July 3, 2025

Whom do you follow ?

Don't we always worry about who our kids' friends are?  That's because we realize that their friends will influence their behavior.  Proverbs 18:2 "One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin..."

But as adults we need to realize the same is true.  Who are our friends?  Who are those people we look up to?  Who are our heros? "Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart, and the pleasantness of a friend springs from their heartfelt advice."  Proverbs 27:9

In recent years we have seen unlikely people become heros.  May 2020 we saw a man with an extensive criminal record become such a hero.  After his death, we saw christian churches demonstrate against the injustice.  Pastors posted a black square to show support, instead of preaching the Gospel of peace.  We saw riots in the streets that caused approximately 2 billion dollars in damage, lives were lost, businesses were shut down. And yet statues were built in his honor.  

Presently, there are a few criminal cases that have GoFund me pages that have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars from supporters, from fans.  Proverbs 22:24-25, "Do not make friends with a hot-tempered person, do not associate with one easily angered, or you may learn their ways and get yourself ensnared."

This devotion for these criminals crosses the lines of faith, gender and age.  Why?  Have

We have lost our moral compass as a nation.  Proverbs 11:3."The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity."

As we see a shift in the Nation, away from left and progressive ideologies, it's time we analyze ourselves.  2 Corinthians 13:5 "Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test?"

“It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in humans” Psalm 118:8

Paul instructs us, "Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ." 1 Corinthians 11:1, "Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do." Philippians 3:17

When we follow someone, we listen, we give them stage in our lives and we imitate them.   So, I ask you today, whom are you following? Are you following entertainers, singers, social justice warriors or are you following those that follow Paul, who followed Jesus?

During the riots a missionary, with a theological degree, assured me that supporting the riots was the right thing to do!  I am still looking into the scriptures to support her viewpoint (sarcasm).

But what I did find is a warning from Jesus, Matthew 7:13-14  "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.”

Jesus teaches that the "narrow road"

June 30, 2025

Fasting Part:2

Earlier this week we discussed why we should fast, today lets analyze the HOW!

The Bible mentions several types of fasting, each with distinct purposes and practices. 

Complete Fast: Abstaining from all food and drink for a specific period.

Esther called for a complete fast (no food or water) for three days to seek God’s intervention (Esther 4:16). Often for urgent spiritual needs or crises.

Partial Fast: Limiting certain foods or meals while allowing others (e.g., abstaining from specific types of food like meat or delicacies).  Daniel fasted by eating only vegetables and drinking water for 21 days (Daniel 10:2-3). Seeking spiritual clarity, mourning, or self-discipline.

Water-Only Fast: Consuming only water, abstaining from all food.  Jesus fasted for 40 days in the wilderness, implied to be without food but not explicitly excluding water (Matthew 4:1-2). Preparation for ministry, spiritual warfare, or testing.

Corporate Fast: A group or community fasting together for a shared purpose. The people of Nineveh, including animals, fasted as a group to repent and seek God’s mercy (Jonah 3:5-10).  Collective repentance, seeking divine favor, or addressing communal issues.

Regular Fast: Fasting on designated days or times as a recurring practice.  Jews fasted on the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16:29-31).  Maintaining spiritual discipline or fulfilling religious obligations.

Supernatural Fast: Extended fasting without food or water beyond normal human limits, sustained by divine enablement.   Moses fasted for 40 days and nights without food or water while receiving the Law (Exodus 34:28). Unique divine encounters or receiving revelation.

Sacrificial Fast: Giving up specific pleasures or comforts beyond food (e.g., entertainment, marital relations). Paul mentions abstaining from marital relations for a time to focus on prayer, implying a form of fasting (1 Corinthians 7:5).  Devoting time to prayer or spiritual focus.

Each type of fast reflects a specific intent, such as repentance, seeking guidance, mourning, healing or drawing closer to God. The Bible emphasizes that fasting should be done with humility and sincerity, not for show..  "And when you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces so that their fasting may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward.  But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting may not be seen by others but by your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you." Matthew 6:16-18

So pick your fast.  Maybe start with small goals, if you have not fasted before.  How about fasting social media, you will be shocked by the results!

And please, please remember to fast and pray!

June 27, 2025

Fasting Part:1

Communism had taken everything.  Dad left mom alone with four small kids when he was sent to the work camps.  The work camps was the "punishment" for those that were awaiting their legal entrance into the US, and out of the Island.  As it was normal at the time, mom didn't work and had to become very creative to feed herself and her kids.  I didn't know what ham, or even a sandwich was but I was obsessed with eating one. 

Once we finally made it to the US, food became an obsession.  We didn't have designer clothes but we ate well.  

Fast forward in time.  I would remind the Lord that as a child I had gone hungry and I loved food too much too fast.  Later I would be diagnosed with gluten intolerance and although not a complete fast I had to change my diet and stop eating many foods I loved.  I was constantly told to pray against it.  I wouldn't.  I felt the Lord allowed this intolerance in my body for my good.  I was finally able to control the food I ate and food didn't control me.

I love how those things that sometimes we only associate with commands or instructions in the Bible have been proven to be for our good!  There is more and more research that shows that fasting is not only a spiritual instruction but in fact good for our bodies, our health: 

Improved Metabolic Health, Weight Management, Cardiovascular Benefits. Fasting may lower blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and triglycerides, reducing heart disease risk, Cellular Repair and Longevity, Fasting triggers autophagy, a process where cells remove damaged components, potentially reducing inflammation and supporting longevity, and Brain health.

In the Bible we see Moses fasting 40 days in preparation for receiving the Ten Commandments; Nehemiah fasted to mourn Jerusalem’s ruined state and to seek God’s favor for his mission to rebuild the city’s walls;  Joel called for fasting to lead Israel in repentance and to avert God’s judgment during a locust plague. The fast was a communal act to seek God’s mercy and restoration.  In Matthew 4:1-2, Mark 1:12-13, and Luke 4:1-2 After His baptism, Jesus was led into the wilderness, where He fasted for 40 days and 40 nights.  Jesus fasted to prepare spiritually for His public ministry and to face temptation by Satan.     Jesus’ 40-day fast is a foundational example to us of spiritual discipline, reliance on God and preparation for God's work.

Fasting is a tangible, disciplined act that humbles the body and focuses the spirit.  It’s associated with powerful outcomes, such as divine intervention or spiritual breakthroughs.  Jesus endorsed fasting, teaching how to do it rightly and implying its necessity in certain situations, "And he said to them, 'This kind cannot be driven out by anything but prayer and fasting.'" Mark 9:29.       

Do you want to deepen your dependence on God and seek His will? Do you need divine intervention or a miracle?  Are you in the midst of warfare?  Are you suffering from health issues?  Don't delay FAST AND PRAY!

June 23, 2025

Not all things are helpful

As long as I have been a believer I have been confronted by people that want me to ignore Paul's teachings and start following some old Testament law or other. I have had to bring these issues to the Lord in prayer, asking for Holy Spirit wisdom when reading the scriptures.

When doing my research, one of my rules is, did God say it before the Mosaic laws were established, is it reinforced in the New Testament, under the new covenant?

While I am now convinced that we are not under the law, Jesus fulfilled the Law (this Thought, upcoming) I often think of the words of Paul, "All things are lawful for me,’ but not all things are helpful. ‘All things are lawful for me,’ but I will not be dominated by anything.” I Corinthians 6:12. In other words, although we can, should we?

Let's analyze a few of these laws:

Leviticus 19:28 states, “You shall not make any cuts on your body for the dead or tattoo yourselves: I am the Lord.” 

Tattoos are a 2025 cultural staple (32% of Americans inked, Pew 2023). Remember, we are not under the Law. Yes I believe tattoos are lawful, but are they healthy?

A March 2025 study found tattooed individuals have higher rates of skin and lymphoma cancers due to ink accumulating in lymph nodes, with carcinogenic chemicals. A 2024 Swedish study reported a 21% increased lymphoma risk, with larger tattoos amplifying danger. A December 2024 study noted tattoo inks cause skin inflammations, infections, allergic reactions, and blood-borne diseases, with 35% of U.S. inks contaminated with bacteria. The National Institutes of Health. linked tattoo ink to lung, liver, kidney, and nerve damage, raising long-term concerns. Tattoos also lower fertility in young men.

Let's look at Dietary Laws on Pork (Leviticus 11:7–8, Deuteronomy 14:8) – Pork Is Dangerous. Leviticus 11:7–8 declares pigs “unclean,” prohibiting pork consumption to set Israel apart. Pork is a dietary staple globally, but there are health concerns like toxins, and parasites. A pigs’ omnivorous diet can lead to toxins and parasites (e.g., Trichinella spiralis) in their muscles, transferable to humans if undercooked. A 2023 study (Journal of Food Protection, confirmed risks of trichinosis and tapeworms in pork, though modern cooking reduces incidence.  2024–2025 studies link pork to higher risks of foodborne illnesses (e.g., salmonella) compared to other meats, supporting biblical caution. 

This one totally amazes me; Laws on Mixed Fabrics (Leviticus 19:19, Deuteronomy 22:11)  Prohibits wearing mixed fibers (e.g., wool and linen) to symbolize Israel’s purity.   2024 studies link synthetic fibers (e.g., polyester, mixes) to microplastic absorption, skin irritation, and hormonal disruption. Natural fibers like wool or linen, as in Leviticus, are less harmful.

The Lord presented these and many others as ceremonial laws, separating the chosen people from the pagan culture of the day.  But, as our all knowing father He knew that thousands of years later we would still be worshipping different gods and worshipping at the altar of culture!

So let's not dismiss the Mosaic laws too quickly. Let's meditate on these laws while analyzing our personal lives and health journeys. Pray for wisdom, as to how to honor the Lord.. “Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.” I Corinthians 6:19-20.

June 24, 2025

Is the World at War

Before I give you my Thought of the Day, I want to repeat what I have said before, I stand with Israel and their right to defend themselves; they are God's chosen people.  The only City that we are called to pray for is Jerusalem.  “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: ‘May they prosper who love you.’”  Psalm 22-6.

Even in the Book of Revelation, we are told Jesus is in heaven as the Lion of Judah the Root of David, “But one of the elders said to me, ‘Do not weep. Behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has prevailed to open the scroll and to loose its seven seals.’” Revelation 5:5.  Even as He prepares for His return, He returns with His Jewish identity. This should be food for thought for all those ignoring scripture to attack Israel, and even Christians that are saying God loves all people.. true.. nothing special about the Jews.. false.

Right now, all the news channels are reporting that Iran is attacking US embassies in Qatar and Iraq.  Everyone is in fear that the war has started, I am not!  I believe this war will not escalate much further. Let's remember a few things, nothing happens without God allowing it and God loves the Persian People!  A beautiful, free nation was taken over by radicals and their people have been abused and tortured since February 1979.  This country has been closed to the Gospel Iran, known in the Bible as Persia, is mentioned many times,and is in fact  used by God in Israel's history:

Cyrus the Great’s decree allowing the Jews to return from Babylonian exile (Ezra 1:1–4, 2 Chronicles 36:22–23).

The setting of the Book of Esther, where King Ahasuerus (likely Xerxes I) rules (Esther 1:1).

Prophecies in Daniel (e.g., Daniel 5:28, 6:8) and Ezekiel (e.g., Ezekiel 38:5), where Persia is mentioned in historical or eschatological contexts.

The most quoted End-time verses today are Ezekiel 38 and 39, Persia along with many others nations attack Israel and God protects them and destroys the attacking forces.

But, today what I feel happening in the world is an awakening, a revival.  

“And it shall come to pass afterward that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh; Your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, Your old men shall dream dreams, Your young men shall see visions. And also on My menservants and on My maidservants I will pour out My Spirit in those days.”  Joel 2:28-29.

Despite the persecution, including death, today, estimates suggest 1 million or more converts, with evangelical growth at 19.6% annually (compared to a global 2.6% rate).

Is it possible that God is opening the doors to Iran for the sake of the Gospel for His Glory?  Please pray, pray for the Iranian People that the God of heaven will remove this tyrannical government and the doors to Iran will open to missioneries, to Bibles, to The Gospel.. and many Iranians will be saved for Jesus.

Please pray.

June 23, 2025

The beach

I LOVE the beach.  The beach is my happy place.  At the beach I feel a sense of freedom, I don't feel anywhere else. It is so easy to reflect and meditate while in the water staring at the horizon. The ocean is, to me, a symbol of God's power and strength.

I was saddened when I read that in the book of Revelation,  "Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea."

"Sea" and "ocean" are often used interchangeably in English translations of the Bible.  

Let it not be so... 

In biblical and ancient thought, the sea or ocean often symbolized chaos and disorder; the sea was seen as a place of danger, unpredictability, and rebellion against God (e.g., the chaotic waters) in Genesis 1:2, The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters."

or the sea as a source of evil in Daniel's vision 7:3 "And four great beasts came up out of the sea, different from one another."

Seas/oceans divided peoples and lands, representing barriers or hostility.

Unlike the stable land, the sea was untamed and threatening.

Is it possible that in Revelation 21:1, the absence of the sea/ocean  symbolizes the removal of chaos, evil, and disorder in the new creation, where God’s order and peace reign fully. The end of separation, as all nations and peoples are united in God’s presence , Revelation 21:24-26. A creation free from the threats or instability the sea represented. 

Maybe the verse is not about the literal absence of all large bodies of water but rather the omission of what the sea represents—chaos, division, and danger.

A perfected creation free from the negative associations of the sea. 

........

Beneath the heavens, wide and blue,

Its waves, a chorus, rise and fall,

Proclaiming Christ, the Lord of all.

Each crest that crashes, bold and free,

Speaks of His strength, His majesty.

The deep, where shadows softly dwell,

Holds secrets only God can tell.

He spoke, and seas were set in place,

The tides obey His sovereign hand,

When storms arise and tempests roar,

His voice commands, “Be still, no more.”

The waters calm, the winds abide,

In Jesus’ peace, our souls reside.

O ocean vast, your boundless song,

Lifts praise to God, who we adore.

In every wave, His love is shown,

Our Savior reigns, forever more.

I can't  wait!  Praise God!

June 22, 2025

Sowing and Reaping

The law of sowing and reaping is a principle, in biblical and philosophical teachings, stating that actions, what you "sow" produce corresponding outcomes what you "reap". It emphasizes cause and effect: positive actions yield positive results, while negative actions lead to negative consequences. 

This Bible verse is mostly preached applying it to finances.  "Give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you."  Luke 6:38

This verse emphasizes generosity, suggesting that giving freely leads to abundant blessings in return, measured in proportion to what you give. 

Another related passage is 2 Corinthians 9:6 "whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully."

Originating from agricultural imagery—where planting good seeds leads to a bountiful harvest.  "A man reaps what he sows".  It applies to all personal behavior, relationships, and even societal outcomes, suggesting that consistent, intentional efforts shape future results.

Let's meditate on our lives today!  What are we sowing?

Are we being intentional in our relationship with Christ, studying the Word, worshipping, spending time with Him?  “Abide in me, and I in you… whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit.” This connection strengthens faith and aligns your heart with God’s will. John 15:4-5.  The opposite is true.

Hard work brings success  "Those who work their land will have abundant food" Proverbs 12:11",

while laziness leads to poverty. Proverbs 10:4.

Are you sowing kindness, compassion and generosity?  Growing up I believed that my parents were too kind, too compassionate and too generous, even to people that didn't deserve it.  Throughout my life I saw them taken advantage of over and over.  And then, the time came when they were old and in need.  The need wasn't financial but they needed so much.  As a family we were supported and helped by "strangers".  People would come to pray for them, others brought food.  Extended family was there for them in their last days.. they were reaping a life of giving!

 "Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap."  Galatians 6:7

Sow love, friendship, kindness, generosity and at harvest time you will have a bumper crop, an abundant harvest!

June 19, 2025

Prophecy Part 2

In the Book of Amos the Lord tells us, "Surely the Sovereign Lord does nothing without revealing his plan to his servants the prophets."  He wants to warn us and prepare us of the things to come.

A guesstimate suggests there can be as many as 50,000 charismatic people on social media that call themselves prophets:  there will be a financial collapse this year, the tidal wave that will destroy the East Coast of America is coming soon, Yellowstone will erupt soon, the Madrid Fault line is about to erupt and on and on.  That's a lot of talking for the Lord.  I do believe that a warning can prepare us, make us more aware of situations, and also encourage us to keep looking up to Jesus.

I don't believe we should be watching prophecy non-stop.  Some of these prophecies may not be from the Lord.  Be careful.  Paul urges believers not to despise prophecies but to test them, holding fast to what is good and rejecting what is false.  Thessalonians 5:20-21

I have seen people hurt by these personal words - a woman that prepared for a baby that never came - a young woman that was failing college even though the prophet told her she would have a 4.0 grade average.  Such hurt and disappointment!   

How do we test these prophecies?

1.  Does it align with God’s Word (Deuteronomy 13:1-5): A prophet’s message must align with God’s revealed truth. If a prophecy contradicts Scripture or promotes idolatry, it is false, even if it is accompanied by signs or wonders

2. Fruit of the Prophet’s Life (Matthew 7:15-20): Jesus teaches that false prophets are known by their “fruit”—their character and actions. A true prophet exhibits godliness, humility, and obedience to God, while false prophets often display deceit, greed, or immorality.

