We Must Do Better

 

What do each of these homes have in common?  Go ahead - take a wild guess.  I'll give you time to think about it.  In the meantime, allow me to share my heart...

Nothing gets my dander up than seeing people treated with indifference based on race, economic class, or bias based on level of education. Perhaps that is because I've experienced bullying and abuse most of my life which allows me to recognize when others are being treated badly/abused. In our depraved world, this behavior should not be a big surprise - but c'mon folks can we not practice kindness, compassion, humility and generosity with those who have less?  Why stop there...it should be indiscriminate.

I know too many people who have much and lack the basic skills of generosity and humility.  I also know a large number of folks who have very little and are rich in humility, kindness, and give of their time if they can't give anything else (generosity).  Likewise, there are those (though I do not know them personally) who exhibit the opposite of the folks that I do know (rich who exceed with generosity without indifference and humility as well as poor who are self-centered and abound with a sense of entitlement mindset).

Recently, I discovered that someone dear to me is being treated with indifference by blood relations.  If I had hair on my spine, it would be raised up BIG time!  This bulldog would be on the attack for sure.  But, unfortunately, all I can give them is my attentiveness while they express the deep hurt they are experiencing.  In addition, I offer what advice or direction to obtain assistance that I can in the hopes they will heed it.  Help does not come if it is not asked for.

For the purpose of illustration, I will draw from my own personal experience. When I was married, my spouse's family and their spouses accepted me without question - as I did them. Once the marriage ended, for the most part, my daughter and I were essentially invisible to a large number of them. There were a few that still acknowledged our existence and invited us for visits. Once my daughter was of adult age, suddenly and without explanation, both of us were invisible or looked down on [save the small group that continue to consider us family]. The indifference we now experience does not make sense at all. We have done nothing to deserve this treatment.  Are we not good enough or economically equal to them?  Maybe in their eyes - but it should not matter one iota. It is sad, really.  They are the ones missing out greatly and, one day when their close inner circle is gone, they will reach out and find nobody in the outer rims with open arms simply because they continued to keep pushing that group of people (including me and K) further and further away.  I deeply miss those relationships and mourn them. Talk about the walking dead - and not the scary ones. Sure, I was hurt deeply by my ex-husband but that hurt did not extend to his family - they had no idea what he was doing to me.  

God's Word is filled with instructions as to how we are to treat one another and I find it alarming at just how far from obedience to those instructions mankind has fallen.  Either it is an air of indifference and choosing who to treat with humility, kindness, generosity, and love or just outright looking down the nose to all who do not fit in a pre-determined box! Here are some references you can look up at your own leisure as I do not want this post to become exhaustive: 2 Corinthians 1:4; Hebrews 13:16; Galatians 6:2-10; Proverbs 3:27-28; Matthew 25:42-46.  The following are personal favorites of mine:

"A generous person will be enriched, and the one who gives a drink of water will  receive water." - Proverbs 11:25

"Share with the saints in their needs; pursue hospitality." - Romans 12:13

"...If you get rid of the yoke around you, the finger-pointing and malicious speaking, and if you offer yourself to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted one, then your light will shine in the darkness, and your night will be like noonday." - Isaiah 58b-10

"Then He will answer them, 'I assure you: Whatever you did not do for the least of these, you did not do for Me either." - Matthew 25:45

So, in my assessment of the pictures that opened this entry, there is absolutely nothing visible that shows each home was not filled with love, protection, laughter, or generosity/humility. Sure, in the same breath, I can say that we do not see what is contained within the walls of each home (since any one home or all could hold dark secrets of abuse and neglect just as easily as they can hold great love and attributes of generosity, kindness, helpfulness, and hospitality).  The point is: we must do better.  We must put aside attitudes that illustrate indifference in technicolor.  We must work harder to be better towards each other - blood related or perfect strangers.  Each person with breath in their lungs is deserving of kindness, generosity, help and love.  Personally, I could care less if your income is $8k per year or $1M per year - all of us bleed the same.

