Author: musingsalonglifesjourney

I've been following Jesus Christ for over 40 years. Married for 44 years, mother to 4 grown children - all married, 9 grandchildren. I am a writer, editor, proofreader; do administration for a small publishing company. My gifts from God: music, artistic, giving, caring and love reading, writing, singing, visiting people, sending encouragement cards, gardening, and volunteering. We travel a lot visiting family and I have taken mission trips to Ukraine, Haiti, Tanzania, recently Uganda, and have visited Israel. My three sons have all been active-duty military. We also have a special-needs grandson. I'm in hot pursuit of more of the Lord and the holy fire of God's love!

Did you know?

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Did you know… came to mind this morning.  Did you know that there’s a lot going on in the spiritual realm? Like a game of chess, the devil is on the move, but so is God!

Jesus conquered sin and death on the cross. Are you living in light of the power and authority He bought for you and for me?

The following Scripture passage occurs when the disciples return, jubilant with triumph, after being sent out with a small measure of the power and authority Jesus shared with them.

Luke 10:18 And He said to them, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. 19 Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you.

They were amazed, but what did Jesus direct them to? Look at the next sentence Jesus spoke:

Luke10:20 Nevertheless, do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rather rejoice because your names are written in heaven.”

Did you know that at this time we are living in, the veil between Earth and Heaven is quite thin?  That things can change quickly if we ask Jesus to bring Heaven down? Jesus said:

John 16:23 … Most assuredly, I say to you, whatever you ask the Father in My name He will give you. 24 Until now you have asked nothing in My name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full.

Make sure you stand in faith when you ask, rejoicing that God heard you and is answering that prayer. Even if it takes half a lifetime to come to pass, believe that it will be accomplished in His perfect timing. Let’s look into 1 John chapter 5.

1 John 5:4 Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. 15 And if we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him.

1 John 5:3 For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith.

Are you born anew through Jesus? He was born of God, and now we are also.

5 Who is he who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?

If you believe He hears us, that you are born again, and that Jesus is the Son of God, you are made to overcome! Are you abounding in faith? Are you trusting Him? Are you triumphant over evil? Let’s look at the wisdom from Psalm 4. No matter what is going on around you, verses 4&5 are an appropriate reaction to anger:

Psalm 4:4 Be angry, and do not sin.
Meditate within your heart on your bed, and be still. Selah. 5. Offer the sacrifices of righteousness, and put your trust in the Lord.


Do you have a gladness in your heart? If not, ask the Lord to put it there as He did for David.
7. You have put gladness in my heart,
More than in the season that their grain and wine increased.

Are you asking God some version of the next verse? Notice the entreaty on the back end of the verse. 6. There are many who say,
“Who will show us any good?”
Lord, lift up the light of Your countenance upon us.

In the midst of these times, do you lie down in peace and sleep? If not, trust the Lord:
8. I will both lie down in peace and sleep;
for You alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.

Are you trusting God to act on our behalf?  Do not give up just before your prayers are answered, or your answer may never come. Never doubt our prayer- hearing, prayer-answering LORD!

I leave you with a link to Donna Rigney’s video I just watched. God’s word is true, and great things are ahead for us! Watch to the end if you want to soak up the Father’s glory she releases!

Communism won’t take over our nation! God is coming to rescue us! Donna Rigney https://youtu.be/DUflPbp8KZg?si=NtmObMovxdCd7CZC

Note: Could we be in this mess because only 33% of professing Christians exercise their right to vote? I do not trust in man, so I’m not telling you who to vote for. I urge you to find out where the candidates stand on issues pertaining to life and sane living. Make sure you talk with the Lord [pray!] and then vote.

* Originally shared on Facebook

Psalm 3 & A Hymn

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Welcome to another Musing, this time on God’s faithfulness and awesomeness. The Psalm was my reading for the day. The first stanza of this hymn is one that lodged in my thoughts today.

My view from our vehicle on the way home a couple of weeks ago. Yes, I enhanced it to capture God’s amazing glory in the atmosphere.

Psalm 3 is titled:

The LORD Helps His Troubled People

A Psalm of David when he fled from Absalom his son.