3. Confession of Jesus Christ (1 John 4:1-3): In the New Testament, believers are urged to test spirits. A true prophet acknowledges Jesus as the Christ. Any spirit or prophecy denying Jesus’ divinity or humanity is not from God.

4.  Edification of the Church (1 Corinthians 14:3-4): Prophecies in the New Testament should build up, encourage, and comfort the church, aligning with the Holy Spirit’s work.

5.  Discernment by the Spirit (1 Thessalonians 5:19-21): Believers are to test all prophecies. This involves prayer, discernment, and guidance from the Holy Spirit, often in community with other believers.

Paul also says, "For we know in part and we prophesy in part". 1 Corinthians 13-9.  Prophets receive and convey divine revelation, but they do not have the full picture of God’s plans. Their messages are partial, reflecting only what God chooses to reveal at a given time.  Only God knows the future and how it will unfold.  Modern prophecies should be seen as partial, subject to discernment, and never on par with Scripture. 

Paul views prophecy as a valuable spiritual gift that communicates God’s message to edify, encourage, and comfort the church. It should be pursued eagerly, exercised in love, and practiced in an orderly manner, with all prophecies subject to testing. While prophets played a foundational role in the early church, the gift of prophecy remains relevant for building up believers, its ultimate cessation awaits the fulfillment of God’s plan.  Till then..

June 18, 2025

Music Part 2

My grandsons asked me a few weeks ago why I don't listen to secular music.

I explained to them that I personally don't like secular music because it reminds me of my BC.  Music has been scientifically proven to be a potent memory trigger, backed by neuroscience and behavioral studies. It’s especially effective for emotional or autobiographical memories, even in cases of cognitive decline. If you’ve ever heard a song and suddenly “saw” a moment from your past, that’s your brain’s wiring at work.  There really isn't much of my BC life that I enjoy remembering.  A feeling of sadness always envelops me.  So my preference is to stick to music that celebrates and worships my Lord and Savior.

That said, I don't judge Christians that enjoy good, clean secular music.  Secular music can offer an opportunity for self expression and as it triggers dopamine "the feel good" hormone, gives you a sense of enjoyment.

But, some secular music can be connected to many of our bad cultural trends.  Let's remember that Lucifer was the worship leader in heaven, he knows a lot about music and it's impact on humanity.

Some secular music glorifies destructive themes—violence, substance abuse, or hyper-sexuality. For instance, certain rap tracks can normalize drug culture or aggression, especially for younger listeners. 

“They have lyre and harp, tambourine and flute and wine at their feasts, but they do not regard the deeds of the Lord, or see the work of his hands.”  Isaiah 5:13

Pop and hip-hop often flaunt wealth, luxury, and image.  This can fuel consumerism and shallow aspirations, especially in impressionable audiences. The “get rich or die tryin’” vibe can overshadow deeper values.    “I also gathered for myself silver and gold and the treasure of kings and provinces. I got singers, both men and women, and many concubines, the delight of the sons of man.”  Ecclesiastes 2:8

Some secular music, especially in certain sad-pop, can amplify feelings of isolation or despair.   “The old men have left the city gate, the young men their music. The joy of our hearts has ceased; our dancing has been turned to mourning.”  Lamentations 5:14-16.

There are even "conspiracy" theories that suggest that music was changed from tuning shift 432 Hz to 440 Hz to manipulate people’s brains, making them anxious or aggressive, as a way to control the population.  There are no studies to suggest this is true.  But, there are several sleep studies that show that 

432 Hz does in fact have a calming effect.

A 2019 study’s finding of increased alpha activity suggests 432 Hz promotes a relaxed brain state, easing you into sleep.  Anecdotal sources claim 432 Hz aligns with “nature’s frequency” that's why it promotes relaxation causing one to fall asleep faster.  

So next time you start listening to music, consider its impact on your emotional and overall health.  And, for a good night of sleep, turn on your favorite 432 Hz song.

June 17, 2025

Music Part 1

The first mention of music in the Bible is in Genesis 4:21, where Jubal is described as "the father of all those who play the lyre and pipe.  The context suggests music was a significant early human achievement. 

The Word tells us music is more than entertainment, it has many purposes,  reflecting both spiritual and cultural roles.  Music has the power to move us emotionally and spiritually. 

Music is frequently used to glorify God. For example, in Exodus 15:1-21, Moses and the Israelites sing a song of praise after crossing the Red Sea, celebrating God’s deliverance. The Psalms, often accompanied by instruments, are filled with calls to worship through song.

Music conveys joy, sorrow, or gratitude. In 1 Samuel 16:23, David plays the lyre to soothe King Saul’s troubled spirit, showing music’s therapeutic role. 

 Music accompanies feasts, weddings, and victories. In Judges 11:34, tambourines and dancing mark Jephthah’s return. 

Music is linked to prophetic activity. In 1 Chronicles 25:1-3, Levites use music to prophesy, and in 2 Kings 3:15, Elisha requests a musician to aid his prophetic vision.

Songs teach history and God’s laws. Deuteronomy 31:19-22 describes a song Moses wrote to remind Israel of God’s covenant.   

How often do you contemplate and think about the music you are listening to?  Is it a tool to worship a majestic, holy Creator, or your Lord and Savior?  Is it your sword you use in times of struggle?  Whatever the reason, enjoy!  Music is a gift given to us by a caring and loving father.

 Luke 19:40, Jesus says, “I tell you, if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out.”  The Pharisees ask Jesus to rebuke His disciples for praising Him during His triumphal entry into Jerusalem. If we don't worship Him, creation itself, even the stones, will proclaim His glory.  Hallelujah!

June 10, 2025

Psalm 23

Psalm 23 

A Psalm of David. 

The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.

He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. 

He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. 

You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.

 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever.

This Psalm's comforting imagery of guidance and protection resonates universally, appearing in funerals, literature, and media, even among secular circles seeking solace.

Let's meditate today on this beautiful Psalm (poem).

“The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.”  The Holy Spirit reveals God as a personal shepherd, guiding us with intimate care. This is a promise of provision through faith, not just material needs but spiritual fullness. God’s presence, accessed through prayer and worship, ensures we lack nothing essential. This verse invites us to trust God’s sufficiency, expecting supernatural supply.  

“He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters.”   God’s Spirit brings rest and peace, even in chaos. Lets view green pastures as places of spiritual renewal through worship and God’s Word. Still waters symbolize the Holy Spirit’s calming presence, guiding us to drink deeply of God’s love. This verse calls us to surrender to divine rest, trusting God’s direction, abiding in God’s peace.

“He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.”   The Holy Spirit restores our soul through healing and revival.  Let's surrender to God’s power to renew our emotions and our spirit, through prayer or even miracles. Paths of righteousness reflect God’s guidance toward holiness, empowered by the Spirit, not our human effort. This honors God’s glory, urging believers to walk in obedience, confident in divine direction for His name’s sake.

“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”  The Spirit’s presence banishes fear in life’s darkest trials. The rod and staff are God’s discipline and guidance, actively protecting us. This verse inspires bold faith, with God’s nearness felt through spiritual gifts like prophecy or peace. Trust in God’s companionship, let's declare victory over evil, knowing the Spirit comforts and empowers us.

“You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.”  God’s Spirit anoints us with power, even amid opposition. The table, divine provision and the oil of the Holy Spirit’s empowerment for ministry. The overflowing cup signifies abundant life, a hallmark of our faith. This is God’s promise to bless boldly, defying enemies, urging us to embrace our anointed calling with confidence.

“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever.”  The Spirit guarantees God’s goodness and mercy, pursuing us daily.  This is a promise of continual revival and intimacy with God, culminating in eternal worship. This verse fuels expectant faith for God’s blessings now and forever.  Dwelling in God’s presence through a lifestyle of praise, assures us of an eternal home with the Lord.

Amen!

June 9, 2025

Israel

God calls Israel the apple of His eye in Zechariah 2:8  "For thus says the Lord of hosts: ... he who touches you touches the apple of his eye." This verse conveys God's deep love and protective care for Israel, likening them to the pupil of His eye, a sensitive and cherished part. And Deuteronomy 32:10, which describes God caring for Israel "as the apple of his eye" in the wilderness, emphasizing His tender watchfulness.

I can't imagine God loving Israel so much and then forgetting about them later, as those that fall for Replacement theology believe. This idea that God replaced Israel with the church, in my view, is calling God a liar.

Not believing in God's plan for Israel has brought much confusion especially in the area of Bible prophecy.  Israel is the end-times time clock.  

So many end times prophecies could not be fulfilled until Israel came back to the land given to them by God:  Ezekiel 36:24 "For I will take you from among the heathen, and gather you out of all countries, and will bring you into your own land." Ezekiel prophesies Israel’s restoration, both physically to the land and spiritually through a renewed covenant (v. 26-28). This is part of a vision of national revival after exile. Isaiah 11:11-12 

"And it shall come to pass in that day, that the Lord shall set his hand again the second time to recover the remnant of his people, which shall be left, from Assyria, and from Egypt, and from Pathros, and from Cush, and from Elam, and from Shinar, and from Hamath, and from the islands of the sea. And he shall set up an ensign for the nations, and shall assemble the outcasts of Israel..."

"Who hath heard such a thing? Who has seen such things? Shall the earth be made to bring forth in one day? or shall a nation be born at once? for as soon as Zion travailed, she brought forth her children" Isaiah 66:8

Although it's hard to pinpoint an exact number, there are hundreds and as much as 1000 Bible prophecies about the Nation of Israel.  

June 8, 2025

What is Pentecost?

Pentecost is a holiday commemorating the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles and other followers of Jesus Christ, as described in the New Testament (Acts 2:1-31). It is celebrated 50 days after Easter Sunday, "fiftieth day" (from the Greek Pentēkostē).

The event marks the birth of the Christian Church, as the Holy Spirit empowered the Apostles to spread Jesus’ teachings,   "And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting.

And divided tongues as fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them.

 And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance."

Pentecost also has roots in the Jewish festival of Shavuot, a harvest festival and commemoration of the giving of the Torah.  As early followers of Jesus were Jewish,  they were likely observing Shavuot when the Holy Spirit descended.   

As everyone was astonished, and some even mocked, Peter spoke up, “Men of Judea and all who dwell in Jerusalem, let this be known to you, and give ear to my words.  For these people are not drunk, as you suppose, since it is only the third hour of the day.  But this is what was uttered through the prophet Joel:  “‘And in the last days it shall be, God declares,  that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh,  and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,  and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams; even on my male servants and female servants. in those days I will pour out my Spirit, and they shall prophesy.

 And I will show wonders in the heavens above and signs on the earth below, blood, and fire, and vapor of smoke; the sun shall be turned to darkness and the moon to blood, before the day of the Lord comes, the great and magnificent day.

And it shall come to pass that everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

Pentecost is a reminder and a symbol of the Holy Spirit’s role in guiding and unifying believers.  Is it possible that we could see another outpouring as Joel prophesied, and Peter reminded the people 2000 years ago?  Can we pray for that time when once again we will see the Holy Spirit poured out onto the world for all to see, that we can be united in one purpose; glorying our Heavenly Father!? 

June 6, 2025

Do not be Deceived - Part 2

This is a big topic lately, as everyone is talking about AI and its ability to create images and videos that are people-like but are just AI creations.  Estimates suggest that 41% of videos online are AI generated. "And the Lord said, 'Behold, they are one people, and they have all one language, and this is only the beginning of what they will do. And nothing that they propose to do will now be impossible for them.'" Genesis 11:6.

But, let's not blame AI for all the doubt, craziness and fake news.  I was watching a video and was so annoyed I couldn't get to the end.  Basically, the young man's demeanor is gentle and his manner is quite believable but he is talking about a new discovery that proves the true biblical setting was America and not the Middle East.  Before I turned him off I looked at his comments and he had hundreds of people celebrating this new piece of information.  Before writing about it I tried to find information but didn't find a single word on his claim.  This young man also believes that most of the politicians from the last administration have been arrested, court martialed at Guantanamo Bay and when we see them on televisions they are doppelgangers or doubles.

In some cases the fake news is spread by people and agencies you want to believe.  The covid vaccine was and is a great example.  From the very beginning I told my husband I would not take the shot.  I think it was pure wisdom that told me that these shots were not tested, therefore I didn't want to be a guinea pig.  Some friends told me the Holy Spirit told them to take it. Some family members trusted the doctors.  I stood my ground.

How about all the health misinformation?  I have always known protein is good for us and good salt is a must for our bodies.  Fasting is not only a spiritual necessity, but health for our immune system.  Truly, I always considered these conclusions to be pure wisdom, from the Bible.  If the Bible says it.  I believe it, even if the rest of the world is saying the opposite. "If you will diligently listen to the voice of the Lord your God, and do that which is right in his eyes, and give ear to his commandments and keep all his statutes, I will put none of the diseases on you that I put on the Egyptians, for I am the Lord, your healer." Exodus 15:26

Jesus warned us to not be deceived. How do we sort through all the rubbish, misinformation, and fake news?  As I said before, know the source.  Does it align with the Word?  But, may I also suggest just saying, SO?!  Does it matter?  Will it help me?  Will it encourage me?  If not, TURN IT OFF!   "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things." Philippians 4:8

June 5, 2025

Prophecy

Our site is full videos of preachers and interviews dealing with the topic of Bible prophecy.   It is said that 33 percent of the Bible is prophecy. Prophecy is a message from a divine source, often predicting future events.

From the first prophecy in Genesis 3:15, which states: "And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel."  to the last book, Revelation, a foretelling of future events, God gives us pictures of what is to come.

Prophecy communicates God’s plans, warnings, and promises, helping believers align with His purposes.  Prophecy is meant to edify, encourage, and strengthen believers, fostering unity and spiritual growth.

Fulfilled prophecies demonstrate God’s sovereignty and truth, reinforcing trust in Him.  Isaiah 46:10:

"I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times, what is still to come. I say, ‘My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please.’" Isaiah 46:10

Jesus' first coming fulfilled over 300 Old Testament prophecies e.g.

Born of a virgin (Isaiah 7:14, fulfilled in Matthew 1:22–23).  Crucifixion details (Psalm 22, fulfilled in John 19).Resurrection (Psalm 16:10, fulfilled in Acts 2:31). 

Some theologians say Jesus will fulfill over 200 Old Testament and New Testament prophecies, at His Second coming.

 As we walk through these turbulent and chaotic days we need to be encouraged and not discouraged by BIble Prophecy.  As we see the End Times unfolding let's be reminded of Jesus' words, "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. John 16:33. 

The problem is that many add their own thoughts and ideas to God's prophecies.  Doing so has led us to some confusion and even prophecy exhaustion.   Within Christian circles the worst is the desire and attempt to guess the day of the Rapture and the return of Jesus' second coming.  So many of us have fallen in that trap.  Personally, I didn't fall for the warnings of Y2K, or many others but I was sure we would be raptured in 2012!  I am not even sure how I came to that conclusion.  I can tell you my life was influenced by this belief, some were good, some bad.  That was the year I sent an email to everyone I knew warning them to choose heaven or hell, my immediate expectation gave me courage.  

In Mark 13:32–33 Jesus warns us "But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. Be on guard! Be alert! You do not know when that time will come." 

So, brothers and sisters run away from anyone that wants to tell you he/she figured out the day Jesus is snatching His children out of this world ), or the date of His second coming.  That said, Jesus also warns us and gives us signs of the season of His return. In Matthew 24:32–33, Jesus uses the parable of the fig tree to illustrate that believers can recognize the season "Now learn this lesson from the fig tree: As soon as its twigs get tender and its leaves come out, you know that summer is near. Even so, when you see all these things, you know that it is near, right at the door."   This suggests that while the precise day and hour are unknown, the signs will be evident enough for believers to know the general time is approaching.  So, let's not fall into a date setting trap but let's not be one of the deniers or mockers. “Above all, you must understand that in the last days scoffers will come, scoffing and following their own evil desires. They will say, ‘Where is this “coming” he promised? Ever since our ancestors died, everything goes on as it has since the beginning of creation.’” 2 Peter 3:3-4.

Let's remember the words of Jesus after His warning of the Signs of the End Times Luke 21:28 “When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.”   Maranatha!

June 1, 2025

God's creativity

One early morning I was walking with my dog along the back of my community when I spotted a coyote, it was on the path directly in front of me.  I was new in the country and had been warned of the dangerous animals living in the area.  Instantly, I was reminded of a sermon I heard the day before: And God blessed them. And God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth and subdue it, and have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over l every living thing that moves on the earth.” Genesis 1:28

My faith was stirred and I prayed, "Jesus

Protect us".  And spoke to the Coyote.  "In the name of Jesus you will not hurt us"  I continued to walk approximately half a mile back to my house, my dog walking alongside me.  The coyote would walk ahead and then stop and wait for us.  As we got closer it would again walk ahead and then sit and wait for us.  This continued until I reached my house and the coyote ran off, and I took a deep breath.  

I have never again been afraid of any animal.  In fact, my love for animals has grown.  

“And God said, ‘Let the waters swarm with swarms of living creatures, and let birds fly above the earth across the expanse of the heavens.’ So God created the great sea creatures and every living creature that moves, with which the waters swarm, according to their kinds, and every winged bird according to its kind.” Genesis 1;20-23

“And God said, ‘Let the earth bring forth living creatures according to their kinds—livestock and creeping things and beasts of the earth according to their kinds.’ And it was so.” Genesis 1:24-25

God created animals:

1. To Reflect His Glory and Creativity: Genesis 1 describes God’s creation as “good” (Genesis 1:21, 25). Animals, from sea creatures to birds to land beasts, showcase God’s power, diversity, and artistry. Psalm 104:24-25 praises God’s wisdom in creating countless creatures, suggesting they exist to display His greatness.

