September 10

How long are we going to continue to ignore what is going on? The criminal government is not even hiding its intentions anymore. Have we become so ignorant and dumbed down that we are oblivious to what is happening? I’m appalled that the rights of free citizens are being trampled upon. People who ask questions are being maligned and labeled. It’s sick! This new mandate that Joe Biden, resident of the White House, is rolling out is the next phase of the plan that criminal leaders are pushing worldwide. We can see the culprits at work! Maybe you can’t see it, but believe me, sinister actors are pulling the strings of their puppets, and they are doing a dance. It’s not what you think it’s about; they want control! This new mandate is to see how far they can push us without us fighting back. I don’t care where you stand on the v*c*in*, we are now fighting for liberty, and it will take all of us to be in the fight to win. If yesterday's announcement didn’t wake you up, I don’t know what will. 

for anything that becomes visible is light. Therefore it says, “Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.” Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Ephesians 5:14-16

September 9

One of the joys God has given me is a love for bird watching. I know most of their names, and my kids know them too; we spent a summer identifying them when they were small. I have two feeders set up in my yard, and it is frequented by the usual; I have a whole family of cardinals that feast on it daily. Occasionally, and to my surprise, I’m blessed with the presence of a smaller red bird with black wings. It’s called a Vermilion Flycatcher. It is not a common bird seen in our area. I caught a glimpse of it one day and felt honored that I had the privilege of spotting it. I feel like it’s, as my friend would say, getting a kiss from the King. Of course, I ask God to let me see it again; and he usually does. But yesterday, I was sitting on my porch, and that little bird came to visit and stayed a while; what a sweet gift from a Father who loves me! Today, I want to remind you to stay aware of the little things the LORD does for you and show him your appreciation. He gave us beauty to behold in his creation, so take the time to soak it all in.

“But ask the beasts, and they will teach you; the birds of the heavens, and they will tell you; or the bushes of the earth, and they will teach you; and the fish of the sea will declare to you. Who among all these does not know that the hand of the LORD has done this? In his hand is the life of every living thing and the breath of all mankind. Job 12:7-10

September 8

As we get closer to the twentieth anniversary of 9/11, I pray for a revelation of the truth and that the real perpetrators who committed such heinous acts of war and killed innocent people receive their deserved justice. I have so many unanswered questions about this event.

I had two babies in middle school and two in elementary, and after seeing the television version of what had happened, I hurried to gather my little chicks under my wings. Fear had gripped our nation because we had no idea what had happened or why anyone would do such a thing. Now, though much of the truth is there for all to see, it is still hidden under the cloak of darkness. No matter what, we know this was a sinister act perpetrated by Satan and his minions and that unsuspecting people lost their lives. As our memories kick into overdrive this week, let’s remember all the people who lost their lives on that day and the war that followed, and pray for the families who will once again mourn the loss of their loved ones because we know they will relive those moments in time once again. God bless the American people and pray that he brings the actual guilty party to justice!

When justice is done, it is a joy to the righteous but terror to evildoers. Proverbs 21:15

September 7

I’m finally moving into Timothy. We know that the books that Paul wrote are God-breathed, but if you needed confirmation, you would find it in the greeting at the beginning of 1 Timothy.

To Timothy, my true child in the faith: Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord. 1 Timothy 1:2

You’ve got to wonder who would have the nerve to write a greeting from “God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord,” without permission from God himself. Paul was God-fearing, and he wouldn’t compromise his position in the Lord by speaking for him unless he knew that God had allowed it. If you doubt that the New Testament scripture is an institution of God, he gives us confirmation in this verse. Ultimately, the Holy Spirit is our companion when it comes to holding onto our faith in God and his Word. If you have any doubts, I suggest you have a conversation with God because your foundation in Jesus may be compromised and it may be possible you don’t know him.

September 6

Tonight at dark, the Feast of Trumpets begins. It’s the official beginning of the new year, according to the Word of God. It’s the trumpet call, or 100 blasts of the Shofar, and represents a time for each one of us to repent, seek forgiveness from those we’ve wronged, and return items we’ve borrowed, etc. 

Those who’ve accepted Jesus as their Savior are Israel; we’ve been adopted in, but some are natural branches who are of Jewish descent. We are no longer Gentiles but sons and daughters of the Most High God.