Be blessed and (REALLY) be a blessing ~

W

Looks Like We're Still Here ~

And speeding closer to the big wedding day 😍

In 308 days, Kimmie and Dustin will be married in the wedding of their dreams and God's design.  I am certainly excited for my daughter, who has known abandonment and struggled with feeling worthy of love, to fully soak in all the love and adoration of Dustin.  He truly is the physical representation of the man I prayed God would set apart for Kimmie.  God is ALWAYS faithful to hear us - even when the answer is NO or WAIT.  But when the answer is YES - He holds nothing back.  What an awesome God I serve and love 💖

When reflecting on what we have experienced, I am reminded of all the times God has carried us, provided for us, protected us, and drawn us under His Wings. Kimmie and I have memories that still creep up to try and snare us in the trap of sadness, but we have far more Light shining around us that illuminates the path we walk on.  These are happy days - even in the knowledge that Christ could return and bring us to our eternal home.  Yes, there is joy in that future too.  

Planning for our eternal home should be filled with expectation and obedience - just as with any other event we anticipate with excitement, like a wedding, a birth, a graduation, and such without the huge price tag because Christ has already paid the price for us to enter in.  The challenge for us is to remain steadfast with our faith walk when trials come and the path narrows even more.  We must remember to always keep our eyes fixed on Him and not look down or to ourselves or man.  The traps can snare us much more quickly when we do not stay fixed on God through His Son, Jesus.  As John 3:16-17 says, "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved."

Currently at the church I attend, we are studying the Book of Hebrews and just began walking through chapter 2.  This chapter speaks about the danger of drifting away when we are not anchored in Christ.  Much like a boat poorly moored to a temporary post or dock that can come loose and drift off if not watched attentively, Christians can also drift if attention is taken away from our obedient fellowship with Christ.  I love how God uses imagery with me when showing me something about His character and love for me.  For example, the image of a boat tied up (see image):

Now the image of a boat that has drifted off:

I think of the account in God's Word when the disciples were at sea when a storm began to toss them about - this was after Jesus fed the masses with just five loaves and two fish - and Peter was called out to meet Christ on the water but, just when he was walking on the water he was overcome with doubt (took his eyes off of Christ Jesus) and began to sink.  I ask you to think for a moment about what could have possibly been the cause to divert Peter's eyes from Jesus.  Could it have been a thought about being unworthy?  A sense of being too weak to press forward in the storm?  Many times I have faced my own storms and struggled/wrestled with my human tendency to question those things in myself.  Once my eyes are not on Him, I sink down and drift.  When I turn my eyes back to Him, I am lifted and, once again, strengthened to keep moving onward to the prize of the high calling He has on me.  Truly, there is no safer place than in the arms of my Savior.  He is my Anchor, my Compass, my Healer, my Friend.

Another lesson from Hebrews 2 is that there is nothing better than drawing near and having relationship with Him.  It is secure. It is profitable. It is a foretaste of what awaits the obedient servant.  I'd much rather be anchored to Christ than set adrift to navigate the uncertain waters of life.  As Proverbs 3:5a says, "Trust in the Lord" and furthermore, He will make our path straight - or in this case, calm the winds and seas.  Trusting in and of itself is a calming action on our part.  Once we give our troubles over, there is a peace that passes understanding that falls on us.  I speak of what I know personally here - so give grace if that is not something you can also claim.  

Lastly, through trusting my Savior and staying anchored to Him, I can experience joy and have it to the full - in all things.  I may not know with exact date when He will come back, but I can still have joy for all the blessings He continues to give me: a wedding in February, good health, a sound mind, a content heart, and perhaps grandchildren.  I can only see so far into the hoped future - things I can strive for.  The rest is in His hands and I will continue to hold to hope and draw ever nearer to Him.

Nearer, my God, to thee, nearer to thee!
E'en though it be a cross that raiseth me,
Still all my song shall be,
Nearer, my God, to thee;
Nearer, my God, to thee, nearer to thee!

Though like the wanderer,
The sun gone down,
Darkness be over me, my rest a stone;
Yet in my dreams I'd be
Nearer, my God, to thee;
Nearer, my God, to thee, nearer to thee!

There let the way appear,
Steps unto heaven;
All that thou sendest me, in mercy given;
Angels to beckon me
Nearer, my God, to thee;
Nearer, my God, to thee, nearer to thee!

Then, with my waking thoughts bright with thy praise,
Out of my stony griefs Bethel I'll raise;
So by my woes to be
Nearer, my God, to thee;
Nearer, my God, to thee, nearer to thee!

Or if, on joyful wing cleaving the sky,
Sun, moon, and stars forgot, upward I fly,
Still all my song shall be,
Nearer, my God, to thee;
Nearer, my God, to thee, nearer to thee!