2. For Human Stewardship and Benefit: In Genesis 1:28, God gives humans dominion over animals, tasking them to “subdue” the earth and rule over “every living thing.”  Genesis 2:19-20 shows Adam naming the animals, indicating a relationship of authority and responsibility.

3. To Sustain the Earth’s Ecosystem: Genesis 1:20-25 describes animals filling specific environments—sea, sky, and land—they play roles in maintaining earth's eco-system.

4. For God’s Pleasure and Worship: Revelation 4:11 states all things were created for God’s pleasure. Psalm 148:7-10 calls on creatures, from sea monsters to cattle, to praise God, implying animals have a role in glorifying Him.

While Genesis 1:28 emphasizes human dominion, it also implies a responsibility to care for animals, as they are part of God’s “very good” creation (Genesis 1:31). Proverbs 12:10 reinforces this, stating, “Whoever is righteous has regard for the life of his beast.” 

Thus, animals exist for God’s glory, human stewardship, ecological balance, and divine pleasure, with humans tasked to manage them wisely.

May 31, 2025

Fountain of Faith

I believe that every word in the Bible is important!

 "For verily I say unto you, till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no way pass from the law, till all be fulfilled." Matthew 5:18

Jot refers to the smallest letter in the Hebrew alphabet. Tittle refers to a tiny stroke or mark that distinguishes certain letters. This verse underscores that every detail of God's Word is significant and enduring.

"All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:"  Timothy 3:16

However, I believe the fountain of life is:

Matthew 6:33:

"But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you."

 Matthew 6:33 is part of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, within a passage addressing anxiety about material needs (Matthew 6:25–34). Jesus urges His disciples not to worry about food, clothing, or other necessities, as God, who cares for the birds and flowers, will provide for His people. Verse 33 redirects the focus from earthly concerns to spiritual priorities.

Prioritizing the Kingdom of God:

The command to "seek first the kingdom of God" emphasizes placing God’s rule, will, and purposes above all else. The "kingdom of God" refers to God’s sovereign reign, both in the present (through submission to His authority) and in the future (His ultimate reign). Seeking it "first" implies a deliberate, ongoing choice to align one’s life with God’s priorities, making Him the center of one’s affections, decisions, and actions.  We are challenged to evaluate our priorities. Are career, wealth, or personal ambitions taking precedence over devotion to God? Seeking the kingdom first means prioritizing prayer, studying Scripture, serving others, and sharing the gospel.

Seeking His Righteousness:

"and his righteousness" refers to pursuing a life of holiness and obedience to God’s standards, as well as trusting in the righteousness that comes through faith (fulfilled in Christ). It involves both personal integrity and dependence on God’s grace.

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus redefines righteousness, contrasting it with the superficial piety of the Pharisees.  True righteousness flows from a heart transformed by the Holy Spirit, not mere rule-keeping.

This calls for practical steps like repentance, forgiveness, and living out the ethical teachings of Jesus.

The promise of God ’s Provision:

The phrase "all these things shall be added unto you" assures believers that God will provide their material needs (food, clothing, etc.) when they prioritize His kingdom. 

While this is not a promise of wealth or luxury it promises sufficiency.  God knows and meets the needs of those who trust Him.  This echoes Old Testament promises like Deuteronomy 28:1–14, where obedience to God brings provision, and Psalm 37:25, where the righteous are not forsaken.

This verse invites us to trust in God’s faithfulness, freeing us believers from the paralyzing grip of worry. It’s a reminder to live with an eternal perspective, knowing God’s care is certain.

What are you in need of today?

Meditate on Matthew 6:33, make the decision to focus on Him and His Kingdom and He will supply!

May 29, 2025

Do not be deceived

I love christian conversion testimonies.  I love that there is always such joy.  Well, when I became a believer I felt many amazing things like love and peace, but I definitely didn't feel joy.  For the first year of following Jesus, I cried constantly.  I couldn't believe that I had been so deceived for so many years.  I was mourning that I was so wrong about so many things.  Why didn't anyone warn me?!

Yesterday on Instagram I was watching videos and came across several "preachers" explaining how in truth" we are not sinners, God created us perfectly. I didn't recognize the preachers but they sounded legit, there are so many false preachers, nothing to question here!?  Well, it turns out these are AI images and "sermons".  Scary. I am not shocked but I am disturbed by this.  How many people will fall for this blasphemy?

When the disciples asked Jesus about the end days His first warning, "Take heed that no one deceives you.'"  Matthew 24:4.  This was the first warning in a long list of signs.  As we look at our culture today, we have never been as susceptible to being deceived as we are today.  We are bombarded with fake news in every area of our lives.  Approximately 5.4 billion people are on social media,  many have their own opinions that they present as the truth.  

Jesus gives us the same warning in Luke 21:7-8

"So they asked Him, saying, 'Teacher, but when will these things be? And what sign will there be when these things are about to take place?' And He said: 'Take heed that you will not be deceived. For many will come in My name, saying, "I am He," and, "The time has drawn near." Therefore do not go after them.'”   The warning in Luke 21:8 is primarily about false messiahs claiming to be the Christ or announcing the end, but it fits into a broader call for discernment in the end times. Jesus urges us to stay anchored in truth, avoid being swayed by deceivers.  

How do we stay on the narrow path to avoid being deceived? 

1.  Read the Word and walk in the Word.  2. Before you believe anything, find the source.  You must trust the source if you are to believe their claims. 

3.  Find reputable preachers that you trust to help you learn and meditate when wrestling with the challenging teachings of scripture. 

Don't allow yourself to be led astray, follow Jesus.  You have been warned.

“My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.”  John 10:28

May 28, 2025

Evangelism

I have a friend that says that preaching Jesus is like standing in front of Hell directing people away .. 

Our primary responsibility as believers is to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ but how many of us find that evangelism does not come naturally, it's hard to do.

While I admire Christians that can walk up to a stranger and ask them if they know Jesus, and then proceed to give them The Romans Road to Salvation:

Romans 3:23 – "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God."  

Romans 6:23 – "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." 

Romans 5:8 – "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Romans 10:9 – "If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved." 

Romans 10:13 – "For, ‘Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.’"   

I am not one of these people!  

So, how do I obey this crucial command?

Some insights:

Pray for a love for humanity, as Jesus is the only way to salvation.  Consider the consequences.  

Pray every morning that the Lord will send you the person that needs to hear about Jesus that day.

Be present when you are interacting with others.  Paul says, “I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some.” 1 Corinthians 9:22

 Maybe the conversation can start with something as easy as a smile.  I love to compliment the person (this is easier to do if you are a woman), "you have a beautiful smile, what beautiful hair, love your dress, etc."  In this fast moving world nothing breaks the ice better than a compliment.  

What does that person need?  Is this person homeless and needs a meal or a woman that needs help replacing a tire.  Be open to the possibilities.

“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”  Matthew 5:16

When you finally have an opening, 

Colossians 4:6 advises letting your conversation be “full of grace, seasoned with salt.”

Share your personal story of how Jesus changed your life.  Personal testimonies are powerful 

“They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death.” Revelation 12:11.

If they’re open, invite them to read a Gospel (like John) with you or attend a church event.

Even if your engagement with this person is short, ponder that every word about Jesus is a seed for their salvation.  And even imagine meeting all these people in eternity some day!  Hallelujah!

May 27, 2025

Be Kind

Do you know how many verses there are about kindness, being kind, in the Bible?  Many!  One of my favorites is 

Galatians 5:22-23: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control."

Somehow, there are moments in life when I forget them all!  There was a day when I was in the shower, talking to the Lord, wait, it was more like complaining, when I clearly heard the answer to my problem.  Be KIND.  I was truly shaken but that phrase.  For the next few days I searched the scriptures and meditated on being kind.  No matter what the situation, be kind.  Speak truth with kindness.  

In my case, kindness wasnt in a cultural sense like giving, being generous; tangible acts.  It was more about a stance.   A feeling of self righteousness which devoided my speech of all grace, humility and yes, kindness.

I learned that even when I am angry if I add the word "honey", "sweetie", a kind word, I allow the Holy Spirit to work and the rest of the sentence is peppered with His love and grace!  

In this world of social media and texting we have to be so careful how we phrase things,  or not.  I know of a divorce and several family dramas caused by disputes on social media.  Somehow, when we are not face to face with the person on the other end it's easier to forget the fruit of the Spirit!  Sometimes Christians are the worst,  especially to each other!  

 A few months ago I was listening to a popular preacher and he was lifting up an entertainer whose name should never be used from a pulpit, that in my view.  Immediately, I wrote a very long, not too nice comment, explaining my perspective.  Before I was able to hit the send button, I heard the Holy Spirit say Stop.  Don't Send!  I stopped and deleted what I had written.  I still believe the preacher was wrong but my comment was not kind and it would benefit no one, to start a war on-line.  So when we comment online we have to ask ourselves, do my comments align with the gifts and fruit of the Holy Spirit? Will Jesus be honored? Will God be lifted up?

Colossians 3:12: "Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience."

May 26, 2025

Remember

God wants us to remember ...

There are verses where he instructs the Isrealites to remember that He took them out of Egypt.  

"You shall remember that you were a slave in the land of Egypt, and the Lord your God brought you out from there with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm. Deuteronomy 5:15.  

God also instructs them to remember their time in the wilderness.

"And you shall remember the whole way that the Lord your God has led you these forty years in the wilderness, that he might humble you, testing you to know what was in your heart, whether you would keep his commandments or not." Deuteronomy 8:2

In the New Testament, we are also reminded to remember.  Luke 22:19

"And he took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to them, saying, 'This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.'"

We are also told to remember the teachings of Jesus, life and resurrection several times throughout the New Testament. "Remember Jesus Christ, risen from the dead, the offspring of David, as preached in my gospel."

Do you have a faith journal?  Do you write down when He answers prayers, when He speaks to you?  Do you remember the little amazing miracles the Lord has done for you?  Remembering what God has done in His Word, and in our lives demonstrate His power, faithfulness, and love. Recalling these acts reinforces trust in God’s character and promises.

If you are struggling today, sit and meditate on what the Lord has done! (Dont meditate on the struggles or your past.)  Remembering will strengthen you and give you the conviction that He is working through your struggles and you will come through it stronger and on your next level of purpose.  

"And we all, with unveiled faces, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit."  2 Corinthians 3:18.

May 22, 2025

South Africa

Were you shocked today when President Trump hosted Cyril Ramaphosa, President of South Africa?  I was.  I heard so much criticism of Trump inviting a man that is accused of genocide and antisemitism into the White House. If you have been following the news you know that Trump accepted white refugees from South Africa recently.  There is a genocide of primarily white farmers, as they try to take their lands.  Accepting these white South Africans secured President Trump even more criticism and accusations of racism.  I gave President Trump the benefit of the doubt so I wondered what he had up his sleeve   I was  amazed when our President confronted the African President with genocide accusations. When they denied the accusations, Trump showed them, and the world, a video presentation.   Once presented with the truth, they couldn't deny they have a problem, then the South African delegation switched their narrative and pointed out that the problem is due to overall crime and not necessarily about racism against whites.

When President Trump was asked how to solve the problem he initially just responded that he didn't know.  Later he went on to accuse the fake media of a cover up.  If the media was reporting the problem, it would solve itself. 

John 3:20-21 - "Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed. But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what they have done has been done in the sight of God."

Let's pray that as this situation is exposed, brought to the light, and there is a drastic and swift change in this divide and hurting nation.

President Trump calls himself the President of Peace.  He and his team are working to secure the end of wars and conflicts around the globe.  I pray for his success.  I believe we have the most amazing time to work overtime for the Glory of God!  Trump's push for the end of terrorism and the protection of Christians worldwide opens the doors for ministry!  Will you take the challenge and GO spread the Gospel onto the world. I Corinthians 1:10

I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought.

I understand this passage is talking about followers of Jesus Christ and not in a broad context."  Only a worldwide Revival and worldwide Transformation to Jesus Christ and His teachings can bring some peace to this world, until Jesus comes in the clouds for His Children.  

"As long as it is day, we must do the work of the one who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work."  Time is short, brothers and sisters, answer the call.

May 21, 2025

Tithing

Do you know that the only time the Lord says, "test me" on this is in the Book of Malachi when he is reprimanding the Isrealites for not tithing?

“Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.”

There is much debate whether tithing, (or giving a 10% of your income) is under Mosaic Law therefore Christians don't need to follow this command.  I disagree.  The first instance of tithing happens when Abraham after rescuing his nephew Lot from a coalition of kings, returns victorious. Melchizedek, described as the king of Salem and "priest of God Most High", meets Abraham with bread and wine and blesses him. Genesis 14:20: “Then Abram gave him a tenth of everything.”  This was approximately 600 years before Moses was born.

As new believers, my husband and I gave up our jobs and careers because we believed we were doing things that went against Jesus' teachings.  As a result, we struggled financially.  We set out to find the path the Lord had for us. My husband started designing websites, but it was the worst possible time.  Back then not every business believed they needed one. Every Sunday at church when the basket went around I would hide, usually in the bathroom.  Finally, it became too much and I set up a meeting with our wonderful Pastor.  I explained the decisions we had made, the financial struggles, our new venture, and how I felt that paying our bills took precedence over the tithe that we had recently learned about.  He pulled out a notebook and started outlining all the verses, and God's promises.  He didn't tell me I had to start tithing (what a smart man, he wasn't going to convince me).  What he did say was, let's make a deal with God.  Let's test Him.  From now on whenever you receive something extra, a contract you didn't plan on, tithe on that.  I agreed.  I went home and explained to my husband everything I had learned and the deal I made.

The next day my husband went to a new customer to sign a $1000.00 contract but the customer wanted additional work, another $500.00.  I was so excited that I made my husband write the $50.00 check the moment he got home.  Would you believe me if I told you the flood gates of blessings opened up!  After that month, we have never ever struggled financially.  We tested Him, obeyed and he kept His Word.  

He taught us not only to tithe but how to be good stewards of our finances!

Many use third world countries as examples as to why God can't or doesn't really use His rule of tithing today.  Well, my argument is that even in third World countries God blesses.  Maybe he doesn't give them a car, maybe it's a bike.  But no matter where in the world you are ...“For every animal of the forest is mine, and the cattle on a thousand hills.” Psalm 50:10, says the Lord.

I want to note that God will never give you more than you can handle.  When we tithe it has to be out of obedience and as a sign of our surrender to His teachings.  Jesus emphasized money and finances in His teachings because how we handle our money reveals our hearts priorities.

If you are struggling with your finances, are you tithing, are you good stewards of everything the Lord has given you?

Trust Him and He will open the windows of heaven and pour out His blessings upon you!

May 20, 2025

A message

A few years back I received a call from a person I didn't know.  He had just been hired by a company I had worked with for years.  He introduced himself and proceeded to tell me, he didn't know what I believed, or if I even believed in Jesus, but he had a message for me.  I sensed he was hesitant, as he could lose his job for doing this.  I simply asked him, "okay, what's the message?"  He responded "That which you think is natural, is not.  You and your family are under spiritual attack".  I then confessed that I was a born-again believer and thanked him for giving me the message.  We became friends, and the Lord has yet to use him to send me another message.

(I have another friend that calls himself a Bapti-Costal. He believes in the gifts of the spirit with a healthy dose of skepticism.  After I spent several years under Calvin's teachings, sometimes I can be the same.)

So many things were going wrong, business sales were down,  I was sick, my husband was sick, there was an atmosphere of anger at home.  I believed the message.  I shifted my focus from nature to prayer, fasting, anointing our home and lots of worship. 

  It took a stranger to call and give me a message from the Lord to open my eyes.  While I love prophets, I really do not like personal "words".

I accept the word given to me, graciously thank the person, and then I put it on the shelf.  I know that I am saved and I have a personal relationship with Jesus. That said, I am a little stubborn and want to hear from the Lord directly.  But in this particular case, He chose a different way.

Sometimes I need to listen to myself and take the advice I give to others.  Let's not put God in a box.  In this scenario God chose to use another person to speak a truth into my life.  Let's not forget that the Lord will use a donkey, Numbers 22:28-31. He can use unexpected ways to speak to us.  

Is God talking to you directly about a situation you are facing?  Has He sent someone you know to give you a message or maybe a stranger has given you a message?  If you are the messenger, be obedient, even at personal risk; give the message. 

"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord." Isaiah 55:8.

"So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up."  Ephesians 4:11-12

May 19, 2025

Miracles

A miracle is a surprising and welcome event that is not by ntural or scientific laws and is therefore considered to be the work of a divine agency.

Have you ever seen the birth of a baby or a pet?  What a miracle! Science can explain the biological process but science alone can’t capture its full meaning, the mystery or complexity beyond empirical measurement.  There is definitely a divine agency at work!

I look outside at all the trees and I see the many colors, sizes as a miracle of God's creation. In fact, I see everything around me as a miracle.

Several years ago I attended a service where we had a visiting Pastor from Cuba and he went on and on about all the miracles occurring there.  He told stories of food arriving at their door when they had none, miraculous healings whereby everyone in a hospital were healed, whole towns receiving Christ.  After the service, we started talking and he told us how we Americans don't see miracles because we have so many resources in nature that we don't need supernatural interventions.