3 LORD, how they have increased that trouble me. Many are they who rise up against me.   2. Many are they who say of me, “There is no help for him in God.” Selah

Selah… think about this. Are you troubled by the people around you? Maybe by the bad news and dire predictions swirrling around? Does anyone say that God can’t help you/us? Imagine being King David. Your son has arisen to usurp your throne. He’s gathered his cronies to be coronated before Dad can stop him. How does David handle this?

3. But You, O LORD,  are a shield for me. My glory and the One who lifts up my head.         4. I cried to the LORD with my voice, and He heard me from His holy hill. Selah

Selah… think about this. Are you assured that God hears you? That He can bring glory out of even this trial? David has a track record with the LORD, his God, who has been a shield of protection. He knows God hears his cry for help.

5. I lay down and slept, I awoke for the LORD sustained me.                                                       6. I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people who have set themselves against me all around.

Do you have ten thousand people,  or more, set against you? Are you surrounded? Can you sleep? Can you trust the LORD to sustain you as you sleep, then wake you in the morning?

7. Arise, O LORD; save me, Oh my God! For You have struck all my enemies on the cheek bone; You have broken the teeth of the  ungodly.                                                                 8. Salvation belongs to the LORD. Your blessing is upon Your people. Selah

Selah.  Do you trust the LORD  to be your avenger?  Do you believe that His blessing is upon you? Upon those things/people you care about?

Now, let us turn to the Hymn that rested in my thoughts earlier today. I could only remember the first stanza, so I looked it up on YouTube.

Luke Powell  introduced this hymn by telling that the queen of England requested it for her 60th anniversary of her coronation. For the author, Walter C. Smith, this was the only hymn he wrote that became popular. Immortal, invisible… fhas a focus on the Light of God, as evidenced in the above photo. I’ll share the link to Luke’s video at the end.

Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise

1. Immortal, invisible, God only wise.              in light inaccessible hid from our eyes,      most blessed, most glorious,                            the Ancient of Days,                                 almighty,  victorious,                                         thy great name we praise.

2. Unresting, unhasting, and silent as light,    no wanting, nor wasting, thou rulest in might; thy justice like mountains high soaring above thy clouds, which are fountains.                       of goodness and love.

3.  To all life thou givest, to both great and small;                                                                      in all life thou livest, the true life of all;        we blossom and flourish as leaves on the tree, and wither and perish,                                     but naught changest thee.

4. Great Father of glory, pure Father of light, thine angels adore thee, all veiling their sight; all praise we would render, O help us to see, ’tis only the spendor of light hide the thee.

Words From hymnary.org

HYMN HISTORY/LYRICS ANALYSIS                 by Luke Powell

This hymn reminds me of the evening I took this photo from our deck across the yard.

Selah, I think it’s a loaded word. It’s kind of like a “pregnant pause” people talk about. In these days of wonder, waiting for God’s move, it behooves us to pause at the awe of the LORD.

Declare His will over this land, over your family, over your area. Look up, for our salvation is near. God shall defend the faithful. He is not slow as man considers it, but patient and long suffering. Awaiting the perfect timing for all to fall into place, all for His children’s good, His glory shall be revealed!

Shalom to you all, until next time.

Tying up loose ends…

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I honor my brother, Karl, today. He passed away May 24th, 2024, and today, August 23rd, would be his 68th birthday. I share this poem he wrote about his sisters:

Sisters

Friends, playmates, rivals.

Happy together, sometimes mean.

Teaching each other in time spent together.

Each her own person, together a team.

Value each other and enjoy your lives.

1/26/1999 Karl E. Stahl

Call To Action

One of Karl’s desires was that he could publish a book. This poem is from a booklet of poems Karl’s friend from high school printed for him. It’s title is: Just Focus Poems by Karl Stahl Copyright 1999 by Karl Stahl. Poems include: A Hint of Infinity, An Epic Journey, Drunk, A News Photo, At the Department Of Social Services, Panic Attack, and Sisters. If you would like a copy of this booklet of poems, please let me know and we can have more printed.

Psalm 2

One of the chapters of my devotions this past week was Psalm 2. I think it’s an appropriate study for this time in our world.