And the LORD spoke to Moses, saying, “Speak to the people of Israel, saying, In the seventh month, on the first day of the month, you shall observe a day of solemn rest, a memorial proclaimed with blast of trumpets, a holy convocation. You shall not do any ordinary work, and you shall present a food offering to the LORD.” Leviticus 23:23-25

I find it very interesting that this year it begins on Labor Day, a day when many people have the day off. I pray that during this year's high holiday festivals, the Lord makes good on his promises to hold to account the enemy who has tormented us for thousands of years. Will this year be the day of reckoning? Will Jesus return for the harvest? Only God knows, but I pray it’s during this season. A girl can dream, but God can fulfill that dream. Make this evening a solemn event, and follow through with the requirements of the upcoming feast.

September 5

Teresa’s Cooking Tips. I’m a label checker. I check the ingredients in everything. I never knew there was a difference between soda water and club soda until I checked the label, they taste the same to me, but club soda has something added besides plain water and carbonation. It’s probably harmless, but why add it if it doesn’t change the taste. Sometimes I check the packaging of things I like so I can replicate it using fresh items. Now, instead of buying canned and dried soup to add to a pot roast, I make my own because it’s easy, and I can be sure of what I’m eating. I’m not perfect when it comes to this, but at least I’m taking some precautions regarding what I put in my body. If a product doesn’t come with a list of verified ingredients, I don’t put it in my body. And, the fewer ingredients, the better. I certainly don’t take the word of a celebrity who’s probably not even eating the product they are trying to sell. If someone tells you they had a bad reaction, it’s perhaps a sign for you to take notice and avoid that product. My advice is to check the labels and not eat it if you can’t read it; be wary of any product that avoids listing its ingredients.

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. 2 Thessalonians 3:18

September 4

God always wins. He will let a twisted generation reap the rewards of their own self-loathing for a time, but when he’s ready, those who side with evil practices will find themselves inhabiting the kingdom of Satan. Finally, after a long-fought battle, Texas has become a beacon of light in the fight against child sacrifices, and it’s no longer an option for those who failed to make the right choice before conception. In this modern time where technology gives proof of life, there is no excuse for denying that a baby grows and develops inside the womb. Now that Texas has the legal wording acceptable to the Supreme Court, I believe more states will follow suit. Currently, there is one less way to control the population as part of Satan’s evil scheme. 

Those who know me know this is an issue that is near and dear to my heart. I put into action my support for women who made the hard decision to choose life by volunteering, financially supporting, and eventually working in a pregnancy care center. Not only did we help those who were pregnant, but we helped women who regretted their decision and offered post-abortion recovery counseling. 

God lets us wallow in our evil ways for a time, but time is up! I expect to see more of his intervention in other areas of abomination.

The coming of the lawless one is by the activity of Satan with all power and false signs and wonders, and with all wicked deception for those who are perishing, because they refused to love the truth and so be saved. Therefore God sends them a strong delusion, so that they may believe what is false, in order that all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness. 2 Thessalonians 2:9-12

September 3

We are nearing the end of a big project. Richard has had to jump through hoops for the county on one minor issue that’s holding up the final approval so that we can get the certificate of occupancy. He’s burnt out, and I’m ready to get people moved in and take a vacation. Thankfully, there are an abundance of people moving to Florida every day and few homes available. We are on the right side of the supply and demand issue; we know this to be true because both of our phones ring daily with people needing a place to live, and, though it looks finished, we still consider the project a job site and people trespass regularly hoping to fill a vacancy. It’s been a good thing and has kept him busy, but he’s ready to be done, and I’m ready for him to be done too! Soon we will be putting out the “for rent” sign and giving people a new lease on life. 

There are still vacancies in the Kingdom of Heaven, and Jesus has put out his sign for all to come. Don’t stop telling people about him because the world seems too crazy; they need Jesus now more than ever! Unlike us waiting for the project to be done before we rent, Jesus is preparing a place for us now, and space is still available. Bring your friends and family; you don’t want them to be left behind.