I agree with him.  We are a nation suffering from obesity not hunger.  When we have a headache we run to the medicine cabinet and grab Tylenol.  We feel sick, we run to the doctor.  

But I think it's deeper than that.  I think 

Cessationism, the theological belief that certain miraculous spiritual gifts (e.g., speaking in tongues, prophecy, and healing) ceased after the Apostolic Age, has in fact, affected even those of us that do believe in the gifts of the Holy spirit and that miracles are for today!

These teachings by prominent teachers foster a culture of rationalism that downplays God's active presence.

Are we so focused on science, which by the way just verifies miracles of a divine source?  Are we trusting that doctors know best?  Or are we just afraid that we will ask and not receive?   “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you” (Matthew 7:7). 9

What miracle do you need today?

"Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, “Move from here to there,” and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.’” Matthew 17-20

May 18, 2025

Titus 1:16

(This is an introduction written and presented by a 13 year old before a group of other young people during a recent FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes) meeting.  1 Timothy 4:12 - "Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.")

Today I’m going to be sharing from the book of Titus. In this book Paul writes about how important it is to demonstrate our beliefs.

In Titus 1:16 Paul says, “They claim to know God, but by their actions they deny him.

In other words it’s saying there is great danger to have an outward profession without carrying out what God has called us to do.

One way we can carry out God's will for our lives are daily encounters. A daily encounter is simply just spending time with God daily, they are very important because spending time with God helps us get a deeper understanding of who He is and helps us understand what we are called for.

Here are three daily encounters that can help us carry out what God has for us.

1: Praying

2: Getting into the word

3: Worship

How are we supposed to carry out his will if we don’t know him which helps understand ourselves?

Just as Paul was writing to his spiritual son that we should not just profess but demonstrate our faith in our everyday lives the same word applies to us today.

In the world right now christianity gets a really bad rap because there are many Christians who are hypocrites. We need to show people, specifically the unsaved, who Christ truly is instead of the messed up view of what the world sees, because it is not the clear answer. 

Showing people who Jesus is by our actions can give them the unaltered view of christianity, Which can help them make an educated decision on whether to follow him or not.

May 16, 2025

Stewardship

The Lord has lots to say about stewardship.  In the Bible, stewardship is rooted in the idea that God is the creator and owner of everything. Humans are stewards, or caretakers, tasked with managing His gifts according to His purposes.  Most people associate stewardship with money and finances but it includes all our resources.

Using wealth and possessions generously and responsibly.  For believers it starts with the tithe,  “Will a mere mortal rob God? Yet you rob me.  Malachi 3:8-12

Earn your money honestly, 

"Dishonest money dwindles away, but whoever gathers money little by little makes it grow." Proverbs 13:11

Employing God-given talents and abilities to serve others. "Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms." I Peter 4:10.

Making wise use of time and opportunities to do good. "Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil."  Ephesians 5:15-16

Caring for the environment as God’s handiwork.  "The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it."  Genesis 2:15.

Do you take care of everything the Lord gives you?  Because, "Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much."

Luke 16:10

If you want to prosper in every area of stewardship follow the Biblical instructions of stewardship and you will be blessed "Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us." Ephesians 3:20.

May 14, 2025

Turn it off

If you have spent more than a few moments on our site you know that I am a news "aficionado".  I don't use the word junkie because I am no longer obsessed, I have learned to turn it off.

In Hosea 4:6 the Lord told us 

"My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge; because you have rejected knowledge, I reject you from being a priest to me. And since you have forgotten the law of your God, I also will forget your children".

The Lord in this verse, most theologians agree, is referring to Godly Knowledge; knowing Him and His commandments.  I hold on to a broader understanding of this verse.  The Lord gives us the gift of wisdom and discernment.  In order to walk in wisdom and discernment we must know what is happening in the world around us.

How do we pray if we don't know the issues in the world that need prayer, e.g. praying for our persecuted brothers and sisters?

But as important as what is happening around us is, it's also important to turn it off.  Stop listening to these anchors that regurgitate the same issue over and over.  Turn off anyone or any news that has the potential to stir fear in your spirit. Do we have to spend hours every day listening to how AI is going to kill us, the next asteroid that will destroy civilization,  the collapse of the world economy, who really killed President Kennedy, or someone that can prove that the earth is flat?

The results of an obsession on the "news" can lead us to listen and accept things that aren't true, even some far out conspiracies,  be careful, Proverbs 14:15: "The simple believes everything, but the prudent gives thought to his steps."  It can give us a spirit of fear, 2 Timothy 1:7 "For God does not give us the spirit of fear but love, power and sound mind.  And lastly, our mission as believers is to spread the Good news,  Mark 16:15, which says "Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.'"  We can't do that when we are consumed by the natural things of this world.  

I know people that use the news aligning with Bible Prophecy as a jumping off point to preach Jesus, which is great.  However, I have a warning for some;  bringing bad news into every discussion is not the "Good News" and it will not hasten the return of Jesus Christ.  This approach will not change hearts or thoughts, it will make you unapproachable and even intimidating.  Be approachable to someone even the little children run to.  Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.’"

  "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things." Phillipians 4:8

May 13, 2025

Forgiveness

The concept of forgiveness is central to our Christian faith.

In the Lord's prayer, Jesus teaches us to forgive as we are forgiven.  But Jesus goes even further and warns us in Matthew 6:14-15 "For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you."

I think this is a scary warning as most of us hold onto past pains and resentments like they are valuable trophies to keep on the shelf.   That is especially true in this culture of victimhood.

Did you know, that research shows that unforgiveness causes anger, anxiety, depression, immune disorders, heart problems, high blood pressure, headaches, sleep issues, and more.  Is it just possible that the God that created us understands this connection between unforgiveness and our health?  I guess, that saying that, unforgiveness is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die is true!

Did you know that there are thousands of books on forgiveness.  It truly is a deep subject.

We Christians forgive because it is a command to do so, so that we will receive forgiveness from God.  Jesus is our example, He died for our sins shedding His Blood for our forgiveness.

We surrender our pain to the Holy Spirit who strengthens us.  Understanding, that only with divine intervention can we release some deep hurts.

Christian forgiveness means refusing to seek revenge or nurture anger, as vengeance belongs to God (Romans 12:19. "Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord."). Bitterness poisons the heart, distancing you from God’s peace (Hebrews 12:15 "See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many."

Forgiveness doesn’t mean excusing sin or denying justice; it means entrusting judgment to God (Psalm 37:5-6"Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this: He will make your righteous reward shine like the dawn, your vindication like the noonday sun." Christians are called to forgive while trusting God to address wrongdoing in His way and timing.

But, how do we do this hard work of forgiving?  Well, as I said, there are thousands of books that claim to have the answer.  But, do I dare give you my advise as a non-expert!??  Recalling a painful event can engage the brain’s corticolimbic system which processes emotions and memory. This can evoke emotional distress or a sense of “reliving” the pain.  So contrary to most advise printed in books.  Stop talking about the pain, the person that hurt you, the resentments and divert your conversation to your restoration, your healing, His grace!!!

Stop talking about the trauma and allow the renewing of your mind .. 

"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." Romans 12:2.

May 12, 2025

Fear of God

Growing up I knew that drugs, sexual activities, even wearing makeup before the age of 18 would lead to hot water, or even death.  Maybe I am exaggerating but that's truly how I felt as a child and a teenager.  I had a deep fear of my dad when he was angry, although he was the type of dad that lovingly fed me and rocked me to sleep when I needed comforting.   When I left college I didn't forget his commandments.  I remember one night the first few days of my being in college, where we had a 10pm curfew in the dorm, and a group of us were jumping over a fence at 11pm with the help of several young men.  I remember the feeling.  I was doing something wrong, and I could feel as if my dad was watching me.  Although, everyone else seemed excited at breaking the rules.   I just felt the weight of my dads reprimand,  although he wasn't there watching me.  Never again did I break curfew, or jump over a fence. 

As I think back and meditate on the first 20 years of my life I realize it was this fear and respect of my earthly father that kept me on the narrow path.  Later, as I walked with Jesus, His teachings have kept me on another narrow path. (“Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few" Matthew 7:13-14).

Is that what is wrong with children the last 30 years?  There is no respect for authority.  There is no Fear of God.  As a culture we started by taking prayer and the 10 commandments out of schools.  Now we have to have metal detectors in schools and almost weekly we see some video of a teacher getting beat up by a student.  Movements like defunding the police have taken root. “But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people.” 2 Timothy 3:1-5

Parents, what we need is the fear of God back into the home.  We need the fear of God back in our culture.  

What is the fear of God? “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding." Proverbs 9:10

The "fear of God" is a central biblical concept that combines reverence, awe, and respect for God’s majesty, holiness, and authority, often coupled with a recognition of His justice and power. Jesus says, “Fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.” Matthew 10:28. It’s not primarily about terror or dread but a healthy awareness of God’s judgment, and a worshipful attitude that motivates obedience, humility, and devotion.

No, I wasn't comparing my earthly father to our heavenly father, he was more like the Godfather, lol. What I am suggesting is that as we have lost the concept of fear in our homes, it has spread into the culture leaving us as orphans instead of created beings, made in the image of a loving and wonderful father that through His Son redeems, leads and guides us to live lives full of purpose and eternal hope.

May 11, 2025

Planned parenthood

Did you know that Planned Parenthood is now in the transitioning business?

I didn't, until I saw a report today.  I was shocked.  

Lila rose with Live Action and exposed Planned Parenthood's new money maker.  She called 12 locations throughout the country where she told the person on the other line that she was 16 and recently realized she is suffering from gender dysphoria and wants to transition.  The person on the other line offered an immediate telemedicine call that will take about 20 minutes and then the young girls can have her life transforming hormone medications.  No need for a consultation.  No therapy needed.  Just meds that once the young person starts taking them, will change her/his life and health forever.  Doing over 1000 abortions a day, murdering babies, is not enough, now they go after young people to destroy their identity.

"So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them." Genesis 1:27.

Are you upset yet?  This is done with taxpayers money!  2022 to 2023 they received $ 670.4 Million dollars in government funding.

Planned Parenthood was founded by Margaret Sanger, a nurse who claimed to care about the health of women and wanted to give women economic and personal freedom by providing birth control.  But there is more to the story.  She was a supporter of eugenics.  A movement that aimed to improve the "quality" of the population through selective breeding.

Colossians 3:10-11: "And have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. Here there is no Gentile or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all."

The image of God in humanity transcends cultural or social distinctions, uniting all in Christ.

"And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. It is not surprising, then, if his servants also masquerade as servants of righteousness. Their end will be what their actions deserve." 2 Corinthians 11:14-15.

There will be judgement for these evil doers but do your part.  Protect your children by praying over them. Educate your children on creation, they are not random mistakes of nature.  Teach your kids how much God loves them and that they are masterpieces, fearfully and wonderfully created, for His Glory.

May 10, 2025

2 things.. Trump

There are a few Pastors that I have followed on-line, and loved their focus on prophecy and the End Times.  However, their focus on End Time prophecies has put their focus on certain Trump Administration policies and have squarely aligned them against President Trump.  I disagree with this stance.

Trump's push for AI is seen as a fulfillment of end-times prophecies, associating it with dehumanizing forces like the "mark of the beast" (Revelation 13).  This chapter describes two beasts, often interpreted in eschatology as symbols of evil powers opposing God, being a focal point for speculation about control, deception, and allegiance in the end-times. We can connect this imagery to modern technologies like AI. Our modern day tower of Babel.

There are also ethical Risks. Fears of AI enabling harm, like autonomous weapons or surveillance, that would clash with our values.

Push for Bitcoin as a monetary system which is also considered fulfillment of Bible Prophecy.   Revelation 13:16-17 “Also it causes all, both small and great, both rich and poor, both free and slave, to be marked on the right hand or the forehead, so that no one can buy or sell unless he has the mark, that is, the name of the beast or the number of its name.”

Personally, I believe AI and Bitcom will happen whether or not the US supports these new technologies.  Do we want rogue nations to be the leaders or do we take control and manage these world changing movements?  

On the other hand, President Trump's focus on US Sovereignty and nationalism push us away from the one-world government described in Revelation 13.  Trump’s resistance to globalism is actually delaying a one-world government under the Antichrist.

Since his first administration Trump has shown his support of Israel.  He moved the US embassy to Jerusalem and recognized Jerusalem as Its Capital.   He also brokered the Abraham Accords, normalizing relations between Israel and several Arab nations.  In Bible prophecy, we see Israel as the central figure in End-time events. This too is seen by some as a set-up of Bible Prophecy, as this could be the Peace deal confirmed by the anti-christ as described in Daniel 9:27, that speaks of a covenant involving Israel, often interpreted as a peace agreement in the end-times, which will start the 7 year Tribulation period.

Yes, I agree some of President Trump's policies are setting us up for the antichrist to fulfill these Bible prophecies that once upon a time seemed impossible to achieve.  However, these prophecies were written 2000 plus years ago and they will be fulfilled.  The final analysis will show we have all had a hand in the progression that brings us to the fulfillment of these End-time Bible Prophecies.

In the meantime, lets focus on Colossians 3:23-24 - "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.

May 9, 2025

The Lord's Prayer

Let's meditate today on the Lord's Prayer!

“Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name.
Your kingdom come,
your will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
and forgive us our debts,
as we also have forgiven our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.”

For yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory, forever. Amen.”

Matthew 6:9-13 (ESV)

Jesus is teaching His disciples how to pray.  He gives them a template for prayer.

• Adoration and Reverence

• Begin prayer by addressing God with intimacy (“Our Father” sometimes I call him daddy) and awe, acknowledging His holiness and supreme authority. This sets a tone of worship and respect, prioritizing God’s glory.

• Submission to God’s Will 

• Align your desires with God’s purposes, praying for His kingdom to advance and His will to be fulfilled personally and globally.  This reflects surrender and trust in His plan.

• Petition for Daily Needs 

• Request provision for immediate, practical needs with humility and dependence, trusting God for sustenance without anxiety about the future.

• Seeking Forgiveness and Reconciliation 

• Confess your sins, seek God’s forgiveness, and commit to forgiving others. This emphasizes repentance and relational restoration as integral to prayer.

• Protection from Temptation and Evil 

• Ask for spiritual guidance and protection, acknowledging human vulnerability to sin and the need for God’s strength against evil forces or trials.
  

Pray. Tell your heavenly father what is on your heart today!

May 8, 2025

Can two opposite things be true? Covid??

The World Health Organization and other sources like Worldometer report approximately 7.06 million confirmed COVID-19 deaths globally as of April 2025.  These numbers are considered under-reported, and other reports estimate at least 18 million deaths.

The covid lockdowns caused unmeasurable damage.   Economic impact; business closure, loss of jobs, global economic contraction.

Great impact on child development and educational delays.

The isolationism increased anxiety, depression and suicide rates dramatically increased.  

Can we then find any benefits from this terrible time that the world lived through!?I can! 

 Parents were able to stay home and spend time with their children.  For the first time most parents actually learned what their children were being taught in schools.

Christians woke up to the bias against our faith.  Churches were closed.  Later, we were limited to 10 people and no worship. (Psalm 29:2

"Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name; worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness.");  while bars, liquor stores and cannabis dispensaries were considered essential and were open.

Many who previously trusted the government and government agencies started questioning the agenda.  Why are we under lockdown but there is no covid risk for those in the streets rallying for social justice agendas, e.g. George Floyd, Black lives matter.

And then many started questioning science.  Are we to trust organizations that push Covid protocols that seem to kill instead of heal?  Are we to believe the science when they mandated a vaccine without proper testing, on the whole population?

In summary, I believe that after the pain, fear and horrible consequences of the Covid pandemic, most of the world woke up!   As a result, we have seen shifts in governments worldwide, we are seeing an awakening when it comes to our health, pharmaceuticals, the foods we eat.  We are starting to take responsibility for ourselves and our families!  

2 Corinthians 5:10 

"For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad."

Of course, the most important is the revelation that the government is not our protector, we must look up to our creator.

Next time there is a pandemic or plandemic let's meditate on the many times the Lord tells us not to fear, to be courageous and to stand!

Revelation 21:7-8: "Those who are victorious will inherit all this, and I will be their God and they will be my children. But the cowardly, the unbelieving… their place will be in the fiery lake of burning sulfur."

May 7, 2025

Can two things be opposite yet both true?

For those of us that have been looking up for the return of Jesus Christ in the clouds and follow Bible prophecy we are in the midst of a conombrum.  Have we been wrong when believing that Jesus was coming back any minute because of all the signs in Luke 21, and the Book of Revelation being revealed.   And in 2 Thessalonians 2:3 "Let no one deceive you in any way. For that day will not come, unless the great falling away comes first, and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the son of destruction,"

We are seeing our Nation celebrating Christianity and bringing Jesus back into the conversation.  We now have a department of Faith at the White House, Social media is replete with young people worshipping the Lord.  Apologetics teachers are busy from podcast to podcast. I find that many even find it cool now to follow Jesus.  I see the opposite of a falling away.  I feel Revival, an Awakening. 

Has God changed his mind about the return of Jesus?  The short answer is No.

Paul tells us "For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known."  I Corinthians 13:12.  The closer we get to the return of Jesus the clearer we can see the scriptures coming to life.

Yet, as I read the news every day all we see is the chaos exposed to us in Luke 21 and Matthew 24.. 