The Messiah’s Triumph and Kingdom

2 Why do the nations rage,
And the people plot a vain thing?
2 The kings of the earth set themselves,
And the rulers take counsel together,
Against the Lord and against His Anointed, saying,
3 “Let us break Their bonds in pieces
And cast away Their cords from us.”

Isn’t this what’s going on around the world today? The nations rage and plot. They want to throw off the restraints of the Lord. It seems easier to make your own rules and make your own gods.

God’s Derision/Wrath

4 He who sits in the heavens shall laugh;
The Lord shall hold them in derision.
5 Then He shall speak to them in His wrath,
And distress them in His deep displeasure:
6 “Yet I have set My King
On My holy hill of Zion.”

First, the Lord laughs; holds them in derision. He speaks to them in holy wrath… I have set My King on MY holy hill of Zion. King Jesus!

Son-ship/ Inheritance

7 “I will declare the decree:
The Lord has said to Me,
‘You are My Son,
Today I have begotten You.
8 Ask of Me, and I will give You
The nations for Your inheritance,
And the ends of the earth for Your possession.
9 You shall break them with a rod of iron;
You shall dash them to pieces like a potter’s vessel.’ ”

Yes, Jesus is the Son. Through Him, we are also sons & daughters. We shall ask Him for the nations and the ends of the earth for our possession, in the Name and power of the Lord Jesus Christ. Nothing can stand against Him, or against us who are called by His name!

Be Wise/ Be Blessed

10 Now therefore, be wise, O kings;
Be instructed, you judges of the earth.
11 Serve the Lord with fear,
And rejoice with trembling.
12 Kiss the Son, lest He be angry,
And you perish in the way,
When His wrath is kindled but a little.
Blessed are all those who put their trust in Him.

Speak to the kings and judges of the earth. Serve the Lord with Fear, Rejoice, Tremble, kiss the Son in honor before His righteous anger destroys those who plot evil.

BLESSED ARE THOSE WHO PUT THEIR TRUST IN Him! Do not be afraid of what is coming. Pray, declare the Lord’s will, and stand firm. Your salvation is near! Hope in God alone.

ELECTIONS

May I remind you, only about 33% of professing Christians exercise their right to vote. Oh, but “I don’t support any of the candidates; I don’t know who to vote for, so I never vote”. Well, seek the Lord while He may be found. He will lead you to the right choice. No candidate is perfect; look at the people God used throughout the Bible. What would happen if Christians stood up and grasped their God-given right to vote? Maybe God’s chosen candidates winning by a landslide???

In Conclusion: I declare an open heaven. By faith, take down what you need. Shalom, my readers.

Vengeance?!

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Romans 12:19 NKJV
Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord.

This was a motor home one of our neighbors brought to their piece of property down the hill from us. Notice that the front and the side window sill can still be read : VENGEANCE. Sorry, I took the photo with the trees in the way; this vehicle went all the way back to where it looks like it was!

When we left for an early morning testing run, this abode was in pristine condition.  On our way home from the run, we wondered why the garage doors on the firehouse were open. Then we drove past this motor home. Apparently, one of the rear supports sparked, and flames quickly spread from back to front. By the time we saw it, there was no fire, just a burned out shell..

I’m not sure why my neighbors chose this phrase for their temporary home, but apparently, the devil took full advantage of a flaw in the construction. Kind of reminds me of the insurance ads with “Mayhem” in them, reminding you to buy their insurance to protect your car from mayhem.

Apparently, the neighbors had insurance. There’s now a much smaller motor home parked on their property. Needless to say, it does not say VENGEANCE! Now it’s MALLARD and a bit shorter from front to back. Can anyone say, “Humbled!”?

What about your life? Are you usurping God’s authority and seeking vengeance of your own? Is there anyone you are holding a grudge against, despising, bitter against, or unforgiving? Maybe a government official, abuser, or accuser?

Hebrews 10:30-31 NKJV
For we know Him who said, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord. And again, “The LORD will judge His people.” [31] It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.

Those who belong to Jesus Christ are to live a crucified life. His kingdom is generally at odds with what we’ve been humanly taught. This includes forgiving those who wrong us, doing good to those who hurt us, and praying for those who persecute us. I am subscribed to The Voice of the Martyrs monthly magazine. It includes testimonies from Believers in difficult circumstances who are rejoicing in the Lord, loving and forgiving those who persecute them or take away their loved ones. It brings me back to the reality that we must forgive, or we hurt ourselves and we hurt others with our attitude.