To this end we always pray for you, that our God may make you worthy of his calling and may fulfill every resolve for good and every work of faith by his power, so that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you, and you in him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ. 2 Thessalonians 1:11-12

September 2

If I were to label 2 Thessalonians chapter 1, I would call it “The Gift of Revenge!” As Christians, we gave up our power for vengeance, or at least we should have because there is no power greater than God’s and no justice more satisfying than the justice he seeks on our behalf. As this world gets crazier, you’ve got to wonder what he has planned for these creeps who are steadily taking over the world and imprisoning people with fear and atrocities. Will their fortunes be ripped away? Will they and everyone complicit in their scheme be brought up on charges and hung by the neck until they are dead for all to see? Or will he open up the ground and swallow them up like Korah, who came against Moses and Aaron? All of Israel got to see it, and God used them as an example to instill fear where it belongs, of God. Whatever he intends, know that he is in charge; the pieces will fall into place and have the most significant impact because he is more just than any human. If you have been wronged and have yet to receive justice, you can be sure that God has not forgotten. Stay patient; it will happen.

since indeed God considers it just to repay with affliction those who afflict you, and to grant relief to you who are afflicted as well as to us, when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven with his mighty angels in flaming fire, inflicting vengeance on those who do not know God and on those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus. 2 Thessalonians 1:6-8

September 1

We don’t know when Jesus is coming; we only have an idea of the times because of what we hear. With so many atrocities reported worldwide that point to tribulation, I feel we may be living in it, and his return is near. Just because it hasn’t touched you yet, doesn’t mean it’s not happening. 

The same bitten Apple that has brought knowledge of good and evil has done just that, given us the knowledge of good, which is Jesus, and evil which is Satan. The word of the Lord has spread about him, and people everywhere have access to the truth of who Jesus is. 

Persecutions have taken place; we hear about these all the time, but most recently in Afghanistan. According to reports, some have been martyred while others were destroyed while waiting to be rescued.

Lawlessness has increased in the private sector, but more fitting to this point is the increase of corruption in governments worldwide. Look at what they are doing to the people!

People have fallen out of love with Jesus to follow their passion for evil and the love of money and riches.

Television propaganda is trying to convince everyone that evil is good. We know better! Use your discernment.

So we wait patiently, knowing that whatever happens is for the best because God will bring the justice that we deserve through our Savior, Jesus!

They will suffer the punishment of eternal destruction, away from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of his might, when he comes on that day to be glorified in his saints, and to be marveled at among all who have believed, because our testimony to you was believed. 2 Thessalonians 1:9-10

August 31

The war we are in is not like any that has ever been fought in the history of the world. We can’t see the enemy, but they are hidden in plain sight, lurking around every corner. When God told Adam and Eve not to eat from the tree of knowledge of good and evil, he knew what would happen. And here we are, eating from that tree every day. It’s not a coincidence that my Apple computer’s logo has a bite out of it. If you look back on biblical wars, you will find that they won by relying solely on God and following his instructions. My favorite battle ended up not being a battle at all. Remember the story of Elisha in 1 Kings 6, surrounded by the Syrians? He prayed that they would be blinded. God answered his prayer, and Elisha led them into Samaria, then he prayed again that their eyes would be opened, and they saw that Israel surrounded them. No one was hurt! In fact, the King of Israel prepared a feast for them and sent them home. 

Though we cannot see our enemy, we know he’s there, so our best battle plan is to rely on God and follow his instructions. The following verses contain the instructions I love the most.

See that no one repays anyone evil for evil, but always seek to do good to one another and to everyone. Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:15-18

August 30

The waiting is hard. Discouragement sets in, and hope is lost. Don’t be moved by what’s going on right now; we are not part of this world; we are only ambassadors, our hope is in God through Jesus our Savior. Do not take your eyes off of him. What you are seeing played out is only a trick; deceitful lies to force you to look in a different direction; don’t fall for it. The enemy and his minions are up to no good and are drawing you away from the facts. Ask God to give you discernment and to open your eyes to the truth, so you are not led astray. 