“See that you are not led astray. For many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am he!’ and, ‘The time is at hand!’ Do not go after them. And when you hear of wars and tumults, do not be terrified, for these things must first take place, but the end will not be at once.“Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom.  There will be great earthquakes, and in various places famines and pestilences. And there will be terrors and great signs from heaven.

We are definitely in this season.

Ultimately, God is in control.  Only He knows the day and the hour.  Jesus tells us in Matthew 5:18  “For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished.”

So keep looking up, we will be rewarded for this expectancy while still celebrating this wonderful season we are in. 

May 6, 2025

Undercover Christian

I had a friend that used to tell us stories about how he was an undercover Christian.   Most of the stories were funny at the time he told them, as they were part of his testimony.  But, in fact, we all share this in common as believers.  Sometimes we just don't feel like telling people we are followers of Jesus because it might start a conversation or we don't want to be judged.  Sad.

We were members of a church years ago and we loved our Pastor although we had lots of theological differences.  Our air- conditioner broke and he recommended his serviceman.  Within five minutes of his being in our home my husband learned he was a Jehovah witness, and started witnessing to him.  We also learned that after knowing our pastor for 25 years, he didn't know his long time customer was a Christian Pastor.

Shocking.

In the early days of my faith journey, I was having a very bad day.  I was having a pity party. I was trying to figure out who around me could be a Christian?  Randomly, I had a thought about a customer/friend, he was the nicest, sweetest person I knew.  I called him right away and without thinking it through, or even saying hello.  I asked him,  "are you a Christian?" He responded, "sweetie I have been a deacon for 30 years".  With anger in my voice, I said, "why didn't you ever share the Gospel with me?"  His response was that he didn't see a need, my life was so good and put together."  "Well, shame on you, there was nothing put together about my life."  We ended the conversation without further discussion.  I never heard from him again.  This still makes me sad.  He was a wonderful man that had a big impact in my life.  But, he didn't do what I needed the most, he didn't tell me about Jesus.

Heartbreaking.

Although I used to find it quite difficult to share my faith, I knew that we have a responsibility to let everyone we know, that we follow Jesus.  First, we have a command from Jesus to go onto the whole world and preach the Gospel, Mark 16:15.  The world starts with our family, our neighbors, everyone we meet.  Secondly, we live with eternal hope but there are billions of people in the world living without hope in this crazy and dark world.  We must give unbelievers the ability to come to us when they need help, advice, or prayer.  Give people an opportunity to choose to follow Jesus . I have found that even people that have attacked me or tried to ridicule my faith run to me when they have found themselves in difficulty.  Don't cover your light by going undercover, be the light Jesus has called you to be.

Change someone's eternal future, tell them you follow Jesus!

Matthew 5:16 - "Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."

May 5, 2025

Kingdom of Darkness

This is a story and a subject I don't like discussing, but here I go..

My mother was born to atheist parents.  Very early on, she showed signs of what we call giftings.  She could sense and see into the spiritual realm. She was also very sickly.  At the age of 17, already married with a child, she was dying and doctors couldn't identity her illness. The family heard of a healer and they took her there.  She was told that, if she wanted to live she had to be baptized into Santeria, "it was her calling". She was skeptic, yet she agreed and she was soon introduced to Santeria's spiritualism. She recovered and believed the lie that she had to serve these dark sources or face consequences.  My mom was a "good person" ( Jesus said only God is good, Mark 10:18)  so she decided she would use these powers for good, to help and heal people, and never for evil.   Somewhere along the way she knew there was a God and Jesus is His son and she believed she was indirectly serving them.  "What relationship can light have with darkness, 2 Corinthians 6:14."  This is the world I was born into. I have first hand experience with these dark forces of evil.  Satan's kingdom and the demonic realm is very real and alive on the earth today.  

And he said to them, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. Behold, I have given you authority to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall hurt you. Nevertheless, do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.” Luke 10:18-20 

In America, we see witches as cute entertainment figures.  We believe Satan is just a little animated puppet that speaks into our ear.  The church, for the most part, refuses to address this topic. So, people are deceived.  First, I want to say that there is little to no help for people suffering from possession or oppression in the church.  Secondly, we as believers want to ignore this issue.  Everything that happens to us, we believe is either the flesh or in the natural.  We are told that once in Christ, nothing can touch us.  Read the story of Job, that is not biblical.

I could write a book on my experiences with the realm of darkness before and after becoming a Christian but as I said before, I don't like this subject, so I won't.

My goal in writing this Thought is to warn you so that you won't  allow yourselves to be deceived.  We must be alert, vigilant to spiritual influences.  Are we opening ourselves and our family to demonic forces?  What movies are you watching?  What music are you listening to? Are you careful the words that you speak? Who are you allowing into your home? Are you aware that sins like drugs, drinking, fornication and even cursing are windows and doors that you can open for dark forces to enter your home, giving them permission to wreak havoc.  

Once upon a time, even a headache I would  blame on evil spiritual forces.  Don't do that! But, if you are feeling sick, depressed, overburdened bring these things before the Father in prayer, through Jesus and by the power of the Holy Spirit.   Ask our heavenly Father to give you discernment to close any opening the enemy could be using to enter your life.   Ask Him to protect you and send warring angels from heaven to protect you, anoint your home with oil, cover the atmosphere in Worship!  "For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Ephesians 6:12.

"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication.. Ephesians 6:10-18."

May 4, 2025

Angels

It is common for believers and non -believers alike to say things like, he/she gained his wings, God needed another angel (and a few others I won't mention) to suggest humans will become angels.  Please stop.  Human beings will never be angels!

Although not specially written in the Bible, it is inferred that angels were created before human beings.

Job 38:4-7: This passage describes God laying the foundations of the earth, with the "morning stars" (often interpreted as angels) singing and the "sons of God" (another term for angels) shouting for joy. This suggests angels were already present when God created the earth.

Since angels are spiritual beings and not part of the physical creation described in Genesis 1, their creation likely predates the six-day creation account.

The Word tells us angels were created by God to be messengers, in fact, the word angel means messenger in Greek.  Also, Angels were created to be warriors and worshippers.  Like humans Angels have free will and can sin like Lucifer and his followers.  Unlike humanity God has no redemption plan for them.

Many times in the old Testament we can see angels taking bodily form.  In Hebrews 13:2 we read "Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unaware. So when Angels take bodily form they look just like us, they are not described as having wings.  In Genesis 18:1-2, we read that  three "men" visit Abraham, later they are described as angels.

As messengers, Angels are not to be worshipped.  They are mere created spiritual beings.  Revelation 19:10 "Then I fell down at his feet to worship him, but he said to me, 'You must not do that! I am a fellow servant with you and your brothers who hold to the testimony of Jesus. Worship God.'" John, overwhelmed by the vision and the angel delivering it, attempts to worship the angel. The angel immediately rebukes him, identifying as a "fellow servant" and directing worship to God alone.

Although we are fellow servants, only humanity was created in God's image, He breathed life into us.  We share a   reflection of certain of His divine attributes.  One of these attributes is free will, we have the choice between good and evil.  The free will to sin, and we all do, but He offered His Son Jesus that through His birth, death and resurrection we could be redeemed back to the Father, and have eternal life with Him.  Humans are the focus of God’s redemptive plan.   

Angels are indeed fascinating creatures, described in the Bible with some amazing characteristics but they were not created in God's image, and there is no redemption plan for them.

So, if you are ever tempted to assume humanity would become angels, remember  Hebrews 1:14: "Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?"

May 3, 2025

Immigration

This is the number one subject on the news for the last 3 months.  The Trump administration wants to deport all criminal illegals while the democrats want to give them the same rights as American Citizens, affording them all due process.  Beyond the criminal illegals we don't really know if Trump's administration will deport many more illegals.  During his first term he deported less immigrants than Obama and George W. Bush during their administrations.  

In Romans 13:1-7: Paul teaches that governing authorities are established by God to maintain order, punish evil, and promote good. Governments are responsible for upholding justice and providing a framework where people can live peacefully. Citizens are called to respect and submit to authorities, insofar as they align with God's moral law.  The question is, did the Biden administration do that when they opened our borders and allowed millions of people in, without due process.  As a result, American Citizens are suffering.  

Parents that are suffering the ultimate pain of losing their children at the hand of illegals that were not supposed to be in this country.  This being the worst of the innumerable amount of crimes committed by illegals.

Those Christians that believe the Christian way is to allow open borders let me remind you that even heaven will have walls.  Revelation 21:12 The city has a great, high wall with twelve gates.  If you believe that open borders is compassion let's consider the children of illegals immigrants who have drowned, the ones trafficked, or the woman that are raped on their journey to America.   

I am a naturalized US citizen, I was not born in the USA.  My parents brought us to this country legally (a process that took many years and thousands of dollars), running away from oppression with the hope of freedom.  The freedom to work and succeed, to have a future.  Because of my own personal experience I have a soft spot for immigrants.  I have been surrounded by illegal immigrants all my life that just want to work and make a path for their families.  That does not mean I condone the illegal immigration but I see them as human beings who came here with the same hope my family had when we took that flight to freedom.  

As believers, how do we approach this subject with the love of Jesus, grace and mercy.  If we follow the scriptures we know that illegal immigration is wrong, nations need walls, and the government is there to protect its citizens.  Yet, we are also called to be good and just to foreigners.

We need to stand with the administration that wants to deport the criminal illegals.  We need to stand with the administration that wants to protect its citizens.  Personally, we are to feed, clothe and be kind to foreigners.  Matthew 25:35: "For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in."

I pray for this administration that it can deport these criminals along with all those taking advantage of the system quickly and safely.  While also showing some mercy for those that are here because they love this country and are working, paying their taxes and are an asset to this country.

May 2, 2025

Prayer

Yesterday was the National Day of prayer.  What a wonderful reminder to pray for our Nation, our President and all those in government. 

In fact, we are called to Pray without ceasing.. I Thessalonians 5:17.  This verse encourages believers to maintain a constant attitude of prayer, staying in communion with God throughout our daily lives. It’s part of a series of instructions Paul gives to the Thessalonian church for living a faithful Christian life.  Again, is Paul telling us to stop our lives and just pray.  No, Paul is telling us to keep our hearts in a posture of prayer.

When I came to the Lord, I was in so much need that I found myself praying about everything from what clothes to wear that would honor Him to big things like the salvation of my family.  I learned that I need this communion with our heavenly father to live in this crazy world.

Several years ago I was driving into the Miami Airport at 11am, so there was no traffic.  I was early so I was relaxed as I drove, a little under the speed limit.  All of a sudden I heard 6 or 7 motorcycles approaching me, at high speeds.   One of the bikes was ahead of the others and he, for no reason, cut me off.  As he did that I reacted, and asked the Lord, "Jesus protect him".  When my car turned the corner the bike had smashed against the wall, the motorcycle destroyed.  I stopped my car but was shaking so badly I couldn't move.  The other bikers ran to the accident where the rider was standing, nothing happened to him.  He flew off the bike before the bike hit the wall.  I am convinced that that short three word prayer saved this young man's life.  I will forever remember that incident.  It serves as my reminder to pray for everyone!  Yes, even those drivers that cut you off.  We don't know how our prayers are impacting the people around us, but someday we will.

We pray because we believe that Jesus hears are prayers. Luke 11:9-10:

"And I tell you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened."  Align your heart with the will of God and you will see Him move in your life and the life of those around you, as you pray.

Remember, no prayer is too small or too big as our heavenly father loves us and reminds us in Philippians 4:6-7

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

May 1,2025

What's missing from the Bible?

Recently, I was watching a short video of Charlie Kirk at a university rally.  He was surrounded by hundreds of young conservatives.  At the mic was an older man that stated he was sent by the Holy Spirit, who had told him to go and have a fist fight with Charlie.  Charlie Kirk's refusal was smart and assertive.

I don't know anything about that man but we know he believes he is a Christian, and he believes the Holy Spirit speaks to him.

How many of us believe we are hearing from the Holy Spirit, when in fact, it is the voice in our heads.  I know, I have been there.  

When I became a believer I struggled with the church's stand on abortion and homosexuality.  Aren't abortions acceptable in some cases, doesn't God make people gay?  At this point, these were mere questions in my heart and not assertions. I prayed for answers, but they didn't come.  One night I was reading a Billy Graham book, Just As I am.  He tells the story of one night when he was questioning God and he kneeled next to a rock and told God, "I surrender, from now on I will believe you and then you can show me".  (This could be a paraphrase as it's been so long).  I decided to repeat the same prayer.  I woke up the next morning knowing that abortion was wrong and homosexuality is a distortion of God's perfect will for human sexuality. 

I realized then, the reason I couldn't see the truth was that I was reading the Word through my own lens, my own filter, through the distortion of my feelings and personal experiences.  It was until I surrendered completely that the Holy Spirit was able write truth in my heart and soul.

In order to avoid the trap of lies and confusion we must learn to read the Word, with the guidance of the Holy Spirit, surrendering our thoughts and feelings to His truth. 

Timothy 3:16-17

"All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work."

I heard a preacher say, there is something missing from the Bible last week.  I never heard that before but he is right.  The Bible does not include our opinions.  I will add that the Bible doesn't account for our feelings or emotions.  While feelings, emotions, and our experiences are part of how God created us we must put them under the authority of the Truth in the Word of God.

Pray today and surrender all to God that He can reveal Himself to you in any area where you are being misled...

April 30,2025

On the verge

Are we on the verge of Revival, of a Spiritual Awakening?

Am I wrong to say the name of Jesus is being proclaimed now more than any other time in recent memory:

Sports people praising Jesus, famous Podcasters discussing their faith journeys, social media replete with young men and woman praising, and teaching the Word.  My heart skips a beat every time I see them,

Isaiah 61:10: "I will greatly rejoice in the LORD; my soul shall exult in my God, for he has clothed me with the garments of salvation;

In the news yesterday, it was reported that the UK has quadrupled church attendance in young churchgoers, with Bible sales nearly double since 2021.

In the US it was reported that churches had record attendance for Easter Services.   In 2024, U.S. Bible sales surged by 22% through October compared to the same period in 2023, with 13.7 million copies sold, approaching the 14.2 million sold for the entire year of 2023. From 2019 to 2023, sales rose from 9.7 million to 14.2 million, reflecting a consistent upward trend.

Globally, over 100 million Bibles are distributed annually, with strong growth in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. 

The increase in Bible sales reflects a global resurgence of interest in spirituality,  the core driver appears to be a universal search for hope and meaning in turbulent times. 

Many young people feel a spiritual void, seeking transcendence beyond materialism or secular ideologies. Jesus offers a personal relationship with God.

So are we are the verge?  Is the Holy Spirit watering the seeds of Revival and Awakening?  Let's join Him by spreading the Good News wherever we go.  Tell your neighbors.  Tell the mailman.  Tell the clerk at the grocery store.

Especially, tell the young people around you.  Tell them there is purpose, they can find meaning in Jesus’ teachings, which emphasize loving God and others Matthew 22:37-39 and living for a higher calling.  Faith in Jesus helps young people navigate existential questions, giving them a framework for knowing their worth as creations of God, Psalm 139:14, and their role in His story. 

There is hope, in Jesus.   Mental health challenges, including anxiety and depression, are prevalent among young people.  The good news of Jesus brings them hope and peace.  "For God does not give us the spirit of fear (depression, anxiety) but power, love and a sound mind" 2 Timothy 1:7

Tell them, they can have eternal life, a future that never ends, in Christ Jesus. The fear of mortality or an uncertain future can weigh on young people. Jesus offers the hope of eternal life, reducing fear and grounding in joy.   Jesus said, "I am the resurrection and the life.  The one that believes in me will live, and never die.

In Joel 2:28-29 and Acts 2:17-18 we are told, "And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, and your young men shall see visions. Even on the male and female servants in those days I will pour out my Spirit.”

Are we living a fulfillment of this Bible Prophecy?

April 29,2025

Parenting - Part 5

Why Young People Leave the Church?

The exodus of young adults from church, approximately 66–70% of Protestant youth is driven by a mix of personal, cultural, and institutional factors. 

The transition from high school to college or the workforce disrupts church attendance for 96% of dropouts, with 47% of college-goers citing moving away as a key factor .

New schedules, living away from home, and social pressures reduce the habit of attending. 

College exposes young adults to diverse worldviews, often challenging childhood beliefs.

Young adulthood is a time of asserting independence. Many view church as a parental or community expectation rather than a personal choice, leading to disengagement.

Barna (2018) notes that 64% of 18–29-year-olds with a Christian background withdraw because they want to “forge their own path.

Disagreement with Church Teachings: 70% of dropouts cite religious, ethical, or political disagreements, up from 52% a decade earlier.  Issues like church stances on sexuality, science, or social justice (e.g., racial equality, climate change) alienate younger generations, who prioritize inclusivity and relevance. 

Cultural Secularization: Exposure to secular media, academia, and peers normalizes non-religious worldviews. Pew Research (2016) shows 90% of “nones” (religiously unaffiliated) leave religion before age 29, often citing intellectual doubts or a preference for spirituality over organized religion.

Weak or entertainment-focused youth programs fail to build lasting faith. Barna (2018) notes that 60% of young adults felt their church didn’t prepare them for real-world challenges

Studies confirm that children are more likely to stay in church if parents actively practice faith, enjoy church, and engage in spiritual practices like prayer or family dinners. 