Photo by Valeria Ushakova on Pexels.com

We have a multitude of chances to take vengeance ourselves in these days. The world encourages it. My husband is watching a series of Cold Case murders right now. All these families, for decades, are seeking peace by finding the perpetrator. Finally solving the murder and watching the perp arraigned, the family has settled their vengeance, but can never bring their loved one back by the years spent fighting.

Psalm 94:1 O Lord God, to whom vengeance belongs— O God, to whom vengeance belongs, shine forth!

My Lord God, bring us to a place where we can love like You do and forgive like Jesus has forgiven us. We will stand our ground in You, Lord, and look for Your justice to shine in this darkness that so many of us are living in. Keep us humble, at Your feet, and lead us on paths of righteousness, for Your sake. Amen.

I leave you with encouragement from Donna Rigney Ministries:

So Much Hapening!

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On the road again, on Father God’s path!

Sorry to take so long getting back to this post, but it’s the”lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer,” as that old song by Nat King Cole goes. Well, maybe not so lazy for us here! I’ll explain why.

ACTIVE LIFE, OR BUSY LIFE?

Planning for my brother Karl’s memorial service at the Presbyterian church in Lowville at the same time as a double graduation party at our house and lots of visiting family to coordinate, on top of my weekly cleaning job, our traveling job, and work cleaning at the motel. On top of tending the garden, replacing our septic tank, helping at the historical society, and so much more daily stuff.

Flowers for Karl and the church women feeding & serving us well after his memorial service and burial.

I am learning [slowly] to say, “I’m active,” instead of “I’m busy!” It’s a blessing and a privilege to have all these opportunities from the Lord to minister to others. Even though it can get tiring, I thank Him for the strength for each task He puts before me.

This is a great message from Facebook!

BOOK REVIEW

If you are connected with me on Goodreads, you’ll notice that I’m on a reading streak in the midst of all this life going on! One of the books I read is Valery Comer’s new book, A Sunny Sweetheart For A Cowboy. I enjoyed getting back to the Sweet River Ranch with the Sullivan crew to see a  prickly cowboy softened by a  sunny cowgirl. She’s got ADHD that she’s covering with a positive attitude, trying to crack this tough nut of a cowboy. She’s broken when a call from her sister flings her back into her troubled family. Will she and the surly cowboy overcome the past and trust that God truly is good?

Check it out at: https://valeriecomer.com/books/a-sunny-sweetheart-for-the-cowboy/

Valerie has a gift for creating characters that hit home. If you’re willing, her books give excellent relationship tools for your own life. I’m glad the quality of Christian fiction has improved these days, and Valerie Comer is one of the best series I’ve read!

GRADUATION

Faith’s graduation cap

So, last Saturday was an excellent day with family, friends, and an abundance of good food  for the graduation party. (Two grandsons spent the rest of the week with us, helping eat leftovers). We had rain most of the day, but a good time between our garage and house. We celebrated our granddaughter Faith and nephew Ethan’s accomplishments well. Thanks to all who were able to come.

Faith showed me her award/achievement cords and sashes, accompanied by brother Caleb & furry friend

MEMORIAL SERVICE

Monday, July 1st, was the memorial service for my brother Karl. Pastor Greg Jenkins did a good job organizing the service at Lowville Presbyterian church, and Iseneker Funeral Home did an excellent job helping plan and execute the day, including the service, transport to the cemetery and back, and an extra container of homemade cookies for us to take home.

The memory book set I chose,
Karl and our Mom’s favorite bird.

It was a blessing to have all three of my sons attend with their families and to have my sisters, Gretchen and Trina, there. With them were Gretchen’s husband Jim and Trina’s son Ethan with his girlfriend Penny. I’m glad our cousin Victor, from Utica, was able to attend also. Small crowd, but I’m glad some of our closest friends were there. Our old friend, Scout Master Scott Gray, honored Karl’s achievement of attaining Eagle Scout, and our friend Jim Deavers shared the amazing dedication and time Karl contributed to Lewis County Search and Rescue [LCSR].

