement. MIRACLES (We know, many we are unaware): >The Hand of God working this situation out before it even happened >The Word of God, giving peace >The Great Comforter >Faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior >J could have just dropped off the AAA card and C would have been alone >All three of us could have been together, putting one of us in the back seat (very probably critically injuring that person, at best) >The guys were both just standing outside the car with their heads under the hood shortly before the driver came at them at 70 mph >Jonathan and I were on the phone minutes before impact (God spared me hearing that all unfold and chaos) >C wasn’t injured more seriously or killed >Medical staff, etc, were amazed that J was not more severely injured or killed >The other driver and passengers (including a man and two children in car seats) were not seriously hurt or killed >Charles’ composure in the situation, from helping Jonathan control bleeding, calling 911, staying calm and the way he communicated with everyone (including answering my questions). Jonathan has told everyone how proud he is of Charles for handling everything so maturely. >For a husband who, through the excruciating pain of a broken hip and other injuries, was concerned about Charles and also inquired about the safety of the other passengers. He also demonstrated concern for me, in that he offered specific directions as how to tell me so I would be able to drive to the hospital. What compassion and kindness. >For my girls who have supported us throughout this situation >Family who stepped in to pray and help when and where needed >For the many friends rallying around, praying for and loving on us, helping in so many ways This devotional has been tossing about in my mind since the accident, waiting until I could come up with what I have learned so far from this entire experience. Thankfulness and a keen awareness of God’s absolutely POWERFUL and PERFECT WILL for each of us. He doesn’t call us to understand, only to trust Him. Does a dog KNOW it is a dog? A tree can’t be a river. God may call some to do one thing for a lifetime and others to change around in careers or location. We never know where the Lord will take us, why nor how He will get us there. A life offered back to the Creator Who so willingly gave His own, is privileged (not easy by any means), and blessed beyond anything this world has to offer. Luke 22: 41 And He was withdrawn from them about a stone’s cast, and kneeled down, and prayed, 42 Saying, Father, if Thou be willing, remove this cup from Me: nevertheless not My will, but Thine, be done. 43 And there appeared an angel unto Him from Heaven, strengthening Him. 44 And being in an agony He prayed more earnestly: and His sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground. PLEASE NEVER PART COMPANY WITHOUT TELLING THOSE YOU CARE ABOUT THAT YOU LOVE THEM! DON’T ALLOW ANYTHING SAID OR DONE KEEP YOU FROM SAYING “I love you”! After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in Heaven, Hallowed be Thy Name. Thy Kingdom come, Thy Will be done in earth, as it is in Heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For Thine is the Kingdom, and the Power, and the Glory, for ever. Amen. In Christ Alone https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yT0393FXu_I How Great Thou Art https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cc0QVWzCv9k ‘Tis So Sweet To Trust In Jesus https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0LJwSkEhruw Praise You In This Storm https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L5bLvVjJ4MA Blessed Be Your Name https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PnWKehsOXu8 10,000 Reasons https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DXDGE_lRI0E