However, when parents are nominal believers or delegate faith formation to church programs, youth are less likely to retain faith. Lifeway (2023) found that inconsistent parental example doubles the rate of church drop outs.

 If parents don’t instill a robust faith foundation—through quality time, engagement, and Godly example your youth may lack the conviction to stay engaged amid cultural pressures.

No matter what statistic or analysis we look at, it all comes down to lack of Personal faith.

Many young people raised in church lack a deep, personal connection to God. Young people are lacking a Christian Worldview and don't have their own personal relationship with Jesus Christ, Lord and Savior.

Are you teaching and demonstrating a love of God and His Word.  Are you teaching your children that to love Jesus we must sacrifice our own emotions and feelings.  Are you teaching your children to defend their faith, apologetics?  Are you teaching and preparing your children for the evils of this world?  If you are not, you are not only doing them a disservice but you are setting them up for failure, and the heart ache that comes from being distanced from the Love of God, the written instructions left to us by Jesus, and the guiding and leading from the Holy Spirit.

Proverbs 22:6 (ESV): "Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart.

April 28,2025

Parenting - Part 4

I hear all the time from parents that their children just don't listen.  But parents, are you talking to them?  

Sometimes children and teenagers are listening when we don't think they are.

When I started going to church, my daughter was 10 years old and my niece who I always took to church was 11. We started in a tiny church where the youngest person was in there late 70s.  We were the only young family, so there was no children's ministry.  The first Sunday the girls talked and giggled although we were constantly reprimanding them.  Wednesday night the pastors wife was prepared with coloring books and crayons to keep them busy.  What never failed is that when we got in the car my husband and I would discuss the sermon and even argue about our different understandings of the message.  My daughter would always jump in and explain the sermon.  Somehow, she always knew what the pastor spoke about and she had the heart to receive the message.

So, no matter what the girls were doing during the sermon, I knew they were listening. Isaiah 11:6’s and a little child should lead them.

I volunteered for several years as a coach on an online chat ministry.  Half the kids were from non-believing families and the goal is to give them tangible advise while presenting the Gospel.  What really hurt me is that the other 50 percent were young people from Christian families, even children of Pastors.  During our chats I would always ask, "what does your dad/mom say about this?" And the answer was always the same.  "I don't know .. he/she doesn't discuss this issue."  the issue would be sex, masturbating, cutting, etc.

I understand that some of these subjects are difficult but if you don't discuss them with your child, someone else will. Talk to your kids.

“Hear, my son, your father’s instruction,

and forsake not your mother’s teaching,

for they are a graceful garland for your head and pendants for your neck.”  Proverb 1:8-9.  Here Solomon is giving the children  instructions to listen to the parents. 

 Parents must talk to the children, impart wisdom and practical instructions for life. Ground your kids with truth!

Talk to your kids!

April 26,2025

Parenting - Part 3

As I am writing this, Florida State University is under lock down.  There is an active shooter.  I am praying for the Lord to send warring angels and protect those young people, teachers, and personnel in the area.

Have we become desensitized to all these school shootings?  If so, repent, and pray against this evil that has been attacking our children not only in the US but worldwide.

I remember the Columbine shooting.  That is the first school shooting I can remember.  I was glued to the television, crying and praying.  I was so shaken!  I went to church that day, needing a Word of hope and comfort.  I found neither.  There was no mention of the shooting from the pulpit or anyone else.  The Lord instructs us to mourn with those who mourn Romans 12:15. states, "Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn." 

This is one of the issues wrong with so many churches.  Columbine was a tragedy, not only to those families but for

every parent.  The atmosphere should have been filled with prayers for comfort, for peace, and for the prevention of future attacks.

Are you talking to your children?  Talk to them about the evil in the world but stress the peace and comfort we have in Jesus.  

One of the young girls interviewed was

asked why she wasn't rattled by what she had just seen (she heard the shots and later saw an injured person taken out in a stretcher). Her response, "I have the peace Jesus provides."

Wow.  She made me smile in spite of the horrible circumstances.  She was living out her faith, she has the peace that surpasses understanding Philippians 4:7 "And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." 

We can't protect our children from this evil world but we can cover them in prayer.  We can also teach them the word of God that it will be a shield in times of trouble.

April 25,2025

Parenting - Part 2

It's important to be cautious when taking advice from popular culture or even self-proclaimed experts on raising children. I once believed the idea that quality time was more important than quantity time but I've come to realize that's a misconception, even a lie.

Consider these biblical references:

Deuteronomy 6:6-7: "These commandments..teach them diligently to your children, talk of them when you sit in your house, walk by the way, lie down, and rise up." This suggests constant, intentional time imparting values.

Psalm 127:3-5: Children are a "heritage from the Lord," emphasizing their value and the responsibility to cherish them.

Yes, I cherished my daughter and worked very hard to make quality time for her, but I was also pulled in so many different directions, time was limited. If I would do it again I would drop the quality time and realize that as a mom I had a directive from the Lord, to spend time with my daughter.  

Don't misunderstand me.  

Spending quality time—listening, teaching, or playing—builds trust and conveys love more effectively than passive presence.   Most parents today 

allow their children to spend most of their time on phones and computers, or invertly the mom is on the phone while the kids are yearning and needing their attention.

Fifteen quality minutes with your child every night is not enough to train, set an example, and build a future man or woman, no matter what the experts say.

Be intentional and spend time with your children.  Raise the next generation of Godly men and women!

April 24,2025

Parenting - Part 1

I am sure you have heard the idiom monkey see monkey do, nothing is more true.  Your children will mimic you, and your spouse without reason or understanding.  They will learn good and bad behaviors from their parents. Statistics show that children that hear their parents use profanity will start to use bad language as part of their vocabulary.  Children that experience violence while growing up will become abusers themselves.  Be careful what you do around your children.

Instead of inadvertently teaching children bad habits, we should actively teach them godly and virtuous behaviors.  How do we do that is walking it?  Show them what love, joy, peace and patience looks like.  Teach them how to follow Jesus, with your prayer life, your obedience to Jesus and His Word.

 "Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children." Ephesians 5:1

Proverbs 22:6: "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it."

One of my most precious memories was a Saturday afternoon when my grandson was 6 years old.  My daughter and her husband had moved to our area and on Saturdays I would pick up the boys and take them to the pool.  I wanted to give the parents a break and spend time with them.  On that particular day, about 2 months into their move, my grandson said he wanted me to baptize him.

I suggested he wait until he spoke to his parents.  He insisted, "it has to be today"  It shook me a little. So I said I would, if he would tell his parents and got baptized again with them present.  After I had the honor of baptizing this sweet little boy.  I asked him why he was so insistent. He replied,  "Grandma, my dad received Jesus and got baptized.  He is a new man now and I want to be just like him.  I had to get baptized to be a new man too."  To this day, tears come to my eyes when I think about that moment.

 "The righteous who walk in his integrity—blessed are his children after him!"  Proverbs 20:7

April 23,2025

The Pope's death - a call to prayer

I have been wanting to write about the death of Pope Francis since it happened but I had to give myself some time to pray and ask the Lord to give me the gift of grace for this Daily Thought.

When my husband and I got married, it was the union of two people in chaos, carrying lots of baggage.

We started to visit a Catholic Church near the house.  I didn't find the love of Jesus or his teachings (with my little understanding) but lots of ceremony which I couldn't understand.  Why so much gold and pomp when I knew Jesus himself has a simple and poor man.

It took an incident in the parking lot, where a woman insulted us that we realized we didn't belong there.  By this time, we knew we needed help but didn't know where to find it.  We were stuck.

Since that time and other incidents along the way with Catholics, and the church, I have never had high praise for the Catholic institution.

Later, as we became born again believers and I started reading and learning the Bible I have even less acceptance of the Catholic church and it's teachings.  In my personal view there are many Catholic teachings that do not align with the teaching of Jesus Christ.

Over the years I have been quietly critical of Pope Frances, who in my view took the church to the left in his stands on immigration and climate change, moral issues etc.  Lets review a few of his statements and compare them to the words of Jesus. 

In Singapore (September 2024), Pope Francis said, “All religions are paths to reach God. They are like different languages to arrive at God.” This was during an interreligious dialogue with young people, suggesting that non-Christian religions can be seen as preparatory paths toward God.

Jesus told us, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” John 14:6. In this verse Jesus tells us he is the exclusive mediator of salvation, a cornerstone of our faith.

In 2023 Pope Francis said, “If someone is gay and he searches for the Lord and has good will, who am I to judge?” . This reflects Francis’ emphasis on mercy over condemnation. 

Jesus taught, “Do not judge, or you too will be judged” Matthew 7:1, but also called for repentance, saying, “Unless you repent, you will all likewise perish” Luke 13:3. He balanced mercy with moral accountability, as seen in his encounter with the woman caught in adultery: “Neither do I condemn you; go, and sin no more” John 8:11.  Francis’ statement aligns with Jesus’ teaching against judgmental attitudes, emphasizing compassion for individuals.  However, Francis’ omission of a call for repentance downplays Jesus’ demand for moral transformation. Jesus’ approach integrates mercy with a clear expectation of turning away from sin.

"Proselytism is solemn nonsense; it makes no sense… We need to get to know each other, listen to each other” stated Pope Francis.  He emphasizes dialogue over conversion efforts.  Jesus commanded, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” Matthew 28:19-20, prioritizing the spread of the Gospel.

In 2020, Francis said, “Homosexual people have a right to be in a family… What we have to create is a civil union law.” In 2023, he approved blessings for same-sex couples under specific conditions, emphasizing pastoral care but not sacramental marriage.  Jesus did not directly address homosexuality, but he upheld traditional marriage, saying, “A man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh” Matthew 19:5. 

In the last few months I see a realignment. A realignment in politics, in the moral fabric of our nation. But, what I also see is the involvement of outspoken Catholics in the media, in politics, podcasts etc.  Is it possible that God is ready to bring in a new Pope.  A new Pope that will align his teachings to the Word of God, the teachings of Jesus Christ.

Let's pray before His Throne of Grace that, as we have seen a shake up in our Nation, there is a shake up in the Catholic church that will bring its followers back to Christ!

Hebrews 4:14 "Therefore, since we have a great high priest who had passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we profess".

Hebrews 4:16 "therefore, let us approach God's Throne with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us at the right time."

April 22,2025

Justice

What is the definition of justice; giving each person what he or she deserves or, in more traditional terms, giving each person his or her due. Justice and fairness are closely related terms that are often today used interchangeably. 

The Bible's definition of justice: 

Upholding God's standards of right and wrong, treating others fairly and with dignity, and ensuring that people receive what they are due, while also advocating for the vulnerable and marginalized. 

Exodus 23:1-3,  God instructs the Israelites on maintaining fairness in legal matters:

“Do not spread false reports. Do not help a guilty person by being a malicious witness. Do not follow the crowd in doing wrong. When you give testimony in a lawsuit, do not pervert justice by siding with the crowd, and do not show favoritism to a poor person in a lawsuit.”

As we look around, do we see justice ?

Turn on the media, or read a newspaper and most of the headlines are lies to distract and to mislead.

Have you witnessed the lawfare of the last 4 years that turned the US into a banana Republic?

Are the crowds that we see today, spewing lies about certain people, or in support of woke ideas that go against the heart of God aware they will face God's judgment?

Are you keeping track of the fraud that DOGE is finding in all government Agencies? Do you realize we the people have been paying; this money has been stolen from us, the taxpayers.  Who orchestrated all this fraud, our politicians,  the heads of these agencies?  How long has this been going on? Are we talking about trillions of dollars?  The worst part, is that this money has not only been used to line the pockets of these fraudsters but it has been used to strengthen an agency that goes against the interests of the American people.  We have been giving money to terrorists, every woke idea known to man, rich men getting richer under the premise of philanthropy.

Will we see any of these evil thieves face justice?  I can't say that we will see justice in the here and the now.  I am comforted to know that we serve a God of love but also justice.  If they don't receive justice here, we will have  justice when they face Jesus at the Great White Throne on Judgement Day.

• John 5:28-29
  "Do not marvel at this, for an hour is coming when all who are in the tombs will hear his voice and come out, those who have done good to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil to the resurrection of judgment."

• Matthew 25:31-46 "When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit on his glorious throne... And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.
  

As we await justice here on earth, or justice before the White Throne on judgement day, let's remember to uphold justice in our sphere and to pray, pray, pray for God's plan for our Nation to be revealed.

April 21,2025

Amidst the constant news about tariffs, the Dow, and Elon Musk, the important topic of abortion has been overshadowed.  I think it's partly because The Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade on June 24, 2022, in the Dobbs v. Jackson, returning abortion regulation to the states.  Now many think that the fight is over.  It's far from over.  Studies show that abortions has dropped by as much as 90% in some states, but increased in liberal states that have little or no limitations on abortions.

Not only has the US allowed abortions but it has during many administrations pushed abortion as part of its global agenda.  Estimates indicate there are approximately 73 million abortions per year worldwide. 

I almost added to those numbers.

I was 20 years old, newly married when our friend and family doctor, walked around his desk and handed me a pink piece of paper.  I went to him because I wasn't felling well and thought I had a virus.  I looked at him and asked, "what is this?  He simply responded, "you need to take care of it.  You are too young for this risk".  I walked out without saying a word.  I am not sure I understood at the time what was happening.  I got home and my husband and father were both furious when they heard the doctor had actually set up an appointment for my abortion.  My dad took the reins and took me to 3 other doctors for their professional opinions; they all said the same thing.  I was a 20 year old diabetic who could die and my child would have some kind of physical or mental disability.  Even after those threats my father didn't budge, he would say.. "they don't know what they are talking about, only God knows."  I don't know why my father was so dead set against my abortion, he was not a Christian, he had no real basis for this conviction.

I didn't have the abortion.  I did spend 9 long horrible months.  I was treated as high risk throughout the pregnancy due to my physical and emotional state.  The day came and I had a beautiful baby girl, a perfect little girl, all ten fingers and all.  I was in intensive care for several days but after a week's hospital stay I was in great health (doctors couldn't explain it but my diabetes was gone).  

I think about it and I want to cry.  Had it not been for my father, today I would not have a daughter, a son-in-love and two handsome and smart grandsons, all serving the Lord.  But God!  His grace and love covered my life even when I didn't know Him.

Meditate on this:  An abortions doesn't only end a life, it's like cutting a branch from a family tree.  An abortion cuts off life, and purpose for all future generations!

God has purpose for every life he creates. 

Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations."  Jeremiah 1:5

I you are pregnant and for whatever reason wanting an abortion I beg you to find one of many wonderful pro life clinics and please choose life!

April 19,2025

This is such a solemn week.  Everything I listen to has to do with the crucifixion and the resurrection.  

We have to go through this Holy week, even meditating on the loss, to reach the empty tomb.

I would be lying if I told you I became a Christian the first time I went to church or even the second time.  I went on a  journey of discovery and learning.

One day, heading home from work I was listening to moody radio and they were interviewing a man whose name I never caught.   His son was killed by a young man trying to rob a pizza hut.  The victim was the manager and although it was his day off, went into work to give his friend and coworker a ride home.  Unfortunately, he was met with the violence that ended his life.  As I was listening, I was sobbing.  He continued his testimony by saying he knew that his son was with Jesus and his assignment was now the young man, the killer in prison.  I was shocked.  Years earlier I had lost my brother in an automobile accident.  To accept Jesus would mean I would accept that my brother, that I adored, could be in hell.

But, this man's testimony was so impactful, it nudged me forward.  The death of my brother was the unraveling of my family.  The loss, the pain, the unanswered questions.  The difference between my mourning, my walking through pain,  and his was palpable.  Christianity had a promise, a hope, we as a family had not known about, or experienced.  

I had to believe in the resurrection of Jesus.  Today, I know there is an actual verdict to the truth of the resurrection, that day I just knew that believing it could and would change my life!

I now live with the hope and the joy of a big family reunion, after I see Jesus in the clouds.

It took almost a year before I actually surrendered to Jesus.  But, I will always and forever remember the love and grace of a man that was holding on to his own belief and faith in the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Please invite someone to church.  Introduce someone to the love and hope we have in Jesus.

When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. Colossians 3:4

April 18,2025

The Passover commemorates God’s deliverance of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt, where the blood of a spotless lamb on doorposts caused the angel of death to “pass over” their homes (Exodus 12:1-28). 

Jesus was the ultimate Passover Lamb, whose sacrificial death on the cross atones for humanity’s sins, delivering believers from spiritual death (1 Corinthians 5:7; John 1:29).

His crucifixion coincided with Passover, reinforcing the connection between the Jewish passover , and the Last Supper as a Passover Meal. The Last Supper, where Jesus instituted the Lord’s Supper, Communion, was a Passover Seder

 Luke 22:15-20. And he said to them, “I have earnestly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer. For I tell you I will not eat it[a] until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God.” And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he said, “Take this, and divide it among yourselves. For I tell you that from now on I will not drink of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.”  And he took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.”  And likewise the cup after they had eaten, saying, “This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood.[b]

 Jesus redefined the bread and wine as symbols of His body and blood, establishing the new covenant (Matthew 26:26-28). 

 Communion echoes Passover, commemorating Christ’s sacrifice and the freedom from sin it provides.