For you are all children of light, children of the day. We are not of the night or of the darkness. So then let us not sleep, as others do, but let us keep awake and be sober. 1 Thessalonians 5:5-6

August 29

I took a little walk through history last night. I went back to the county I grew up in to help with my niece's bridal shower, held in an old train station. The entire time I live there, I never noticed it; I even worked across the street from it for a while. They redid it and made it into an event center, exposing all the old brick, polished the floors, and installed a kitchen. One of the fixtures brought back a flood of memories; it was the counter from an old drugstore that had, at one time, served ice cream. It still had all the soda fountain handles that I remember seeing as a child. When you hear some of those country songs talking about “my hometown,” you get the picture of this little blip on the road map.

My niece and I are both city girls born in the country. She had to travel home for her shower, only from a greater distance than me. It’s funny, though, for as long as I lived in the city, I still long for a country atmosphere. I think I love having the convenience of everything I need within minutes. I found out about Jesus and my quaint country town, and that’s something I can never forget. But, Jesus sent me off to teach me some new things and set me on the path he intended, and I am forever grateful for that. Even if you don’t have fond memories from your past, look again to see how Jesus purposely directed you to where you are now. There is always something good to look back on.

Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing. 1 Thessalonians 5:11

August 28

If we didn’t have the news or social media, we wouldn’t know about anything going on in the world. We may get letters from other parts of the world, like the letters sent by Paul to the different churches or through missionaries and people who travel. Unfortunately, most of what we hear is garbage, so we must use our discernment when listening to such. I pray God helps us all filter through what we hear and that we stand firm with courage until we get through these traumatic events. Those who have set their minds to destroy us will be the ones who get destroyed, and I hope I’m around to witness it! What they are doing to the people is outrageous and deserves punishment. The end is near, but it’s the end of them, not us!  The grace of God saves us through Jesus Christ! We have no end, only the beginning of something new and better. We will feast our eyes on Jesus and live with him for eternity. It doesn’t get any better than that.

It’s important to notice that this verse says “them,” not us!

While people are saying, “There is peace and security,” then sudden destruction will come upon them as labor pains come upon a pregnant woman, and they will not escape. 1 Thessalonians 5:3

August 27

I was on the interstate in Tampa yesterday, and the traffic came to an abrupt stop. My only concern was stopping quick enough, so I didn’t hit the car in front of me. Seconds later, I see a semi-truck swerving to go around me because I don’t even think he hit the brakes; he went speeding past me. An immediate sense of thankfulness washed over me because I realized God had protected me from possible death. My time was not up! Thank goodness. We do not control our birth nor our death; when your time is up, nothing is going to stop God from bringing you home. You have no control of your ending! Don’t live your life in fear; have faith that you are in God’s hands and on his time. You need only to make sure you have accepted Jesus as your savior, to secure your eternity with him.

For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep.1 Thessalonians 4:14

August 26

Occasionally, I will broach a cringe-worthy subject; today is one of those days. There is a problem across the world that you do not hear leaders discussing, and that is a crying shame. Children are being snatched and trafficked worldwide, and it seems to be happening in countries that have open borders like the USA. Children get separated from their parents, never to be seen again because they are being kidnapped and used in the sex trade industry. I can’t even imagine what is happening to their minds or if they will come out of it alive. I can tell you this, the crimes of these sick people will not go unpunished; they are pure evil! Man cannot do to the bodies or minds of these criminals what they deserve; only God can avenge the lives of these precious ones. God has a special place in his heart for children, and anyone who has harmed them will face things that you and I could never imagine, and they deserve it! Pray that this evil ends soon and that children can be children again.

For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you abstain from sexual immorality; 1 Thessalonians 4:3

that no one transgress and wrong his brother in this matter, because the Lord is an avenger in all these things, as we told you beforehand and solemnly warned you. 1 Thessalonians 4:6

August 25

Last night, I finished putting together the thank you gifts for my niece’s wedding shower on Saturday. Some extraordinary ladies in my hometown got together to honor her and her fiancé with an elegant party, and they invited me to participate. I live an hour away, so I had to think of a way to do my part, and putting together a sweet little gift was the least I could do. But, what motivated these ladies to spring into action? My motivation was that she is my family, so of course, I’m excited to get involved because I love her. Maybe it was God  who called on them to honor his beautiful daughter as she prepares to marry the man of her dreams. Whatever the motivation, it is commendable, and I pray God multiplies their blessings in heaven. As Christ-followers, let us be encouraged to offer the Father thanksgiving on behalf of those eager to help others, even in this case. Their participation will not go unnoticed, and I thank God for them. 