It was a beautiful day to pause and celebrate a life well-lived and the hope and assurance of heaven. Trina and I sang Morning Has Broken together, a tribute to Karl’s love of nature. We all sang Holy, Holy, Holy , Great Is Thy Faithfulness, and Precious Lord, Take My Hand to continue to thank God for the morning and His faithfulness. We concluded with Amazing Grace, since it was one of the last hymns Karl sang, late in his nursing home stay.

This photo includes Jim, myself, Trina, and Gretchen. We are presenting Jim, representing LCSR, a memorial thanks with a hand-made glass cross Trina’s friend made in honor of Karl’s life and his service to the ambulance. You may make memorial donations in Karl’s name to Lewis County Search & Rescue, Lowville Free Library, or the American Heart Association.

Here is a link to his obituary.

https://www.isenekerfuneralhome.com/obituary/Karl-StahlFuneralService

WHAT ELSE?

Exodus 31:12 Then the Lord said to Moses, 13 “Say to the Israelites, ‘You must observe my Sabbaths. This will be a sign between me and you for the generations to come, so you may know that I am the Lord, who makes you holy.

Photo by Lisa Fotios on Pexels.com
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com
Photos by Pixabay on Pexels.com

Within less than a month, both Pastor Jenkins and Pastor Josh Gmitter spoke about taking a sabbath each week. It’s not just Old Testament Law, but a blessing from Father God. Turns out, taking 1 day out of 7 to rest, not doing your usual work, and honoring God can extend your life… and more! Pastor Gmitter calls it “corrective rest”.

You can find Pastor Greg Jenkin’s book on Amazon: Get Their Recipe Now: Discover the Legacy of Your Loved Ones [Paperback – November 10, 2018] it’s a unique book to start conversations to get family history down before it’s too late! (He and I swapped books; mine for his)

You can hear Pastor Josh’s sermon here: https://www.airportchristianfellowship.org/sermons/sunday-july-7-2024-corrective-rest/

AND how about that Biblical-magnitude torrential rain that’s shut things down in Lewis County, NY as I write? Here’s a link to a news story that tells more.

http://www.syracuse.com/news/2024/07/lewis-county-gets-more-rain-than-anywhere-in-ny-roads-and-homes-flooded-cars-submerged.html

The prophets have been warning that God is shaking everything that can be shaken. It’s a time to get closer in your walk with Jesus and trust that the Father truly is faithful to His people. I refer you to my previous post: “Trials Shall Come…” It is a great time to record and share testimonies of His goodness that will encourage others and lead sinners to Jesus. Don’t waste a single day that He gives you, but use your time to bless others as you have been blessed, or as you would want others to bless you!

I leave you with one more set of photos. That’s Grandpa with Owen & Logan on their successful fishing charter, the second bouquet of flowers for Karl [I told Jennifer Isenecker lots of colors for the flowers], Faith receiving her diploma, a good portion of our crew on the playground as part of our evening walk in the park, and Faith’s brothers Caleb & Steven at her graduation.

Trials Shall Come…

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John 16:33 These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”

Yes, Jesus assured us that trials (tribulation) not only may, but truly will, come into our lives. What do we do when they come? I believe trials can break you down, wear you out, cause you to lose hope. Can anyone say … depression?

Don’t Waste Your Sorrows!

But… when you lean into Father God, trials bring you deeper into your relationship with the Lord. They strengthen your faith as He proves His goodness through it all. To comfort others in their trials, we need to experience our own.

Comfort Others, Gain Experience

2 Corinthians 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, 4 who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.

Trials develop our compassion. Experience is gained so we can raise our levels of understanding.  We learn more about this life compared with heaven, and we understand more how God works in human lives. The accounts in the Bible make more sense.

Compassion gained from experience in action

Find the Hidden Gems

Trials develop patience. They are fertile soil to grow, making us more like Jesus. We experience goodness in those who walk the rough road with us or help us out at just the right time. When we begin to see the light, joy resurfaces.

I’m currently working through these devotions.

Trust God

We serve a God who knows the end from the beginning,  who has been from beginning to the end of all our lives. We can trust him that our sorrows will be turned to joy for His glory and our good.

I leave you to meditate on the following verses in Romans. I pray that the Holy Spirit will bless your understanding, and you will see the jewels in your darkness.

Romans 11:33 Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and His ways past finding out!

34 “For who has known the mind of the Lord?
Or who has become His counselor?”
35 “Or who has first given to Him
And it shall be repaid to him?”

36 For of Him and through Him and to Him are all things, to whom be glory forever. Amen.

When morning guilds the skies… my heart awakening cries… may Jesus Christ be praised!

Due to the early times we need to leave for our new job, this is actually a sunrise photo instead of my usual sunset!

God, What Are You Doing???

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I visited Smithville Baptist church the Sunday they hosted Jesus in the Passover. Laura Barron, from Jews For Jesus, presented excellent visuals as she explained what goes on in the Jewish household for Passover and how it relates to what we have in Jesus. 

This connection with Laura connected me with Karol Joseph, who is working with Laura on sharing Yeshua with Haredi women. [Strict version of Judaism].

Well, Karol offered a study she wrote: Counting The Omer Journey. This is the 50-day time between Passover and Pentecost, following the Israelites’ journey from Egypt toward the Promised Land. I get each week’s study in my email and print it off.

Karol takes me into the story, encouraging me to identify with the Israelites and how it relates to my own life story.

Exodus 13:17 When Pharoah let the people go, God did not lead them [the Israelites]by way of the land of the Philistines, although that was near. For God said,”Lest the people change their minds when they see war and return to Egypt. “

Three weeks into the journey, God has told Moses to have the people double back to encamp near the Red Sea. God said He was going to bring glory, but no one knows how yet.

Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

In Exodus 14, the people went out boldly, buoyed by the miracles God had done to release them.  Pharoah hardened his heart and gathered all his choicest military might to go and drag them back into slavery.

Exodus 149 The Egyptians pursued them, all the horses and chariots of Pharaoh, his horsemen and his army, and overtook them camping by the sea beside Pi Hahiroth, before Baal Zephon.

When the Israelites see this great army, they turn on God and on Moses. Forgetting that God is stronger than the might of Pharaoh, they are sure they will die on the shore.

We all know the great miracle God did. I encourage you to read chapter 14 of Exodus to get into this miracle our Lord orchestrated to show His great glory.

What about us in this era? The enemy is rattling its sabers and the world seems to have gone crazy! Can we trust our monetary system? Our government? Our vote and advocacy make some difference,  but ultimately,  if God does not do a miracle, all is lost.

Will we be like our ancestors in the wilderness and despair? Will we look to the arm of flesh and worldly comfort? Will we choose to remember the  LORD and in Him our confidence place?

We see from their example that we can not lean on ‘Egypt’ and go back to the leeks, onions, and flesh pots. Manna, the food of angels in heaven, is a perfect food. It’s just not as appealing to the senses as what they had in Egypt.

The slave mentality had its advantages because they were used to being told what to do and being provided for. But, complaining and unbelief kept them in the wilderness.  How much have we been enslaved by our culture? Our schools, our media? Our outlook on life is a major thing. Our abundance and comfort lull us and can make us forget where these blessings come from.

Photo by Aleksandar Pasaric on Pexels.com

This study I’m doing makes me wonder how God is going to save us by His mighty right arm this time. How much longer will the enemy rage? How much of it is our part? How much hangs  on our faith, our prayers, our actions to walk, in the light and love, of Christ?

Let us recount the great miracles we have read about. Also, ask the Holy Spirit to bring to mind the great things He’s done in your own life. It is our obligation to share our testimony and encourage others in faith.

Remember, mighty angels are waiting for us to tell them what to do! Use your power and authority in Jesus!

It’s May!

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Celebrate! It’s May, and God is on the move! I want to honor my youngest grandchild, Ashlynn Hope. Today is her 8th birthday 🎂. Friday the 10th is my youngest son Alex’s birthday. On May 14th, I will be 61. Then, on May 18th, grandson Jackson will be 12. Not to mention, my niece Kristen’s birthday is on the 17th, and don’t forget Mother’s Day on the 12th! What a busy month of blessings from Father God!