 Just as God freed the Israelites from physical slavery, Christ’s sacrifice liberates believers from the bondage of sin, offering spiritual freedom and eternal life (Romans 6:5-11). This parallel underscores God’s redemptive plan across both Testaments.  The Passover is a foreshadow of Christ’s atoning work (Colossians 2:16-17). The unblemished lamb, the blood as protection, and the haste of the Exodus prefigure Jesus’ sinless life, His protective sacrifice, and the urgency of salvation.  This typology strengthens our understanding of Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament promises.

Passover,  underscores Jesus’ role as the sacrificial Lamb, ties the Lord’s Supper to its Jewish roots, and illustrates God’s redemptive love, bridging the Old and New Testaments.

I don't believe we must celebrate the Passover, (and might disagree) as God instructed the Israelites to celebrate. I do think sometimes the Lord puts it in our hearts to do so!  

Observing Passover or studying its traditions deepens our appreciation of our faith’s Jewish roots and the continuity of God’s plan. Participating in a Seder can be a meaningful way to reflect on Christ’s sacrifice and eternal plan.

April 17,2025

Previously, I spoke about God speaking to us.  But, sometimes I wonder why He bothers to speak to us at all.

Since Adam, we know the Lord is giving humanity prophecy, revelation and promises for their future and future generations.  No matter what these people were going through they held onto hope because they believed in His promises.  He has promises for You, hold on to them even in a storm.

In the story of Jonah, God is sending a message of judgement or mercy to an evil people.  In spite of Jonah's feelings he eventually delivered the message, which was positively received and God, for a time, gave them mercy.  So maybe God is speaking to you to be a messenger of His judgement or mercy, to someone in your life.

The story of Joshua is one of my favorites.  God speaks to Joshua in a time of uncertainty and  fear and gives him instruction and reassurance.

" Have I not commanded you?  Be strong and courageous.  Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9

If you are for any reason discouraged or afraid, God is speaking to you!

The Bible tells us that God created humanity in His image because He wanted a family.  He wanted a People that would have the choice to choose Him and love Him back freely, that we would live with him eternally, in His Kingdom.  A free Gift, an opportunity we receive through His Son Jesus.

Throughout the Word, the Lord is leading, guiding and instructing His people.

Our lives are so much easier, and unburdened when we live following the instructions He has set for us.  Remember the ultimate promise is eternal life with Him.

April 16,2025

How do we prepare for Easter Sunday or as I prefer,  Resurrection Day?

For most people it's become a secular holiday, preparing by buying chocolate bunnies and coloring boiled eggs, and dressing little girls with the cutest flowered dress they can find.

I used to belong to a large church where they do a very big Easter Celebration on Saturday, and they invited the whole community.  The celebration includes bunnies, chocolate bunnies and lots of egg and egg hunts.  The purpose, however, is to bring the children so that they and their parents can receive an invitation to hear about the Resurrection the following day.  Sunday is not about eggs and bunnies but about Jesus being raised from the dead that we can be redeemed from our sin, that we can have eternal life.

As I have said before, whatever it takes to get the unsaved to hear the message of salvation! 

And very early on the first day of the week, when the sun had risen, they went to the tomb. And they were saying to one another, “Who will roll away the stone for us from the entrance of the tomb?” And looking up, they saw that the stone had been rolled back—it was very large.  And entering the tomb, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, dressed in a white robe, and they were alarmed. And he said to them, “Do not be alarmed. You seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He has risen; he is not here. See the place where they laid him. Mark 16:2-6

Pray about how to use the bunny and the eggs simply as a tool to get the message out.  Remember,  as many say during Christmas,  Jesus is the reason for the season.

I look back and think that if someone had invited me to a church celebrating Easter, I would have gone.  Maybe I would have wanted to take my daughter to an egg hunt!!  But, you see I never received an invitation!!!

He rose from the dead!!!  He is alive sitting at the right hand of the Father!

Go tell your neighbors.  Invite the children to an egg hunt (wink, wink)

Spread the Good news...  HE IS ALIVE!

April 15,2025

As I listened to a Pastor preach on the crucifixion of Jesus, a message I have heard many times, I feel the same emotion, the same pain I felt the first time I heard it.  I feel a darkness, as if I was there experiencing the crucifixion of our Lord in person.  I can almost feel my pain as a follower 2000 years ago.  The excitement of finding the promised Messiah is gone, as he hangs suffering this excruciating death. The fear is felt in the air.  My hope is dead.  I have to keep reminding myself the resurrection day is coming.

This message of the crucifixion is what kept me from believing in Jesus.  Why would an all powerful God allow His son to be killed.  If Jesus is truly God, why would He allow himself to be humiliated, mocked, tortured, and killed in the most horrifying of ways.  The message of His sacrifice was a stumbling block for a strong, in control, prideful person like me.

God gave us the first imagery of sacrifice in Genesis 3:21 "The Lord God made garments of skin for Adam and Eve and clothed them."  They had disobeyed God,  eaten from the Tree of knowledge of good and evil.  As a result, they realized they are naked and are now ashamed.  Although, the Word doesn't not go into details, this is the first time blood is shed to cover the sin of humanity.  God gives them grace, providing clothing in preparation for the outside world.  The clothing of skin is symbolic not only of physical covering, but a spiritual one as well.

In Genesis 4:1-16 we have the first explicit act of sacrifice when Abel offered a blood sacrifice, the portions from the firstborn of his flock.  

In Leviticus 17:11 God is instructing the Israelites how to offer sacrifices and He explains:

"For the life of a creature is in the blood, and I have given it to you to make atonement for yourselves on the altar;  it is the blood that makes atonement for your souls, for it is the blood that makes atonement for life.

Three times a year, during the feasts of Passover, shavout, and feast of tabernacle, they were required to go to the temple and offer sacrifices for their sins.  But these are only temporary sacrifices.

As an animal was not enough to redeem man back to God, He provides Humanity a new and better covenant, Jesus.  Only the Blood of Jesus sacrifised could offer us redemption.

John 1:29 "Behold the Lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world."  He is the perfect, unblemished Lamb that shed His blood and offers us the opportunity to repent and be reconciled back to himself, the ultimate atonement.

It is not in weakness that God allowed His Son to be sacrificed.  It was in strength that he gave himself for us.  That He could be in relationship with Him for eternity.

Jesus' sacrifice on the cross stands as a symbol of His love, His mercy, and His grace.

How do we receive these gifts?  We first have to know that we are fallen, that we are sinful.  We have to put our pride aside and know we are mere created creatures, weak before a great and mighty God, acknowledge His blood sacrifice.

Confess these truths and ask Jesus to be the Savior, redeemer and Lord of your life.  

April 14,2025

This writing is not about a thought but one of my most favorite memories I would love to share with you...

One year, during this season, I felt a yearning for celebrating the Lord's Feast of Passover but didn't know where, we had just moved to the area, or how.  I googled it and found a Christian Church that was inviting the community to a Christian Seder.  It was held in the home of one of the members.  It was one of the most beautiful presentations of the Gospel of Jesus Christ I had ever experienced.

We started going to that church and when the Pastor mentioned the Seder for Passover, the following year, felt a jump in my spirit.  I had to host a Passover at my house.  But, mine was a Passover seder with a purpose.  We invited our Jewish friends, many of them.  

I poured my heart into this celebration; white table cloths, kosher food, kosher wine, seder plate (honey and apples, bitter herbs, shank bone), lots of flowers.  It was gorgeous.  I wanted these Jewish friends to be wowed by the effort, and feel special.  I believed that in a beautiful setting they would relax and open their hearts to the Gospel.  

We had three holocaust survivors with their spouses join us.  As our Pastor once again impressed me with an amazing presentation of the Gospel while staying close to the scriptures and Jewish tradition, these people were mesmerized.  All six of them accepted communion that evening, when it was offered.

After dinner they called our Pastor over and asked questions and listened intently to the answers. 

 They are now in heaven.  And I say heaven because I believe that Seder dinner was not about the food and the flowers but about the Gospel, the true food for our souls.

As Jesus followers, our most treasured memories will be those times when we gave the Gospel, or were used by the Holy Spirit as an instrument, for the lost to hear about the beautiful, sacrificial love of Jesus Christ.

This is such a special season.  Go tell someone about Jesus today.  

Matthew 28:19-20

April 13,2025

Love thy enemy!  This is probably one of the hardest verses in the Bible, to understand and to follow..

Matthew 5:43-44, Jesus instructs, "You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you," emphasizing a higher standard of love and forgiveness than simply loving those who love you. 

Back in 2007 former president Barrack Obama gave his first speech announcing his candidacy for US president.  He announced that Americans had to sacrifice, eat less, drive smaller cars etc.  It was a Marxist aligned speech, very reminiscent of the speech Fidel Castro gave in Cuba, before taking power and destroying the once beautiful and successful island.  This first speech disappeared.  I think they quickly realized that it wouldn't sit well with most Americans, so in February 2007 he made his official speech, with a much lighter message.

My nature is to forgive and give people grace.  However, the name of Barrack Obama became a trigger and hearing his voice was like scratching my nails on a chalk board.  Hate just filled my heart.  I warned everyone that was around me.  I spoke to the Hispanics around me about his socialist /communist idealogy.  I tried to convey my concern over Obamas abortion, and moral liberal stand to my American friends.  Very few listened. 

The day Obama became our President, I man I barely knew walked into my office congratulating me because, "our man won". I flipped.  I jumped from my chair, grabbed him, thankfully my husband jumped in to rescue me and him.

You see, I wasn't born in the US.  I came to this country, as a child, running away from socialism, communism.  I was terrified that I would live that psychological torture again.  The Obama presidency shook me to my core.  I no longer felt safe.  America was not safe.  American people were no longer in control.   I hated Barrack Obama and everyone around him.

I keep telling you that following Jesus is a journey.  Maybe that's because that's my personal experience.  I can read the Word over and over but it's until I live out the word that it finally registers in my spirit.

God says he never lives us, or forsakes us.  He didn't leave me to fester in my hate.  A few years into Obama's Presidency the Lord gave me three Dreams.  They were slightly different but the same theme.  President Obama and Michelle were at my house and I was cooking and then we were eating, while we discussed politics.  I don't remember the actual conversation.   What I do remember is the feeling, I didn't hate him.  By the time I woke up on the third day, from my third dream, the feeling of hate was gone.  I still hated his policies but I wasn't burdened by personal hate towards him.  I was now able to pray and even bless my enemy.  Ephesians 6:12 "our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms."

Today, we turn on the news and there is so much hate.  Our country is divided,

The Word tells us a house divided can I stand, Mark 3:25.  We need to unite.

How do we do that?  We follow the instructions Jesus gave us, love and pray for your enemy!

Maybe your enemy won't change, but your heart will.

April 12,2025

I love technology! Wait, I am terrible with technology.  My hubby has to click and fix and recover for me constantly.  What I actually love is information, learning.  Once upon a time, before Google, I would actually schedule time at a public library so that I could research the list of questions I had come up with since my last visit. 

 I am so grateful for technology. I love Google searches, my car, my phone, my air conditioner, and my gas stove.  Wow, I am thankful for so many things many take for granted.  

God made us in His image, and likeness, Genesis 1:27.  Like our God we are creators.  Think about where we would be without the genius, and creative men that have brought us all the comforts and ease of life we experience today!  

And yet, no matter what man has created, no matter what their personal intentions were that have brought us to this point. Technology is a double edge sword.  A 2021 statistic suggested there are 50 million people suffering from modern day slavery.

An estimate suggests 38% of that are children.  Since 1980 there has been an estimated 1.6 Billion abortions worldwide.  At an average 720,000 people commit suicide yearly.

If technology has changed our lives in such drastic and wonderful ways, why are we in such moral and cultural decline? 

Technology can be a wonderful thing but it is also being used for evil.

I think the answer lies with the first sin.

Genesis 2:16-17“Of every tree of the garden you may freely eat; but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die.”  Then James 3:17 explains: "But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere." 

We have advanced in knowledge but have abandoned the wisdom that comes from above.

When using technology let's be sure that we are using His wisdom, so that we can enjoy its benefits and Still walk in the truth and strength of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

April 11,2025

Earlier I wrote about the Dow Jones, the crazy roller coaster it's been on.

I explained why I think Trump's tariff approach is important to keep our country from collapsing under the weight of our staggering debt.

Did you know, the Bible gives us prophecies regarding the future of the world?

There is much revealed about what we call the End Days.  The days before the return of Jesus to the Earth to rule and reign.  One of those prophecies is regarding what many call the New World Order.

Daniel 7:23 ".....there shall be a fourth kingdom on earth, which shall be different from all the kingdoms, and it shall devour the whole earth, and trample it down, and break it to pieces."

Most of us believe we are very close to the end of this age, and this and many other prophecies are being revealed.  We have been on the road to this totalitarian uniting of various powers into a final dictatorial ruler.

We actually have achieved the infrastructure for this totalitarian system, through technology.

But, in order to unite the world the US cannot be a superpower.  We can't be the richest nation in the world.  We certainly cannot be exceptional.  For this totalitarian utopia all countries need to be suffering so that their answer of unity can be accepted.

As we have discussed, humanity has free will so God is not pulling a bunch of strings to bring these prophecies to fruition.  Humanity has been a willing participant in this apocalyptic future that awaits us.

     Denial is at the forefront of this   mission to unite the world under one leader.  Deny that there is a God.  Deny God's creation of heaven, earth and everything in it.  If you admit that God exists then you are accountable for your actions.   You can demean humanity to fit within the humanistic belief that it's survival of the fittest.  Only the chosen should survive.  The Earth is overpopulated therefore let's kill using abortion, vaccines, climate control, pandemics etc.

Instead, Jesus commands us to take care of even the least of these.  He cares and loves all of humanity.

Whoever these people are, the Deep state; now thought to be the three letter agencies in the US government, with the supervision and handling of the super rich and elite, they have an insatiable desire for more and more power.  Power over the whole earth.

What these oligarchs don't understand is that there is a bigger plan they don't understand and that plan is for one of them to become the ruler over all.  This one ruler the Bible calls the antichrist or the beast.

Don't be fooled by what they say. For that day will not come until there is a great rebellion against God and the man of lawlessness [sin] is revealed—the one who brings destruction.” (2 Thessalonians 2:3 NLT).

But God shall not be mocked.

I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True. With justice he judges and wages war. His eyes are like blazing fire, and on his head are many crowns. He has a name written on him that no one knows but he himself. He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and his name is the Word of God. The armies of heaven were following him, riding on white horses and dressed in fine linen, white and clean. Coming out of his mouth is a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations. 'He will rule them with an iron scepter.' He treads the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God Almighty. On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written: King of kings and Lord of lords." (verses 11-16)"And I saw an angel standing in the sun, who cried in a loud voice to all the birds flying in midair, 'Come, gather together for the great supper of God, so that you may eat the flesh of kings, generals, and the mighty, of horses and their riders, and the flesh of all people, free and slave, great and small.'" (verses 17-18)"Then I saw the beast and the kings of the earth and their armies gathered together to wage war against the rider on the horse and his army. But the beast was captured, and with it the false prophet who had performed the signs on its behalf. With these signs he had deluded those who had received the mark of the beast and worshiped its image. The two of them were thrown alive into the fiery lake of burning sulfur. The rest were killed with the sword coming out of the mouth of the rider on the horse, and all the birds gorged themselves on their flesh."  Revelation 19:11-21

April 10,2025

How many of us are looking at the Dow Jones Index numbers at least five times a day.  It's a little bit of an obsession.  Not many of us are invested in the stock market but most of us have retirement plans that will be affected.  How do we digest what is happening?

I was working with China before most Americans even knew that was possible.

I have first hand knowledge of China's ability to reverse engineer American products, and succed.  Eventually,  making American companies unable to compete with Chinese imports in the US market.

I was sitting in a conference, when George Bush Sr., tried to convince us how wonderful NAFTA was going to be for America.  I knew then, he was wrong.  The day the company I worked for fired every manufacturing employee because our manufacturing had been moved to Mexico was one of the toughest days of my life, and confirmed what I already knew, America was in trouble. 

I experienced firsthand a decline in commitment and passion for the work from both sides.. employee and employer alike.  Dead were the days when generations of families worked for the same company with dedication and pride.  It was all about the bottom line and the check at the end of the week.

All these years later, we know our technologies have been stolen, our manufacturing is gone.  For most families the American dream is dead.  

I know these days are rough.  They certainly have been for me.  What the Trump administration is doing is necessary, if we are to survive as a Nation.

America has been taken advantage of by the whole world, friends and foe alike.

As a result, we have become a nation of debtors, we have a 36 Trillion dollar debt as a nation, and we have a 1.2 Trillion dollar debt in personal loans.  Those are such staggering numbers.  This level of debt is economically and morally irresponsible.   But, this I know..

As Americans we either forgot, or never learned that the Bible tells us in Provers 22:7 "The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender."

Seriously, how in the world did we get into this debt abyss...?

Jesus told us, to love our neighbors as we love ourselves.  As a Nation have we loved ourselves, our children and future generations, when we have turned ourselves into slaves, while giving to the rest of the world, even our worst enemies, with open hands?

In Matthew 10:16 "be wise as serpents and harmless as a dove."  Jesus is instructing his followers to be wise and perceptive enough to anticipate danger while being innocent as a dove, maintaining a pure heart and a gentle spirit. This verse instructs us to find a balance between shrewd and harmless. Can our leaders apply this verse today.  Can the Trump administration win this Tariff war using wisdom and shrewdness while causing no harm?  Not sure about harm but I can guarantee some pain!