For what thanksgiving can we return to God for you, for all the joy that we feel for your sake before our God, 1 Thessalonians 3:9

August 24

Yesterday, I posted a very long devotional. In my heart, I know people won’t read it because it’s not short and sweet, but I’m okay with that. When God began a work in me to step outside my comfort zone and use my voice and words to help bring the “saved” to salvation, I didn’t ask him how he would do it or what I was to say. I rely on him to speak to me, and I follow his voice for cues to what he wants me to reveal. 

I do not write in the afternoon; it’s always before nine in the morning. So late Sunday afternoon, the Holy Spirit came upon me suddenly, and I began to write about true freedom in Christ. Hence the post from yesterday being unusually long. I asked for this assignment many years ago, and when he tells me to do something or not do something, I obey. When my post doesn’t get read, it’s of no concern to me; it’s God’s job to bring whoever he wants to hear. Though I do like it read, ultimately, it’s for God’s glory, not mine. Thanks for reading, my fellow evangels; it takes all of us to bring salvation to the world.

For our appeal does not spring from error or impurity or any attempt to deceive, but just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not to please man, but to please God who tests our hearts. 1 Thessalonians 2:3-4

August 23

Today’s post is long. Consider saving it for later if you don’t have time to read right now.

God’s idea of freedom is different than yours. Here is a list of reasons you may not be free:

1. You are still looking at your past with regret. You’ve made mistakes, and you cannot forgive yourself.

2. You blame others for your failure. 

3. You still hold your oppressors responsible for your condition. God will avenge you.

4. You are still making the same mistakes you made before you accepted Jesus.

5. You are held hostage by past trauma. You dwell on it and continue to relive it over and over in your mind.

6. You don’t move past rejection.

7. You make others responsible for your happiness. Only you can control your feelings.

8. You are fearful. Fear will paralyze you. False Evidence Appearing Real.  Fear is what we see in the news today. Take a break from the news.

9. You have little faith that your life will get better.

10. You reminisce about what could have been rather than moving on with what God has given you.

There are more, but that’s all I have for now.

Here are some ideas that will help you free your mind.

Pray and ask God how you are being held captive, then write down everything that comes to mind... even what doesn’t make sense. He will fill you in on the details as you begin praying about what he told you. I did this on the fly; I prayed, he answered, and I handled it with him then and there. Praying like this works well when on a long and lonely drive. It may be a good idea to ask God to give you recollection of any childhood trauma or events. Ask him to teach you how your life was shaped because of any issues he reveals. When you think you’ve unlocked all the chains, he will bring more things to mind, and that’s how you’ll know you’re on the right path. But remember, this is not a one-and-done type of prayer. It can take months to become free. You can only accomplish this through continuous prayer and a passionate relationship with the Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit. 

Just in case you think you don’t have any chains, you do. I didn’t know I had any, and when God started bringing things into my mind, I bawled like a baby. I can’t tell you how incredible it feels to be free, but you won’t know unless you make it a point to work on yourself. 

Word of warning, it will make you question everything. You will be set free from all the lies you’ve been taught or thought! Your mind will be free, because God will open your eyes.

for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control. 2 Timothy 1:7

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. Romans 12:2

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

For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery. Galatians 5:1

August 22

It’s sad to watch someone you helped lead to Christ turn back to their old ways. It makes you wonder if their conversion was genuine or if they became like the prodigal son that Jesus mentioned in the gospels who eventually turned around and came back. Whatever the case is, you cannot live their lives for them, but you can count on the promise that he will not lose even one. What then do we do? Rest assured that if the Holy Spirit drew them in, it would be he that brings them back. Don’t become overly concerned, but reach out to God and intercede for them, and leave the outcome to him. Ultimately, it is God who chooses; you are only the vessel he works through. God’s word will fall into place, and the truth will be revealed to them and brought into the light for them to see. You will then see a change of heart; they will be happy to return and ashamed that they ever turned away from him. Wait for it; it will happen.

For this reason, when I could bear it no longer, I sent to learn about your faith, for fear that somehow the tempter had tempted you and our labor would be in vain. 1 Thessalonians 3:5