Photo by BECCA SIEGEL on Pexels.com

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem. The nation of Israel’s anniversary is May 14th. Let all those who love Israel rejoice and be glad, for the LORD’S promises are truly Yes and truly Amen!

Photo by Aleksandar Pasaric on Pexels.com

Joel 2:21 Be glad then, you children of Zion,
And rejoice in the Lord your God;
For He has given you the former rain faithfully,
And He will cause the rain to come down for you—
The former rain,
And the latter rain in the first month.

We have been experiencing a lot of rain these past few months. A few days ago, the above scripture came to mind. In the natural, I sense that the Lord is sending both the early and the latter rains at the same time! In the Spirit, I believe this corresponds with the reapers overtaking the sowers of the Gospel.

John 4:35 Do you not say, ‘There are still four months and then comes the harvest’? Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look at the fields, for they are already white for harvest! 36 And he who reaps receives wages, and gathers fruit for eternal life, that both he who sows and he who reaps may rejoice together.

Souls are so ripe for the harvest that many are eagerly accepting salvation with very little prompting. Check out testimonies from Iran Alive http://www.IranAlive.org and Voice of the Martyrs http://www.vom.org Ministries for some examples. Also, Crossroads Prison Ministry is looking for Spanish-speaking mentors because they have an increasing backlog of Spanish student lessons waiting for them. Most of these students have questions about their identity and salvation. They cannot wait! http://www.cmcarcelario.org

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Sorry, I realize I have a book review page, but I’m going to share some reviews on this post. I recently connected with author Noel Williamson. His first book I read is, Love is Like a Bag of Popcorn. In this book, Noel shares from personal experience from his first attempts to ask a girl out, leading you through popcorn, sports, movie, TV shows, and pertinent Scripture references, all the way into his newlywed days. I recommend this book for everyone from teens to adults who are looking for tips on godly relationships, whether you are married already or not.

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Photo by Chan Walrus on Pexels.com

Next, I read Job Loss AppleSauce Trusting God after Job Layoffs and Finding Comfort in Applesauce. You’ll need to read to the end of the book to find why he capitalized the S in AppleSauce! The way Noel handled things will help others navigate the job market and other life changes. As with the popcorn references in the first book, Noel was clever with his apple references continuing in every chapter! I read each book in an afternoon [of course it was raining] they are short, interesting books. In the same Amazon order, I acquired Willamson’s third book, A Salad Bowl of Wisdom Life Advice from a Diverse Group of Adults. He begins with interviews from a couple people in their 90s, then a friend in her 60s and another in his mid-50s. His original plan was to interview people in their 80s, 90s, and above, but realized his younger-older friends have a lot of wisdom also! I have not had time to get far in this book yet [we were blessed with a dry day], but his easy, personable style is refreshing. I recommend you check out Noel Williamson on Amazon!

By the way, if you have read my book or listened to my audiobook, Musings Along Life’s Journey, please leave a review on Amazon, Facebook, Goodreads, or anywhere you post reviews. I thank you in advance!

If I wish you Jesus and Shalom, I wish you everything! May you be blessed and be a blessing, finding joy in all you give and receive from the loving hand of Father God. Until next time, Shalom!

Hail to the Lion of Judah!

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Shalom to Israel!

Dear readers, I’m taking a break from the Bible Chaper 8:8’s study. My first actual speaking engagement was Saturday, April 27th. You probably knew about this event from my previous posts and sales page, and I want to share how it went. What a special day straight from heaven it was! 

I want to thank LiveMore Ministries for posting these photos on Facebook. My good friend Marta Cooper manned my book table and joyfully, graciously sold six books for me. My friend Pam Fowler was there for what I needed. My friend Delight Christman was an extra blessing, coming from Lowville, gifting me a lovely ceramic votive holder with bluebells on it. The Smithville women provided an excellent breakfast buffet, even offering cereal and oatmeal with both milk and almond milk ‐- along with crumb cake, a breakfast quiche, and fresh fruit ‐- offering something for everyone.

I will share the photos individually and explain them now.

This was from the press release. My husband John and I were each holding a book, I held the original, and John held the book from the second publishing. [He was cropped] By the way, if you have read my book, please leave a review on Amazon, Goodreads, Barnes and Noble, or any social network you use.

I was asked periodically during the weeks that  led up to this event if I was nervous, anxious, and prepared… well, I was too busy with life to be any of those things! I  had a good number of people praying for me, and I thank each one of you for your faithfulness.

I used the press release as a guide to jot some things on cards and put tabs in the proof copy of my book so I’d know where to find things quickly and the major things I wanted to share.  I decided which family pictures to take,  one of my parents, one of me with my four siblings, one with John and me with our children, and the collage I put together of our nine grandchildren. I also managed to make up a price list for the different versions of my book.  This all was challenging with my son Chris’s family coming to stay the weekend because my brother-in-law’s memorial service was also on Saturday. Thank God for Holy Spirit guiding and inspiration! I was blessed to be able to join the family after my speaking engagement.

Tammy Ditch, keyboard Joy Besaw guitar, Heidi and  Pam on backup

Tammy, Joy, Pam, and I made a great quartet to lead the women in worship.  I was so blessed to be able to help get us all in tune with the Spirit before I spoke. He really blended our harmonies well!

Heidi gets the spotlight

When I shared about “bananas and blessings,” I told about Cathy Connor gifting me with the cowboy boots, my former boss at the motel gifting me with the pants in a bag of cloths she gave me, and the beautiful sweater from the church rummage sale Pam and I attended last weekend. I said, “And this is how the Lord clothes us like the lillies of the field!”

I pray that everyone was as blessed as I was by all that went on at this event. It reminded me that in heaven, we’ll have eternity to spend time with each other. We all left with a small pot of peonies and a Save The Date card for the next LiveMore event.  You can check out their Facebook page and keep informed here:

https://www.facebook.com/LiveMoreMinistries?mibextid=ZbWKwL

I leave you with this prayer for Jerusalem from Psalm 122.

Psalm 122:6-9 NLT
Pray for peace in Jerusalem. May all who love this city prosper. [7] O Jerusalem, may there be peace within your walls and prosperity in your palaces. [8] For the sake of my family and friends, I will say, “May you have peace.”[Shalom][9] For the sake of the house of the LORD our God, I will seek what is best for you, O Jerusalem.

Book Review: The Power of Ownership

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I have the privilege of being invited by Daniel Decker to be on the launch team  for Justin Roethlisberger’s new book. It will be available to the public on April 24th.

After decades of research, advising professional sports teams and Fortune 500 companies, a personal health crisis led Justin to use his methods on himself.

Our society is geared to breakdown and illness, rounds of doctor visits, medicines, and protocols that treat symptoms but do not cure. This is average expectation for most people.  Justin challenges us to leave average behind and choose to be different. He believes that the majority of chronic illnesses could be prevented by establishing consistent, long-term, positive habits and behavior change.

In my own book, Musings Along Life’s Journey,  I shared my foray into getting healthy and my frustration with conflicting advice from experts. I concluded that there is no plan that works for me and you, but we should seek the Lord and experiment with things to see what works for each individual.

Justin gives a framework to build on in order to do this. A challenge he offers on page 198 is, “Allow your body to be the guide – not the study you weren’t involved in, or advice from an expert who doesn’t know you or have context into your life. Empower yourself and be your own study.”

As I began reading, I was skeptical of the spiritual end of his writing.  In the final chapter, Justin reveals his spiritual habits of Bible reading and prayer and uses Scripture that begin a chapter for the first time. I do not fault him since it probably makes the book more appealing to others.

One spiritual theme he touched on throughout the book is that fear is a killer. Throughout the Bible, we are encouraged to not fear or be anxious. The Lord knows how we were made, and He knows we can not live in fear and thrive. Another scripture brought to my mind as Justin talked about sleep is:

Psalm 127:2 It is vain for you to rise up early,
To sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows;
for so He gives His beloved sleep

I have gained tools to get better sleep. Also, a better way to eat. Justin suggests eating vegetables first, protein second, and carbs last at a meal, which helps your body assimilate the food better. He also recommends a 5- minute walk after a meal.

After reading the digital copy, I eagerly await my print copy of this book. I recommend it as a framework for learning to live your best life, all for God’s glory!