Yes, looks like we're still here ~

Be blessed and be a blessing,

WSW

Catch A Tiger By Its Tail

The month of October flew by!  It was filled with all things Fall: pumpkin spice latte, cinnamon rolls, baked apples with caramel, and chocolate.  There were football games and Homecoming festivities throughout this season as well.  Kimmie and I were not able to travel as much as we would have liked, but we did manage to spend a weekend at the end of the month in Marshall, TX/Jacksonville, TX for ETBU Homecoming and...wait for it:

💍💐HER ENGAGEMENT TO DUSTIN 💍💐

On 10/28/23, Dustin pulled off the BIGGEST of all surprises on Kimmie by taking her on a walk down memory lane at ETBU that ended at the new Ponder Park/Chapel on the Hill (ETBU Wedding Chapel) with a proposal of marriage.  This was witnessed by his mom, brother, my parents, and myself (Dustin's dad had gotten called away on work issue and was not able to come in person) and captured on film by a photographer from Haughton, LA.  Kimmie had her moments of getting wise to his plan and doubting a proposal would happen at all - and I am happy to say she was definitely surprised and overcome with emotions.  After the initial engagement pics, we walked around campus and the photographer took several other posed pics for engagement announcements/save the date cards before Dustin, Kimmie and I walked to the football field for the homecoming game and presentation of the homecoming court.

After the game, we headed to Tyler, TX to get into our hotel for a night (Dustin headed home to Jacksonville) since we were going to attend church with Dustin and his family the next morning.  Dustin's mom, Cindy, organized a sweet engagement party that the church body and close family of his attended.  There was brisket for tacos or sandwiches, chips and queso, spicy chicken to put on tortillas or bread, and cupcakes.  Kimmie was touched by all the love and wishes for happiness as she and Dustin embark on the next chapter of their relationship.

They have not set a firm date for the wedding, but are looking at late 2024 or early 2025.  There are lots of things to research and decide on, so having this year or more to plan is certainly beneficial.  Enjoy these pics from the homecoming weekend/engagement.  More to come!

Be blessed & be a blessing ~

A Timely Reminder

Dear Ones -

The following was posted on my old blog site and spoke to my spirit today.  I feel like it is a timely reminder to share once more.

~ W

Reflections: Life’s Winding Road

October 02, 2009

I’m in a reflective mood today – probably as a result of this being October and the start of fall. I enjoy the feeling I get at this time of year. Can’t explain it – could be that October means that my favorite holiday isn’t too far away. No, it isn’t Halloween! My favorite holiday is Christmas. I’ve always gotten excited from October to December as far as I can recall. My fondest memories are from my childhood in Long Island, NY when we’d have snow and it really could have been a picture from Currier & Ives.

Another reason is that, including the first part of spring; this is a time where I find myself seriously reflecting on my life. Part of that comes from the fact that I do yearly newsletters to send with my Christmas cards to family and dear friends and I have literally 12 months of memories, achievements and so much more to share.

You could say that this time of year finds me looking at where the winding road of life as brought me from and where I am headed. I don’t look back so much to chastise myself, though I do have plenty of regrets and dreams that I didn’t fulfill. I think many of us find ourselves in this place. It’s not so much the looking at where I’ve been, but the looking forward – like the picture above – to see what lies ahead, within the view. There are still unknowns and bumps along the way; however, there is just something exciting about the journey. Like this quote I found, it eloquently says what I feel about this faith journey I am currently on:

“Faith isn’t the ability to believe long and far into the misty future. It’s simply taking God at His Word and taking the next step.” ~ Joni Erickson Tada

His Word says that He has plans for us to give us a hope and a future. What it doesn’t say is how long that future is. Our days are not ours; He has already set aside the number of days for each of us. When our number is called, that is it. Several years ago, I wouldn’t have cared about this fact. Since being saved by grace in 2000, all I desire is to know Him, to live my life in a manner that is pleasing in His sight (not the sight of man), to be a living testimony. The one hurdle I have had is growing in the faith.