The truth is, it has taken 30 years to get here, it's going to take a while to get out of this economic mess we find ourselves in. But, the alternative I believe would be total collapse.

I can think of only two things we can do.  First, let's be grateful that we have leaders that understand the precarious position we are in.  Second, pray without seizing for the God's Grace and Mercy to be upon our land.

April 9,2025

I was raised in an atmosphere of spiritual fear.  I was very aware of the spiritual forces around us that want to harm us.  Unfortunately,  I didn't have a Biblical framework of spiritual matters, nor did I know Jesus and the power He has over all our affairs, in the natural and in the spiritual.  The first time I visited a Christian Church, while still in the parking lot, I begged for two things, for the fear to stop, and for peace.  (Funny, as I didn't really know He could or would deliver me.)

As I walked through the doors,  that first Easter Sunday Service, I was overwhelmed by a sense of peace.  It was truly supernatural.  I was in a very dark place in my life, so the moment I walked out of the church building I would feel attacked.  Only those of you that have experienced oppression, can understand what I am talking about.  This was a Baptist church, so there was no talk of spiritual warfare or the demonic.  But, I did learn 2 Timothy 1-7, "For God does not give us the spirit of fear, but love, power and a sound mind.  That verse become my battle cry, and the cure to my fear and turmoil.

Did you know that the Bible tells us 365 times, (depending on translation it could be as much as 400 times) Fear Not.  In the New Testament alone, 78 times, the Lord tells us not to fear.

If we are warned so many times not to fear, it's because will will have many opportunities to experience fear!

Isaiah 41:10 - "Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.  If you have received Jesus as Lord and Savior, He is with you!

In Jesus, we don't even have to be afraid of death, Hebrews 2:14-15 - "Inasmuch then as the children have partaken of flesh and blood, He Himself likewise shared in the same, that through death He might destroy him who had the power of death, that is, the devil, and release those who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage."

If you have read the news, or even watched a nighttime "comedian" lately, our stock market is crashing forever, the Trump administration is cutting social security and all assistance programs etc, etc... fear, fear, fear.   But Jesus tells us,  "Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Isn't life more than food and the body more than clothing?" Matthew 6:25.

If you are afraid of the future, don't be.  He holds your future.Joshua 1:9 - "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."

We all go through trials, and tribulations, no one is exempt but know that no matter what you're going through, or fearing today, we have promises which you can proclaim, Psalm 23:4 - "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me."

So, no matter what you are fearing today, God is telling you why you should not fear. Again, the Lord is telling us to be courageous and fear nothing, only Fear Him.

Don't fear economic problems, health issues, your enemies, spreading the Gospel, not even death .. But, how do we do that? We believe in Him.  He will not forsake us.  He will help us.  We recite and write his Words full of promise in our hearts! After all, He is the Creator of heaven and earth who loves us so much He sent His own son to be sacrificed for us.  Believe that and the rest is part of our journey!!!

April 8,2025

Are we praying for famous people?  People you see in the news every day, politicians, entertainers, media etc.  I do.  But, I feel the Holy Spirit has given me a heart for a few of those people, and I make an effort to pray for them every day.

Elon Musk is one of those people.  I pray that his eyes, and his heart will be opened to hear the Gospel with his heart and soul, not only his ears.  I pray that you too will help me pray for him.  A few years ago I didn't care for the man, today the Lord has given me a special love for him.  

If Elon Musk doesn't get saved, and the Lord starts guiding him, we are in trouble.  Elon is a dangerous genius.

I have always enjoyed listening and learning about fringe subjects.  20 years ago I started hearing about transhumanism, an improved human.  In the past 3 years we have heard more about transgender than almost any other subject.  Transgenderism has been the first step in "liberating" our culture from the idea that we are somehow special so that transhumanism will be acceptable, well received and even an exciting prospect.

Have you heard of Elon's Neurolink, a neurotechnology company working on brain-computer interfaces?  The first implant was done in January 2024, in a patient, paralyzed below the shoulders.  The plant gave the patient the ability to play chess with his mind.  Later updates indicate Neurolink has been able to restore motor function in paralyzed patients using this implant.  What an amazing medical success.  Elon's vision is to achieve "symbiosis with artificial intelligence" creating a generalized brain interface.

The question we need to ask ourselves today is, what is a human being?

God sent Jesus to live as a man and die for man, that humanity could be redeemed.  

What would it take for us to forfeit our humanity, an implant maybe.   What will humanity exchange for the power to be superhuman?

Can the future of humanity be the loss of the free gift of salvation,  the promise of redemption through Jesus Christ . 

Matthew 24:22 Jesus tells us, "and except those days are shortened, there would be no flesh be saved: but for the elect's sake those days shall be shortened."  

Could this be what he was referring to???

April 7,2025

JESUS IS NOT A SOCIALIST

I hear this all the time, Jesus was a socialist.

Did He command us to feed and clothes the needy, yes!  In Matthew 25:35-40 Jesus explains "when I was hungry you gave me food, when I was thirsty, you gave me to drink, and when I was naked, you gave me clothes to wear.  When I was sick, you took care of me, and when I was in jail, you visited me." .. "When did we give you something to eat or drink?  When did we welcome you as a stranger or give you clothes to wear?"  Jesus replied, "Whenever you did it for the least of these, you did it for me."

What is Socialism?  Socialism is an economic and political philosophy! So, the question lies in knowing whom Jesus is talking to when he commands, to feed and take care of the needy.  

As we study the Old Testament we see God shaping a Nation, a People  giving them complete instructions on how to act and behave within the constraints of that Nation.  

The tithe, a tenth of the ones produced every third year, went to Levites, so they could care for themselves and the needy.

Deuteronomy 18:1-4.

First point is that the collective ten percent were given to the church (Levites) because they had no land, second point is that if you were hungry you were to pick the grain yourself.  You still have to work for it.

In the New Testament Jesus enters the picture and He shifts the focus inward. Jesus comes to Earth as a man to be sacrificed so that we could be redeemed!  He came for us Individually, offering personal redemption and transforming hearts through faith and grace.

Not once did Jesus promote or even insinuate that government or politicians should in any way allocate resources, take from some and give to others.  

Paul tells us in 2 Corinthians 9:7 "each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver".

We can even go further... 

2 Thessalonian 3:10 Paul tells us, "the one who is unwilling to work should not eat".

Here Paul is stressing personal responsibility.  

In Paul's writing to Timothy he is even calling the congregation to identify a true widow in need of help, and those that have families, and don't need to be a burden to the church.

So, to reiterate.  There is no Biblical stand for the idea that Jesus was in any way a socialist.

In fact, He is holding us to a higher standard.  Don't wait for the government to help the needy.  You, go feed and clothe the needy.  You,  tithe to your God-honoring church so that work can go even further!

And on that day .. He will say. 'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s joy".

April 6,2025

God is speaking, are you listening?

In Genesis we see that God spoke the Universe, the Earth and everything in it into existence.  Later, we are told that God would visit in the Garden of Eden in the cool of the morning with Adam and Eve.

After the fall of Adam and Eve God continues to speak to humanity.  He speaks to Cain, "where is your brother Abel?" Genesis 4:10.  Still in Genesis God instructs Noah to build an ark, to save humanity from the flood coming to earth.

And then later, gives him instructions, to be fruitful and multiply to repopulate the earth.

God continues to speak to His chosen and through is Prophets.  After the prophet Malachi we are told there are 400 years of silence from God, and then He sends Jesus to earth as His Sacrifice, and voice to humanity.  We even have God speaking after John baptizes Jesus in the Jordan River "This is my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased."

Two thousand years later most believers will tell you we don't need to hear from God because we have the written word.

That is true!  God left this beautiful love letter for us, that is truly life changing and life sustaining.  But, Jesus told us He was leaving that he would send us an advocate, a helper, the Holy Spirit, the third person of the Trinity John 16:7.  As part of the Trinity he has all the attributes of the Father, the Godhead. The Holy Spirit is the gift Jesus gave us.  He loves us, teaches us, guides us, convicts, he  comforts and He intercedes for us.

So, as believers we know that God is talking to us.  Whether you know you have heard His audible voice (which most people don't hear or refuse to admit), or the quiet still voice of the Holy Spirit, or through His written Word, He speaks.  

He is telling us to walk circumspectly, the narrow path set before us.  He is warning us against falling in the many traps of the enemy.  He is telling us to keep our hearts pure.  He instructs us to keep looking up because His redemption is near...  Maranatha

April 5,2025

A new 2025 poll is out.  2.6 Billion people around the world claim to be born again Christians. That number represents 32.6% of the 8.2 Billion people in the world.  That sounds wonderful, but not so fast.  In recent decades many Christians have abandoned nearly all the core teachings of Christianity, to give space for emotional and palatable belief systems.  Over half of American Christians reject the Bible as the inspired Word of God, inerrant, and infallible. This is terrifying.  Matthew 7:21 "not everyone that says Lord, Lord will enter the Kingdom of heaven, but only the ones that do the will of my father, that is in heaven."  How many of those 2.6 Billion people could be turned away by Jesus!?

How has this tragedy that will impact so many souls happen?  This is difficult for me personally, to explain, as I love the church.  And my belief is that we do whatever it takes to get non-believers to a church pew.  However, it the church's fault!  Many blame it on the seeker friendly church, I don't.  I love to fellowship while waiting for my coffee and love concert style worship music.  

I love a church with lots of people.  The problem is deeper.  I believe it's Pastors that see their positions as a career and not a calling.  They don't have the Biblical backbone to stand up to a corrupt culture that tells us that a man can be a woman, it doesn't matter who you love, we can be a nation without borders and the most sacrilegious, you can choose to murder our babies!

Where is the Holy Spirit in these churches.  Simple, he is not!  These Pastors are leading these churches with satanic lies, and emotional babble.

If you are part of one of these churches, leave for the sake of your soul.

If you are a Pastor, repent and pray for the Holy Spirit to guide you starting today!

In John 14:15 Jesus says, if you love me you will obey me.  True love for Jesus means you will walk in obedience to his teaching and commandments as a natural overflow of that love!!!

April 3,2025

Part 2

Previously,  I outlined why I believe in the Rapture now let's analyze my believe in dispensationalism:

Dispensationalism is a theological framework that interprets the Bible as dividing history into distinct periods or during which God interacts with humanity in different ways. In Ecclesiastes 3:1 We read, for everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose...

How do we get here?

1. Literal Interpretation of Scripture:
   A literal reading of the Bible, particularly when it comes to prophecy and eschatology (end-times events).  Passages in the Old Testament, such as God’s promises to Abraham (Genesis 12:1-3, 15:18-21) about land and a nation for Israel, which took place May 1948, should be taken at face value rather than spiritualized or applied solely to the Church. 

2. Israel and the Church—have distinct roles and destinies. Passages like Romans 11, where Paul discusses Israel’s future restoration and a temporary "hardening" until the "fullness of the Gentiles" comes in (Romans 11:25-26). Conflating Israel and the Church (as in replacement theology) ignores these distinctions and the ongoing relevance of God’s covenants with Israel. After all, can we trust God's covenant with us if he forgets the covenant He made with His chosen people?

1. Progressive Revelation:
   God reveals His will progressively across time, with each dispensation (e.g., Innocence, Law, Grace).  In Hebrews 1:1-2 ("God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways").  The transition from the Mosaic Law to the age of grace demonstrate this pattern. Each dispensation ends in human failure, highlighting the need for God’s ultimate redemption.

2. Eschatological Consistency:
   Dispensationalism details end-times framework—including the Rapture, the Tribulation, and the Millennial Kingdom.  Passages like 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 (the Rapture) and Revelation 20:1-6 (the 1,000-year reign of Christ) align with a literal timeline that separates God’s dealings with the Church (raptured before the Tribulation) and Israel (restored during the Millennium). 

3. Historical Precedent:
   Early Church writings (e.g., Justin Martyr or Irenaeus) offer distinctions in God’s dealings with humanity.  Dispensionalism is a refinement of biblical truth rather than a modern invention, rooted in a return to scriptural fundamentals.

Dispensationalism offers a clear Israel-Church distinction, and a structured view of history and prophecy, that reflects the Bible’s narrative and God’s unchanging character.

April 2,2025

Part 1.

This evening a spent over an hour listening to a very popular podcast, listening to a Pastor attacking the theology of Dispensionalism and the Rapture.  I must admit I was irritated by the interview.  All these interviews, present us, believers in the imminence of the Rapture and dispensionalism, as fools who are simply misled by foolish Pastors.  They always present Darby as the investor of this made up theology.

And yet, when I read the scriptures it seems so clear to me!  

1 Thessalonians 4:16-17Text: "For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever.

Thessalonians 5:9

 "For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ.

( Tribulation is a time of God’s wrath (Revelation 6-19), and since believers are promised exemption from wrath, the rapture must occur before it begins.

Revelation 3:10Text: "Since you have kept my command to endure patiently, I will also keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come on the whole world to test the inhabitants of the earth.

John 14:1-3Text: "Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.

2 Thessalonians 2:1-8  "And now you know what is holding him back, so that he may be revealed at the proper time. For the secret power of lawlessness is already at work; but the one who now holds it back will continue to do so till he is taken out of the way.

1 Corinthians 15:51-52Text: "Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed—in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed.

Luke 21:36

"Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able to escape all that is about to happen, and that you may be able to stand before the Son of Man."

Titus 2:13

"While we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ."

Critics of the Rapture say the Word doesn't appear in the scriptures.  Well, Bible and Trinity don't appear either so do we stop believing in the scriptures and the doctrine of the Trinity?  Of course not.

A friend recently told me we can't believe in the Rapture because the disciples suffered such horrible deaths, why should we be spared suffering and The Tribulation.  My quick response was, what about the hundreds of years that Christians in the US have lived and died without the Tribulation and persecution.  Will those believers be sent to hell for just a little while so they too won't be spared?

From the Beginning we see God's mercy on His people.  God has never punished rigtousness (we have our righteousness in Jesus).  The pain followers of Jesus have suffered has been in the hands of non-believers.  Why would believers suffer under God's wrath and the wrath of the Lamb during the Tribulation.  This does not align with the message of Love and Grace throughout the scriptures.

Personally, I am sticking to my Rapture theology, eagerly awaiting the blessed hope.

April 1,2025

My husband and I were having a debate today.  The question is, how do we bring you truth that surpasses all the denominational barriers, while holding strong to Biblical Truth? A quick Google search tells me there are 200 denominations in the US, and 45,000 globally.  Is it pure insanity, or is it a testimony to our sinful nature, humanity’s pride (our desire to do it our way)?  So, which denomination is correct.  Who is going to heaven and who is being fooled by religious dogma?  

Let's explore.  Lets look at the most famous verse in the Bible, John 3:16

For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.  

Roman's 10:9-10. If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.

These verses give us a solid foundation, The Truth.

. God loves us.  

.  He loves everyone on the whole wide world. 

.  He gave us His Son (not a son but His only begotten Son)

. He gave us the free will to believe or not believe

    ( Believe means to accept as true, be sure it's true, to have confidence.)

. We must declare that we believe His life, death an resurrection

. We must then make Him Lord of our lives

.  In Jesus, we will not die

.  We will have eternal, everlasting life.

We can argue until we reach eternity all the other doctrinal issues of our faith but these 2 verses tell us the truth about salvation and how to get to heaven. We must believe in God, we must believe He sent His only Son who died and was resurrected that we could be redeemed. We don't only accept him as redeemer/savior but make Him Lord of our lives.

 The rest is a journey of faith, a journey of learning, a journey of obedience.  Which, I pray you will allow me to explore with you as we walk on this journey together.

March 31,2025

IN MATTHEW 24:3 Jesus was asked what would be the sign of His coming and the end of the age. He gives us a list of signs. Verse 7, He tells us, there will be famines and earthquakes in various places. This morning Thailand had a 7.7 Earthquake that was very shallow and we saw buildings crumbling to the ground, while people ran for their lives. Terrifying images. It is believed thousands can be dead and many injured. I don't think these tragedies are God's judgment. I believe God is warnings the world to turn to Him, through Jesus' work of redemption, because the end of the age is here. Lets pray for the Lord's mercy upon these people. Let's pray that God's Glory shines through and the pain these people are suffering. That He will soften the hearts of many to turn to Christ, whose arms are open to receive them! Remember, today is the Day of Salvation.

March 30,2025

As former Governor Mike Huckabee is in the process of being nominated by the Senate to be ambassador to Israel I have read many ridiculous articles about his faith and his belief system. Yes, Mike Huckabee, as we do in this ministry, supports Israel. He supports Israel's right to the land, once called Palestine. But, if we go further in time we know it was also called Judea and was given to the Jewish People by God himself Genesis 12:1-3. As believers, we know His promises are everlasting! Israel belongs to the Jews and they have the God given right to be there and to protect land and people. This understanding and support of Biblical History has nothing to do with any dominion theology, which is a ideology that Christians aim to establish a nation governed completely by Christians, following Biblical laws, in Israel.. again, ridiculous. The other claim is that we believe in the Rapture (and event whereby Jesus will take all His followers out of the Earth) but we somehow need Israel for that to happen. In these articles some truth is covered but the heart or the essence of our faith is missing. The Rapture is imminent. We don't need Israel for this event to happen, we just need for the Father to set the date. We support Israel because we believe the Word of God that the land belongs to Israel and we support Israel because in Genesis 12:3 God told Abraham, “ I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse...