What an excellent book to be reading at this time, the book of Nehemiah! Today, I am using the NIV, reading in chapter 4. Join me as I lead you through.
The Enemy Taunts
In Nehemiah 4:1-3, Sanballat and Tobiah the Ammonite, in the presence of the army of Samaria, were taunting the Jews… “Even a fox climbing up on it would break down their wall of stones!”
Is anyone taunting you? Despising you?
The godly pray
The Godly Pray
Nehemiah prays, “Hear us, our God, for we are despised. Turn their insults back on their own heads.” (4:4)
Note: Jesus tells us to do good to our enemies, bless and do not curse. These days, we hear testimony of how taunting captors surrender to Jesus through prayer and love.
Angry Plots
After Nehemiah prayed, the Israelites worked with all their hearts. Sanballat, Tobias, the Arabs, the Ammonites, and the people of Ashdod heard the repairs continued. They became very angry, plotting together to fight and stir up trouble against Jerusalem.
Is anyone trying to stir up trouble, angry with you, or plotting against you?
Pray And Guard
Nehemiah tells us, “We prayed to our God and posted a guard day and night to meet this threat.”
Oh, that we may pray to God, our help and our salvation, and do our part to guard what belongs to us as His children.
Discouragement
Meanwhile, the people of Judah were discouraged. “The strength of the laborers is giving out, and there is so much rubble that we can not rebuild the wall.” On top of this, the Jews living near, ten times over, said, “Wherever you turn, they will attack us.” This hopelessness reminds me of Job’s wife telling him, “Curse God and die!”
What or who is causing you to despair?
Our children, our children’s children, their children’s children…
Remember God/Generations
Nehemiah posted families with weapons at the most exposed places. Then, after looking things over, he said,“Don’t be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your families, your sons and your daughters, your wives and your homes.”
Currently, the Sprit is putting emphasis on the generations and our responsibility towards those coming after us. Discern your vulnerable places and don your Spiritual weapons. Let faith and love keep your fear away. As Pastor Josh Gmmiter said in his sermon October 18 & 19, we should fear the Lord God Almighty more than we fear anything else!
Be Aware&Prepare
Their enemies heard that they were aware of them and that God had frustrated their plot. The people returned to work, half of them building and half guarding. Those who were carrying materials worked with one hand and held a weapon with the other.
Identity InChrist
How do we go about our day? Do we realize the war that’s raging in the spiritual world as well as the natural? Daily putting on our godly armor will equip us for what’s ahead. Wisdom is discerning who we are in Christ and who He truly is to us – relationship!
Sound The Trumpet
Nehemiah kept the trumpeter at his side because “the work is extensive and spread out, and we are widely separated from each other along the wall. Wherever you hear the sound of the trumpet, join us there. Our God will fight for us!”
Our work is also extensive, and we are also widely separated. Let’s sound the unifying Trump of the Lord. Remember, our God still fights for us! We are to work faithfully to spread the glory, love, and salvation this world truly needs.
Here’s an interesting quote by D. L. Moody, that’s on my calendar: ‘”Every great movement of God can be traced to a kneeling figure.” Lord, thanks for Praying Hyde and Father Nash, two praying saints behind previous moves of God that come to mind.
Pastor Josh Gmmiter, October 18th & 19th, ACF Church
I just finished reading the latest issue of The Voice of the Martyrs magazine subtitled, “HEEDING GOD’S CALL IN COMMUNIST NATIONS”. We are only an election away from socialists and/or communists coming to power in any country, so no one is exempt.
Our Response?
What should be our response? First, we can never trust that our help comes from those who rule. We as Christians must remember that:
My hope is built on nothing less Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness I dare not trust the sweetest frame But wholly lean on Jesus’ name
True Freedom
Second, the best way to change a society is to bring people to Jesus.
“Genuine revival among Ethiopia’s Christians led to Communism’s defeat in their country… Scripture, history, and today’s persecuted Christians bear witness that ultimately only Christ, enthroned in the hearts of our people, can make and keep our nations free.” VOM President, Cole Richards
A Sound, Disciplined Mind
Wednesday evenings Women’s Group at our church is beginning a book study, A Sound, Disciplined Mind by Nancy Dufresne. As Nancy says on the back of the book, you can live free from worry, fear, doubt & depression… not matter what is going on around us.
When we accept Jesus: your spirit is renewed, but your body and mind are not. They need to be disciplined to come into alignment with the renewed spirit within; your heart that belongs to Jesus. (P.12)
Right Thinking
“When you think wrong, believe wrong, or speak wrong, you give place to the devil… When you have right thinking, then you’ll have right believing and right speaking, and you will keep the door closed to the devil.” (P.15)
Renewing Your Mind
Start by reading God’s Word. Don’t just read Scripture, but think deeply into the Word. Mutter it to yourself. (This is true meditation) Talk to God about His Word. Thank Him for His Word.
Speaking in Tongues
Dufresne recommends speaking in tongues daily. I find doing this encourages my soul to praise the Lord and opens up my mind to connect with my soul. You can’t just try to get the devil’s suggestions out of your thoughts. You need to flood your mind with the truth of the knowledge of God’s Word and flush out the other thoughts.
Testimony
I encountered a woman manning a booth at a festival I went to this summer who practices Kripaula yoga, Reikei healing, tarrot cards… and has a group who have begun a “church,” and she’s got 30-some state certified healers. She said they believe in the Bible.
Well, I began speaking in tongues. She told me I was messing her up. She was trying to get a word for me but couldn’t. I told her I was speaking in tongues, asking the Spirit of God who to say to her. She let me hold her hand, and I prayed that the Lord would reveal to her the true Spirit of God.
My Takeaway
First, I witnessed that the spiritual battle is real, and if we have the Holy Spirit of God, we have an effect on others. Second, the more we grow in our relationship with the LORD, the more like Jesus we become, and the more we can bring heaven down to earth. All for His glory!
Conclusion
I’ve only read the introduction and first chapter in this book so far, and we haven’t had a meeting yet to discuss it. So far, I can tell you: get into the Word, apply it to your life, and make sure you fellowship with the congregation God wants you in, that helps teach you the Word. The more you put in, the more your heart and mind align with God’s Word and the more the kingdom manifests and the devil gets put in his place.
“By Jesus’ work on the cross, He satisfied the demands of God’s justice with regard to our debt, our state of enmity, and our crime.” R. C. Sproul
BIBLE READINGCONNECTIONS
I found this quote posted on my Facebook feed. Since my Daily Bible readings these days are in the books of Isaiah and Jeremiah, the LORD God Almighty is listing His people’s harlotry, which creates enmity between God and man, committing the crimes of unbelief and idol worship on every hill and in every village…
Each section reveals their debauchery and causes me to pause and realize that I am no different from them, except for the sacrifice of Jesus. It’s a good chance to search my heart, with the illumination of Holy Spirit, to cleanse my ways and turn back to full devotion to the Lord.
MY PERSONAL CONNECTION
This week has been full of times of questioning and standing firm in the peace I have been given. Things in the house were at a boiling point over my planned trip to Rochester area for Elim’s Prophetic Conference, July 31, August 1 & 2. Just as with the Israelites at the time I’m reading about, I have a choice to turn to the LORD or to turn belligerently against Him, going my own way. It all gave me pause to check my motives, to let Holy Spirit search my heart and illuminate any wrong ones.
ROAD TRIP?
I realize that I cannot drive by myself in the Rochester area, so I have been asking women I know that may want to go, to accompany me. Well, after about ten women not able to go and six week’s time, I was waiting on a woman to get back to me. Only ten days before the event, I tried three more women friends; none of them were willing/able.
One friend said she could go, then chose to stay home because she’s trying to unpack from a move cross – country. The woman I’ve been waiting for finally connected with me, she can go, if nothing comes up. I declare that nothing more will thwart this planned trip.
THE DEVIL IN THE DETAILS?
Amid all this, I found out I’d booked a hotel for the wrong weekend, non-refundable, and a runaround with the app I used & the hotel. Out $210 and deemed a “No Show” for a room I didn’t realize I’d rented, I claim that God has my back and will restore what the enemy has stolen. To top things off, our KIA needs service- the day before I leave- parts will need to be ordered. John would rather I don’t take his truck OR drive the KIA if it’s not working well.
BACK TO BIBLE STUDY
Oh, the Blood of Jesus, which washes white as snow!
This winter display reminds me of The Blood covering us!
THE ARK OF THE COVENANT
I have seen several movies and expedition shows searching for the Ark of the Covenant of God. I realize most seek the earthly riches of gold and precious metals. Today, this is what I read.
Jeremiah 3:16-17 NKJV “Then it shall come to pass, when you are multiplied and increased in the land in those days,” says the LORD, “that they will say no more, ‘The ark of thecovenant of the LORD.’ It shall not come to mind, nor shall they remember it, nor shall they visit it, nor shall it be made anymore. [17] “At that time Jerusalem shall be called The Throne of the LORD, and all the nations shall be gathered to it, to the name of the LORD, to Jerusalem. No more shall they follow the dictates of their evil hearts.
The Ark of the Covenant is no longer needed. It was the place in the earthly temple where the LORD dwelt between the cherubim in the Holy of Holies, where only the High Priest could enter once a year, to plead for the LORD to forgive the people’s sins.
I’m not sure exactly when the ark ceased to be here on earth, but I have an inkling that God either took it up to heaven or destroyed it. [see REVELATION below] People will not stop looking for this valuable item, but I believe they will not find it because Jesus’ sacrifice made it obsolete.
SHADOWVS TRUETEMPLE
Hebrews 8:1-2 NKJV Now this is the main point of the things we are saying: We have such a High Priest [Jesus], who is seated at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens, [2] a Minister of the sanctuary and of the true tabernacle which the Lord erected, and not man.
The Ark of the Covenant was needed for the priests to minister in the earthly temple, but this temple was only a copy or a shadow of what has always been in heaven. God allowed Moses to see the heavenly temple so he could make the earthly tabernacle according to God’s pattern.
Hebrews 8:4-5 NKJV – …since there are priests who offer the gifts according to the law; 5 who serve the copy and shadow of the heavenly things, as Moses was divinely instructed when he was about to make the tabernacle. For He said, “See that you make all things according to the pattern shown you on the mountain.”
In Israel, the Temple Institute is working to recreate the earthly temple and begin blood sacrifices. In the hotel lobby in Samaria, I saw a display case with all the items for the temple that have been created by modern artisans. They are working to breed the red heifer for the sacrifice; I think someone has already been successful at this. BUT…
THE NEW COVENANT
Through Jesus, we have a new covenant with God, removing the need for the earthly temple and its trappings.
Hebrews 8:6-7 NKJV – But now He has obtained a more excellent ministry, inasmuch as He is also Mediator of a better covenant, which was established on better promises. A New Covenant 7 For if that first covenant had been faultless, then no place would have been sought for a second.
REVELATION
Yes, the book of Revelation says that the temple in Jerusalem will be rebuilt, and there will be sacrifices offered as in the old days. But this will be short-lived. At the return of Jesus, every knee will bow, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord.
Revelation 11:19 NKJV Then the temple of God was opened in heaven, and the ark of His covenant was seen in His temple. And there were lightnings, noises, thunderings, an earthquake, and great hail.
TRUST & OBEY
Back to my road trip plans. I spent a couple days with my husband in a tizzy. The thought of me going on this trip- being away for our anniversary- does not sit well with him. Losing the money, needing to pay for another hotel room, the vehicle situation… it was all too much.
I laid down my desire to go to the Prophetic conference, my right to go further with my plans. I told the Lord, “I thought this desire to go came from You, but I lay it down before you.” I bless our marriage, our finances, our vehicles and all that is encompassed in this planning. I choose peace in the face of anger, fear & unrest. I chose to get on to tasks at hand instead of dissolving into a pool of tears, faith instead of the fears that are crowding around.
RESTORATION
As with the new covenant, I see the way clear to go to this conference! I have a friend going with me, a hotel booked for a reasonable price, God will take care of the vehicle decision, and my husband has settled down and blessed my trip.
To top it off, I am able to bless so many people with the bounty from our garden as I prepare for this trip!
PRAY
My dear ones, Psalm 122 tells us to pray for the peace of Jerusalem. It is God’s will that none would perish, but He knows the hardness of hearts. It’s up to us to work towards His kingdom here on earth.
REMINDER &CHARGE
REMEMBER! Jesus did not come to condemn the world, and neither should we. It is not our place to point out faults, but to love as Christ loves us.
Continue to pray the will of God, speak up every chance you get… with words of peace, encouragement, and salvation. Continue to speak the truth in love, and give freely to the work of the Lord. For the time is short, and there’s much to be accomplished!
SHALOMto Jerusalemand to all Israel! And Shalom to all of you! [Photo by cottonbro studio on Pexels.com]
I began this post as I was busy preparing to leave with David’s Kidz Uganda 25 in December. I’m just cleaning up my unpublished posts and finishing them. Here’s what I wrote with updates.
Packing
These are photos of what went into my checked luggage, staged for packing. Of course, a lot of it did not come back with me!
Welcome to my most recent musings. Christmas is coming, and I leave for Uganda in 12 days. Gathering things to pack, shopping with my husband, and wrapping gifts. Pleased to meet our granddaughter Faith at the train station, readying paperwork for tomorrow’s early run on the way there.
We had a good chat with our lovely granddaughter, Faith, a beautiful young woman excited to have time off from college. She was eager to share about her first trip into the city with friends. We had a good visit and meal with her family and animals when we got her home. it was a blessing to see them all and share our bounty of Christmas gifts with them.
Vehicle problems?
Did I mention that Faith used our KIA Telluride during her vacation because her mom’s car broke down on the way to pick her up? Which is why we headed down after our early run for work. A couple weeks after, they got a used minivan at a good deal from an individual.
With a bit of cleaning and fixing, it served them well. Until Joanna was driving Steve to a doctors appointment, and someone backed into it coming out of a driveway. Alex was able to fix it. But in February, he was waiting for new parts to put in, when he was coming home from work and got swiped by a woman at a corner. The van was totaled, but God is good! We were at his house for Steven’s birthday, so when he called, John and Joanna went to rescue Alex. Caleb & I were able to stay with Steve. SO, we plan on picking Faith up from college for Summer Break. Please pray for the transportation needs of their family.
Books
I have read three or four books and am halfway through another. I think I’ve said that I’m reading books from my stash to pick some to take to Uganda and leave rather than send them to Love Packages.
Well, I did get several books read and also purchased two Bibles to leave. I was able to give the books to Michael & Esther, who help Bishop Makka. Esther loves to read and couldn’t wait to read my book! [Bishop’s wife, Brenda, is also eager to read my book] I gave them the two Bibles, Esther claimed the blue one and Michael claimed the black one. I am so blessed to be able to bless them with tools for their ministry.
Uganda 2025 Davids Kidz
You will have to check out previous posts to find more of my writing about the Uganda 25 trip. It was an amazing time of adventure and growth. I encourage you to look into joining a short-term mission trip, as the Lord leads. There are lots of excuses for not going. The Lord can take care of them all if you are willing! “Here am I LORD, Send Me!”
Here we go with a smattering of things I’ve encountered in the past week. I hope you can make sense out of what I’m putting together. I am reading several books so I can decide which to take with me to bless the people in Uganda when I go in January, I will share two of them here.
God has heard the cries of the children. All the enemy is doing is aimed at destroying the children! We need to boldly rise up and destroy all the enemy’s plans with the truth. Of course, in the power and authority of Jesus Christ, we shall overcome! Riots shall come, but don’t give them any attention and they will fall apart (most of the people involved are paid to riot).
Psalm 20:1 May the Lord answer you in the day of trouble; May the name of the God of Jacob defend you; 2 May He send you help from the sanctuary, and strengthen you out of Zion; 3 May He remember all your offerings, and accept your burnt sacrifice. Selah
There is a banner of victory over the lives of God’s elect, declaring, “But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and manifests through us the sweet aroma of the knowledge of Him in every place” 2Corinthians 2:14. From: Called To Breakthrough. by Rabbi Kirt A. Schneider p. 103
Having Jewish blood myself, I enjoyed reading Kirt’s story. He’s had an amazing life so far, mixed with joy, angst, and persecution. In the last chapter of the book, he gives keys he’s found to truly living with our Messiah. I want to concentrate on these things he points out as I prepare to head to Uganda.
Psalm 20:7 Some trust in chariots, and some in horses; But we will remember the name of the Lord our God. 8 They have bowed down and fallen; But we have risen and stand upright.
Romans 8:31 What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?
In The Giftfor all people; Thoughts on God’s Great Grace, by Max Lucado, he shares the above passage from Romans. Let’s parse this out.
Godis for us,
God isfor us,
God is for us,
God is for us…
Go ahead. Read each line, as you emphasize the word in orange.
Now, if God is for us, let’s read each of the following:
Whocanbe against us?