It’s so much like when you are a child and you have growth spurts – you get growing pains. Your joints hurt, your bones feel like they are going to pop right through the skin. With faith, at least my experiences, I have felt like my heart was going to explode from the pain. See, my journey has taken some major turns that I couldn’t have foreseen at the time I was saved – starting with the demise of my marriage. I knew my marriage wasn’t stellar; but I still knew that running away wouldn’t solve any of the issues. I knew I was being abused; but I thought it was what I deserved. It was only after I knew that God didn’t design that for me that I realized a supernatural, spiritual change would have to occur to save my marriage. So I began praying for my husband, began steadfastly living my life in Christ around my husband hoping he’d be so hungry for the same and want to come to Christ too. The problem was/is – he doesn’t believe in God. I was unequally yoked. I had to step aside and let God take over. When decision to divorce was made, I did have a peace about it. So, I don’t regret the decision; I regret all the pain we both inflicted to each other during the marriage. Some things just can’t be taken back after they are said.

But then, there are the turns in the road that bring joy and blessing. If you’ve kept up, you have seen some really good stuff about Kimberly. There was a time when I was told that she’d never walk and that she would be delayed in ability to learn (I am now sure that the doc we had then in TX was not trustworthy or qualified to make those statements), so to have her physically growing into this beautiful young lady, who is WAY capable of learning and excelling, is truly a blessing. I love my baby girl very much and daily tell her this because I don’t want her to ever doubt that or think that I don’t. It goes back to earlier when I said we don’t know the number of our days – so I do my best to tell those I love how I feel and do at least one thing each day that gives God glory.

I am looking forward to the turns in the road that lie ahead. I am hopeful that on this journey – both life and faith – there will be happy surprises and realized goals. Oh, I know that I’ll still have the bumps and even big, gaping potholes from time to time; but I am equipped with the Master Navigator as my GPS and know that I can trust Him at all times. I don’t have to be anxious when sidelined on the side of the road or at those times when I am forced to stop. I know that these times of tribulation (also promised in the Word to occur) are only temporary and serve to grow me that much more. It has taken me a long time to accept that statement, and I am a little surprised that I even said it (much less shared with you!). You know what? Joy always comes in the morning!

I’m going to leave you now with another quote I found when searching for inspirational quotes on faith. I do hope your winding road and journey, whatever it is, is blessed and you find a way to be a blessing – no matter how little you may seem to think it may be, it counts largely.

“Faith is no irresponsible shot in the dark. It is a responsible trust in God, Who knows the desires of your hearts, the dreams you are given, and the goals you have set. He will guide your paths right.” ~ Unknown

Times of Uncertainty...or are they?

Social media is buzzing with posts about these current events in Israel being the start of the Rapture or even the return of Christ Jesus, which based on what I have been able to research are two different events altogether.  Both, however, are just the start of the Tribulation period and, for me, the true indication that God has completed the work He began at the start of Creation.  I have also found that there have been several other times in history where Christians were convinced that the End Times were in their lifetime - so far six different wars in or over Israel in the last century.  Uh-oh...this means this current conflict is the seventh (seven meaning completion).  However, I go back to God's Word and find many times where there is mention of the destruction or end of this world and yet a promise at the same time that we are not to fear these things.  God promises a future and a hope; He promises to be our strength and protection; He promises to restore and bless; and His love never ends.  He even promises a new Heaven and new Earth - what that means I have not yet learned, but I am open to discovering as God chooses to reveal it.  

Does all this mean that I have "rapture anxiety"?  I don't know, honestly.  I am not fearful of leaving this corrupt and sinful place that was once created to be a place of great beauty and peace - at least that is how I see Eden at the very start being.  Furthermore, I am not fearful of standing before God in Heaven because my confidence is in Christ Jesus, now and forevermore.  Perhaps the only lingering feelings of remorse are from the past - which I have to daily shed because they no longer have any power over me in Christ; they are filthy rags that I have taken off.  I am now clothed in grace and mercy that my Father adorns me in.  And yet I do hold onto faith the size of a mustard seed and the promises of hope and a future because I desire to witness my own daughter married and starting her own family so that I can see the fruit of His work in and through Kimmie and Dustin.  These two young adults are passionate about living righteously before God and men, sowing seeds of salvation for the harvest yet to come, proclaiming the redemptive work only accomplished by Christ Jesus.  Maybe it is foolish of me to have such hope, but I do not believe that God would answer prayers for a spouse, child, provision, healing, or other desire of the heart just to wipe it out as if it was of no value.  Everything created by God has purpose and worth - and He says nothing from Him returns void.  

I do believe that a revival and awakening started in 2022 and is only gaining momentum, though it appears the noise of it has quieted.  Not sure exactly why, but just because the noise is less robust does not mean the work is done.  The events happening now in Israel are definitely a wake up call for all of mankind - not just Christians - to recognize the great evil that permeates through every weakness of ours: greed, selfishness, pride, hatred, prejudice, jealousy, and lack of compassion.  Yes, my dear Christian friends, we are also not immune to these venomous traits despite our conscious efforts to ward them off.  There are times when I still find myself swallowed up by one or more and then being convicted by the Holy Spirit to seek forgiveness from God and those who I harmed with these traits.  Be assured, none of us wakes up determined to harm another person and yet, when we are not careful of our sinful nature, we can do great harm without realizing it is happening.  

Personally, it grieves me to watch those I love and admire be on opposite ends of what they believe - whether that is spiritual or political or moral.  I have come to a point when I meet with others to use the disclaimer "let us agree to disagree in this area" and then continue to fellowship and love on them.  There will be a day when we all will be in one accord when we are bowing before His Throne.  Following are scriptures that support what I have stated here - whether you agree or not is not the issue:

Romans 6:6-7 Holman Christian Standard Bible

6 For we know that our old self was crucified with Him in order that sin’s dominion over the body may be abolished, so that we may no longer be enslaved to sin, 7 since a person who has died is freed from sin’s claims.

2 Corinthians 5:17, 20-21 Holman Christian Standard Bible

17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away, and look, new things have come….20 Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, certain that God is appealing through us. We plead on Christ’s behalf, “Be reconciled to God.” 21 He made the One who did not know sin to be sin[a] for us, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

Jeremiah 29:11 Holman Christian Standard Bible

11 For I know the plans I have for you”—this is the Lord’s declaration—“plans for your welfare, not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.

Proverbs 23:18 Holman Christian Standard Bible

18 For then you will have a future, and your hope will never fade.

Proverbs 24:14 Holman Christian Standard Bible

14 realize that wisdom is the same for you. If you find it, you will have a future, and your hope will never fade.

Galatians 2:19-20 Holman Christian Standard Bible

19 For through the law I have died to the law, so that I might live for God. I have been crucified with Christ, 20 and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.

Galatians 6:14 Holman Christian Standard Bible

14 But as for me, I will never boast about anything except the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. The world has been crucified to me through the cross, and I to the world.

Ephesians 2:10 Holman Christian Standard Bible

10 For we are His creation, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared ahead of time so that we should walk in them.

Acts 24:15 Holman Christian Standard Bible

15 And I have a hope in God, which these men themselves also accept, that there is going to be a resurrection, both of the righteous and the unrighteous.

2 Peter 3:13 Holman Christian Standard Bible

13 But based on His promise, we wait for the new heavens and a new earth, where righteousness will dwell.

Mark 13:4-27 Holman Christian Standard Bible

4 “Tell us, when will these things happen? And what will be the sign when all these things are about to take place?” 5 Then Jesus began by telling them: “Watch out that no one deceives you. 6 Many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am He,’ and they will deceive many. 7 When you hear of wars and rumors of wars, don’t be alarmed; these things must take place, but the end is not yet. 8 For nation will rise up against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be earthquakes in various places, and famines. These are the beginning of birth pains.

Persecutions Predicted

9 “But you, be on your guard! They will hand you over to sanhedrins, and you will be flogged in the synagogues. You will stand before governors and kings because of Me, as a witness to them. 10 And the good news must first be proclaimed to all nations. 11 So when they arrest you and hand you over, don’t worry beforehand what you will say. On the contrary, whatever is given to you in that hour—say it. For it isn’t you speaking, but the Holy Spirit. 12 Then brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child. Children will rise up against parents and put them to death. 13 And you will be hated by everyone because of My name. But the one who endures to the end will be delivered.

The Great Tribulation

14 “When you see the abomination that causes desolation[e] standing where it should not” (let the reader understand), “then those in Judea must flee to the mountains! 15 A man on the housetop must not come down or go in to get anything out of his house. 16 And a man in the field must not go back to get his clothes. 17 Woe to pregnant women and nursing mothers in those days! 18 Pray it won’t happen in winter. 19 For those will be days of tribulation, the kind that hasn’t been from the beginning of the world, which God created, until now and never will be again! 20 Unless the Lord limited those days, no one would survive. But He limited those days because of the elect, whom He chose. 21 “Then if anyone tells you, ‘Look, here is the Messiah! Look—there!’ do not believe it! 22 For false messiahs and false prophets will rise up and will perform signs and wonders to lead astray, if possible, the elect. 23 And you must watch! I have told you everything in advance.

The Coming of the Son of Man

24 “But in those days, after that tribulation:

The sun will be darkened,

and the moon will not shed its light;

25 the stars will be falling from the sky,

and the celestial powers will be shaken.

26 Then they will see the Son of Man coming in clouds with great power and glory. 27 He will send out the angels and gather His elect from the four winds, from the end of the earth to the end of the sky.

 

Mark 13:32-35 Holman Christian Standard Bible

No One Knows the Day or Hour

32 “Now concerning that day or hour no one knows—neither the angels in heaven nor the Son—except the Father. 33 Watch! Be alert![a] For you don’t know when the time is coming. 34 It is like a man on a journey, who left his house, gave authority to his slaves, gave each one his work, and commanded the doorkeeper to be alert. 35 Therefore be alert, since you don’t know when the master of the house is coming—whether in the evening or at midnight or at the crowing of the rooster or early in the morning.

Matthew 25:1-13 Holman Christian Standard Bible

The Parable of the 10 Virgins

25 “Then the kingdom of heaven will be like 10 virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the groom. 2 Five of them were foolish and five were sensible. 3 When the foolish took their lamps, they didn’t take olive oil with them. 4 But the sensible ones took oil in their flasks with their lamps. 5 Since the groom was delayed, they all became drowsy and fell asleep. 6 “In the middle of the night there was a shout: ‘Here’s the groom! Come out to meet him.’ 7 “Then all those virgins got up and trimmed their lamps. 8 But the foolish ones said to the sensible ones, ‘Give us some of your oil, because our lamps are going out.’ 9 “The sensible ones answered, ‘No, there won’t be enough for us and for you. Go instead to those who sell, and buy oil for yourselves.’ 10 “When they had gone to buy some, the groom arrived. Then those who were ready went in with him to the wedding banquet, and the door was shut. 11 “Later the rest of the virgins also came and said, ‘Master, master, open up for us!’ 12 “But he replied, ‘I assure you: I do not know you!’ 13 “Therefore be alert, because you don’t know either the day or the hour.

Isaiah 55:10-11 Holman Christian Standard Bible

10 For just as rain and snow fall from heaven

and do not return there

without saturating the earth

and making it germinate and sprout,

and providing seed to sow

and food to eat,

11 so My word that comes from My mouth

will not return to Me empty,

but it will accomplish what I please

and will prosper in what I send it to do.”

 

Isaiah 65:17 Holman Christian Standard Bible

A New Creation

17 “For I will create a new heaven and a new earth; the past events will not be remembered or come to mind.

Revelation 21:1-4 Holman Christian Standard Bible

The New Creation

21 Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea no longer existed. 2 I also saw the Holy City, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared like a bride adorned for her husband.

3 Then I heard a loud voice from the throne:

Look! God’s dwelling is with humanity,

and He will live with them.

They will be His people,

and God Himself will be with them

and be their God.

4 He will wipe away every tear from their eyes.

Death will no longer exist;

grief, crying, and pain will exist no longer,

because the previous things have passed away.

Revelation 3:10 Holman Christian Standard Bible

10 Because you have kept My command to endure, I will also keep you from the hour of testing that is going to come over the whole world to test those who live on the earth.

So, my friends, let us not be fearful or anxious about what we see because I do believe there is much more work to be done.  The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few.  We must continue to proclaim the gospel in words and action while we have breath in our lungs and blood in our veins.  I refuse to be a porch chair Christian watching the skies when I can be actively sharing Christ with those He brings me in contact with.  While doing so, I will cling to the hope He has put inside my soul and live.  Only He knows the number of my days and hairs on my head.  

Be Blessed and be a blessing ~

W

One Number That Is NEVER Busy - God's Phone Number

 A few weeks ago I posted about "Perseverance In Prayer" that was influenced by my personal quest to memorize Scripture using The Joshua Code by O.S. Hawkins.  This post is a continuation of this topic on prayer - specifically God's faithfulness to hear our petitions.  The verse reference was Jeremiah 33:3 "Call to Me and I will answer you, and I will tell you great and mighty things which you do not know."  The first part of this verse is an assurance from God that we can call on Him and He will answer us.  The following part is a promise of revelation that He will tell us of things far and above what we already know that have not yet happened (read Ephesians 3:20).  

You see, prayer is a two-way form of communication and a way for our relationship to strengthen with God.  The more we pray, the stronger our faith becomes and the deeper our confidence in that same faith gets.  Like the psalmist writes in Psalms 1:3 "He is like a tree planted beside streams of water that bears its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers."  A tree that is nourished by water will have strong roots that run deep, much like one who has a healthy prayer life will be nourished by the Holy Spirit and that nourishment will only work to making our faith go deeper and stronger.

The part we express in this two-way communication is the actual prayer, or talking part of the relationship.  Hawkins reiterates what many psychologists and counselors know as fact: "to have a positive and productive relationship, there must be verbal communication" (page 65).  This is also true when we pursue our relationship with God - there MUST be communication.  If we fail to express ourselves verbally to our loving Father, the health of the relationship will deteriorate or die.  We simply cannot let this happen - prayer is vital for our own spiritual growth!  As Luke illustrated in his gospel, communicating with Him causes our hearts to burn when we hear from Him and, Hawkins states, when we hear from the Lord, God opens the Scripture to us (Hawkins, 2012).

There are four truths that we can take from a healthy prayer life: 1) God desires to fellowship (have relationship) with us; 2) God knows what is best for us; 3) God teaches us lessons by way of our prayers when answered as we ask or not; and 4) God reveals things to us about His character, His plans, and His love for us.  These truths, when examined, show three things: why we pray, when to pray, and how to pray (Hawkins, 2012).  Hawkins (2012) illustrates prayer as being like a symphony - "the Bible is the score, the Holy Spirit is the conductor, and we are the instruments".  Furthermore, when we talk to God in prayer, He becomes real to us.  Another tangible benefit from prayer is that a new dynamic to our Bible reading forms.  Simply put, the reason why we pray is because God knows better than you and I about what we really need this side of Heaven.  Hawkins (2012) states it this way: "[a]s we read God's Word, the Holy Spirit leads us in our prayer life, and we actually begin to pray the Scriptures for ourselves and for others."  1 Thessalonians 5:17 exhorts us to 'pray without ceasing' - in other words, live in a constant state of communion with God as we set out about our work and witness.  We can take our cues from Jesus, the One Who was without sin, as to when to pray: day and night; in good and bad times; after great accomplishments and before great temptations of life.  In all circumstances, He prayed - as should we.  Lastly, how we pray is important. 

There is a formula of sorts to prayer that Hawkins (2012) outlines as the right combination of humility and honor to God. He states that prayer should begin with confession, or agreement with God, that our sin is not to be minimized just because it may not be as bad as another person's transgression. Sin itself is what made the cross necessary.  In our confessing, we should shine light on the sins related to our words, actions, thoughts, and omission (knowing to do right but not doing it).  God promises us that "if we confess our sins, God is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" [1 John 1:9].  From here, we move to the prayer of thanksgiving - thank Him for material blessings, physical blessings, spiritual blessings, and for the people who are important to us.  Next comes the prayer of praise where we thank God for what He has done - for who He is!  Recognize Him for His wonderful characteristics of goodness, patience, holiness, and mercy.  After the prayer of praise, the next step is the prayer of intercession where we can boldly come to the throne of God on behalf of others (family members, friends, national and local leaders, unbelievers, and those who have spoken against us).  Through prayer, we learn to be less selfish and more mindful of the needs of others. This is followed by the prayer of petition where we ask God for anything and everything that He has laid on our own heart.  Lastly, there is the prayer of communion - and this is the part of prayer that is more than just mere words - it is where we become still and listen to God.  

As part of the chorus in "Honey In The Rock" states:

I keep looking, I keep finding
You keep giving, keep providing
I have all that I need
You are all that I need
I keep praying, You keep moving
I keep praising, You keep proving
I have all that I need
You are all that I need

Be blessed & be a blessing ~

Wendy

Looking Ahead: A Birthday Post

 

There comes a time in life where we find ourselves reflecting back on the life we've lived, oftentimes landing in a pit of regret.  At least that is what I have found to be true - for me.  Now that my 56th trip around the sun is less than 48 hours, I felt the time was right to write down the lessons that I have learned so far as well as what I hope for the future - however much time God blesses me with in order to further live as a living testimony before others.

Over the twists and turns my life has taken (the ones that I can recall, that is), I have experienced more than many people realize or have knowledge about.  For this post, however, I am only going to reflect on the lessons that truly had a profound impact on me.  The first lesson: I am resilient.  Though it was hard to see in difficult situations, I can confidently say this about myself.  By definition, a resilient person is one who possesses "the ability to withstand adversity and bounce back from difficult life events. Being resilient does not mean a person doesn't experience stress, emotional upheaval, and suffering. Resilience involves the ability to work through emotional pain and suffering." From the years of bullying endured in school to the abuse experienced in my marriage, I have bounced back from these challenging life events - albeit a bit shaken, but still able to stand again.  That is not to say that my feelings were not stomped on beyond recognition - they were.  What I can say today is: no matter the difficulty faced, I can stand firmer against it and, should I stumble, know with certainty that I will stand once more.  there is a motivational sign in my office that says, in part, "sparkle in my eye and a smile on my face. yep, I'm ready for the day...bring it on!"

The second lesson: I possess tenacity. Thinking of examples from my life to illustrate this strength has proven to be a bit more work for this old gal. After all, the definition of tenacity (on the surface) is not what I think of my traits at first: "the quality displayed by someone who just won't quit - who keeps trying until they reach their goal." I know many might think that of me because they have watched me be focused in light of my other trait of resilience.  Focus and tenacity, for me, are two different things entirely.  however, after reflecting on my life, I can see that I do possess tenacity in that I do have a blend of determination, persistence and grit when it is applied to the goals I have set for myself.  I don't want to let go of what I am pursuing, especially if that objective serves to help me grow as an individual.  Being born in the hot month of July, my zodiac sign is the crab (Cancer) - a crustacean that has a hard shell and no backbone (okay - I know that not having a backbone is not really a great thing from the lens of human qualities i.e. being able to withstand adversity and be courageous).  I have a nightshirt that lists a few qualities/traits of someone born under this sign: nurturing, tenacious, imaginative, affectionate. My dad used to tell me that I had the tenacity of a bulldog (meaning that it was not easy for me to let go once I had a hold of something I wanted - like a dog with a bone).  Using the crab again, I have a hard shell and pincers that apply a force many do not expect me to have.  All in all, when applying tenacity to myself, I can agree wholeheartedly with possessing determination (focus), persistence (endurance/longsuffering) and grit (courage/resolve; strength of character).

The third lesson: I am optimistic. This last lesson likely does not come as a shocker to those who truly know me. For as long as I can recall, my tendency has always been that of a glass half full perspective. Despite being bullied in school, I was inclined to (after the required tears were shed) remain hopeful that those who bullied me would become my friends. Despite mental illness and abuse, I remained hopeful that my marriage would survive - and though it did not survive as I hoped, I personally did and successfully protected my daughter from further trauma witnessing the domestic violence that was going on. Furthermore, being a single parent who had to rewrite her goals and envision new dreams, I remained optimistic about my daughter's life experiences in the face of her own challenges - refusing to let anyone tell me otherwise.  Lastly, having been separated from two great jobs under no fault of my own design, I allowed myself the time to mourn the lost income before dusting myself off and putting on my optimistic lenses once more.  The outcome of the optimistic perspective?  Refocus and redirection.  You see, no matter what you set out to do, the first steps are to have focus and direction - see where you want to go and chart the path to get there.  Optimism is vital when initially chasing one's dreams; but most notably when one finds themselves hitting a large obstacle that knocks them off course.  Then they must re-focus (renewed vision for where one wants to go) and then re-direct (discover a new path to get there or identify the right way to get back on the initial path taken).

These three lessons are the ones that have truly impacted me over these 56 years of living - more so in the last 35 years than any other. I am certain that they will continue to impact me for the remainder of my days allotted to me by my Creator, my Father - God.  My only desire is to make the most of these lessons, as well as any others that I learn from, so that they leave a fingerprint on those who come after me. A legacy of sorts, perhaps. A moral of the story, certainly. An illustration of a life filled with joy, blessing, and love - definitely.

Be blessed & be a blessing ~