Who can beagainst us?
Who can be against us?
Who can be against us?
I break in here to share about The Gift for All People. You may notice this book is smaller than average. I’ve read most of it in the past hour or two. I think it may make a wonderful gift for someone on your Christmas list? Here’s the book in a nutshell, from the back cover.
“More than anything, God wants you to be with Him. The God who designed your world, the God who placed you on the planet, simply wants you home with Him, and to bring you home. He offers you a gift… the gift of eternal salvation.
My prayer is that through the pages of this book you’ll see His gift like you’ve never seen it.
If you’ve already accepted it; you’ll thank Him again. And if you’ve never accepted it, I pray you will. For it’s the gift of a lifetime. A gift for all people. – Max Lucado
SOOO… If God is for us, who can be against us? God Is… not maybe, not has been, not would be, but… Right Now, God is FOR you!
As God told Rabbi Kirt, “Ascending the day.” It’s our calling.
Let’s get out and rejoice, spreading the Glory of the Lord from soul to soul, spirit to spirit. May our days ascend in Christ, not descend into the worldly trials of the day.
I leave you with a blessing from one of Rabbi Kirt’s favorite Hebrew sayings [translated]. (As found in Psalm 84:7)“May you go from strength to strength.”
Isaiah 43:19 Behold, I will do a new thing, Now it shall spring forth; shall you not know it? I will even make a road in the wildernessand rivers in the desert.
Do you see it? God is not working to bring us back to “Normal.” He is clearly doing something new! I caution you, as well as myself. Do not rejoice that justice has appeared, as Jesus said in Luke 10: 20, “… but rather rejoice because your names are written in heaven.” Pray for those who have found disillusionment. Reconcile with those who have been against you. Forgive others so God can forgive you.
A new thing?I’m not sure I’ve ever seen clouds like this before!
When Pastor Cheryl Gmitter spoke at LiveMore women’s ministry’s fall meeting, she sent us home with the following passage from Romans 12. Let’s see what this section of Scripture will teach us today, on this side of the heated election season. How do we walk in love and…
Behave Like a Christian
Romans 12:9 Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good.
For the past few mornings, I have heard, “Let love be without hypocrisy.” And could not think what came next. I’ve been listening to Kevin Zadai’s videos while I trim venison for my son. Kevin repeatedly emphasizes that we need to become secure in the Father’s love so that nothing can shake us. Have you turned off the news yet?
10 Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another; 11 not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord;
Humanly, it is difficult to give preference to others and continue in diligence and fervency. In the Spirit, as we faithfully serve the Lord, we become fervent and diligent. We must choose to be kind and affectionate, walking in brotherly love.
12 rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer;
Are you able to rejoice in these days? Do you hope in God, have patience in the hard days? It all comes from faithful times of prayer. [of course, time in the Word goes hand in hand with prayer]
13 distributing to the needs of the saints, given to hospitality.
This is a time to show our love for others by sharing what we have and spending time together, rejoicing and encouraging each other.
14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.
I hit a nerve with a Christian friend on Facebook as the election rhetoric heated up. I’ve rarely had anyone take offense at something I post, so her relentless back and forth caused me to dig in and practice this verse. It was several days before we agreed to disagree. I told her that no matter what happened with elections, I still love her as a child of God.
15. Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.
This verse is a difficult point, but it’s a good thing to walk out over this time of upset and division.
16. Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion.
Oh, the glory and joy that come when we heed this verse! When Jesus commanded us to love each other so our joy may be full, He meant it. What joy fills me when I’m communing with others who are full of the Spirit!
17 Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. 18 If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.
This is a stern warning! The devil and his demons like it when we repay evil for evil; it puts them in a tizzy when we keep good things high in our beings. It’s a creative choice when we choose to truly live peaceably with others.
19 Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord.
It’s a release from a heavy weight when we drop the weapon. Our Lord knows how to rightly deal with the offenders.
20 Therefore
“If your enemy is hungry, feed him; If he is thirsty, give him a drink; For in so doing, you will heap coals of fire on his head.”
In other words, many persecuted Christians have led those who persecute them to Christ! I leave you with this final directive:
21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
I bless you to live in Shalom and to find the open portals that bring heaven and earth together!
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!
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 FocusPoems 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.
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.
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:
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?
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.
Exodus 31:12Then 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.
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)
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.
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.
Musings along life's journey 