May 13, 2023

It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God. If the signs of Jesus's return were only seen here in the United States, I would assume it was just one symptom, but if you look throughout the earth, you will see that every nation faces the depravity and moral decline of their people because they are rejecting God. How long do you expect he will tolerate such wickedness? You don't have to be a prophet to see that it is nearing the time for Jesus's return. From what I can see, nothing is going on around me that would cause the enemy to stir up the havoc I've been feeling the last few days, which makes me think that the torment I've experienced has more to do with an unseen war taking place in the heavens that may not have anything to do with me at all. Because I try and live my life for God and honor my Savior as best I can in my limited capacity as a human; I may have become a casualty of war, albeit a minor inconvenience. I would rather experience the enemy's wrath than the wrath of God! I'm not trying to scare anyone, but if you are living in sin and haven't turned your life around, you had better repent now and begin living for Jesus because he could show up at any moment. 

and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come. 1 Thessalonians 1:10

May 12, 2023

Sometimes, I share things that may seem odd, but I observe the physical things around me and assign spiritual value to them. When everyone became obsessed with owls, I was repulsed because I saw them as predators in the darkness. Yes, they are interesting and cute, and I have nothing against owls, but when they perch on your property, I see it as a sign that you may be dealing with the forces of evil spiritually. It’s been a tough week, not because of my injury but because I believe the enemy has chosen to torment me. Every day this week, there have been signs that he’s trying to overtake me. He may think he knows me but doesn’t realize that I rely solely on God to rescue me from his torment, and through him, I am stronger than ever. Early yesterday morning, we caught a coyote on our camera passing through our property; late yesterday afternoon, an alligator decided to cross our driveway, in nearly the same place, and may try to make a home in our pond, but there’s nothing for him to eat in it, so I expect him to move on soon. That’s the same thing that will happen to whatever this demonic presence is about; it will move on because there is nothing they can do to take me out of the love of Jesus. There are more amazing creatures that live on my property than there are predators. I haven’t figured out why this is happening, but I can guarantee that I will worship God, praise my Savior, and listen closely to the Holy Spirit as he teaches me to remain steady. I’m not complaining; I’m as happy as can be because I will not let the enemy steal my joy! Follow my example when dealing with darkness trying to overtake you; cry out to Jesus if the going gets tough; you will find power when you use his name.

“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. “Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you. Matthew 5:10-12

May 11, 2023

Those who partner with Jesus in any ministry will face challenges from the evil forces that live among us. The devil and his minions will do whatever it takes to try and get you to curse God; it’s their mission to get you to deny him. I recognize when torment is coming because some people around me are sensitive to their presence and react negatively without knowing why. It’s not only mental torment; it can become physical; he will use whatever method he thinks will stop you from your mission. For some reason, for me, he tries to destabilize me by injuring my right foot; this is the third injury I’ve had to the same foot, only this time there is breakage, but it’s not in a place that disables me. I can still walk on it and stand firm! Our feet are our firm foundation, like Jesus, and any injury can take us off balance. It may be a representation of a spiritual battle that’s coming. However, I am prepared with a sword, spiritual armor, the Holy Spirit, and the power of Jesus! I will not be defeated. I am delighted when a battle ensues because I know something good is about to happen in the kingdom of God! Until you begin to look at your challenges as a spiritual battle, you will be defeated before it begins. Rise up, mighty warriors of God; know where your power comes from; it’s not in yourself; it’s in your submission to God. Allow him to defeat your enemy!

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. Ephesians 6:11-13

May 10, 2023

Sometimes, it's hard to pray for people we love because we tend to limit God in those prayers. We know God will answer those prayers in a way that we didn't see coming, which can be scary! I have a friend whose sister is involved with a man whose past behavior should have eliminated him from being her mate. His charm blinded her, and because of that, she failed to make a good decision for her future. My friend told me she had prayed for that situation and asked God to intervene, but she didn't want her sister heartbroken; that's how she prayed. That kind of prayer limits God, and until she decides to pray for God to do whatever it takes to remedy that situation, nothing life-changing will happen. We cannot limit God. Our prayers are powerful; he loves us, but only he knows what it will take to steer humans in the right direction. I am guilty of praying that way, but the more I learn about the grace of God, the more I believe he has my best interest at heart and will do whatever it takes to bring his children into the comfort of his presence. Pray, remembering how much he loves you and doesn't want to hurt you or the people you love. Take the breaks off, and release the situation to him; he will do what is best. 

Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. Colossians 4:2

May 9, 2023

 

As a kid, like most of us, I would occasionally fall and skin my knees. It would hurt, but off I went, playing again as if nothing happened. Yesterday, I tripped and fell, twisting my ankle and skinning my knees, and I was down for the day. As I sat there after falling, I prayed while crying that I could still walk. I can still walk, but it hurts. I avoided going to the doctor yesterday, but today, after the swelling has receded, I realized it might be fractured or broken because I feel grinding when I move my foot a certain way. In my area, we have an emergency room at the hospital, but we also have Florida Orthopedic, which also has an emergency room for orthopedic issues. I have no intention of going where sick people are harboring germs, but I will go to the orthopedist. I’m thankful I have a choice. As Christ-followers, we must also decide where to seek spiritual healing. You don’t go to a worldly friend who is not part of the body of Christ; you go to someone who knows Jesus, can encourage you with prayer, and can refer you to healing psalms from the Word of God. So, rather than becoming more downtrodden with the discouragement of an unbeliever, a fellow Christian can lift you out of the muck and mire. Find a Christian friend and stick with them like glue!

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. Colossians 3:16

May 8, 2023

Though it seems like a few months, it has probably only been a few weeks, but one of our side-by-side vehicles was taken over by Carolina wrens and their nest. We still used it for awhile, even though we saw the eggs, we just parked it back where it was and the wren couple would come and attend to them. However, when the momma bird began sitting on the nest, we decided not to disturb them anymore. You don’t realize how much you use something until it’s no longer available to you. Yesterday, we noticed that they had finally left. Now we have three more songbirds to entertain us with their voice. 

I know that you can’t compare a bird to a human, but the closer I get to the Lord, the more compassion I have for God’s living creature. He has created a beautiful balance in nature that fill our hearts with joy. He has made the body of Christ, his children, to resemble nature’s balance and expects us to work together in harmony, loving and bearing with one another. Sometimes that can be inconvenient, like the birds taking over my side-by-side, but it’s worth it when we please God with our actions. 

Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. Colossians 3:12-14

May 7, 2023

After installing some of our crisp white cabinets, the drywall finisher created a cloud of dust while sanding the walls. Dust is everywhere! Now we have a mess to clean up and cracks to clean in the doors and drawers of the cabinets. It’s okay; a little cleaning never hurts anyone. The smooth finish on the walls looks fantastic. I can’t wait to see it painted. 

You can almost imagine our life in Christ in comparison to those cabinets. After accepting Jesus as our Savior, we were crisp and clean, but as trials of life hit us, a cloud of dust settled in our minds, causing us to need a little cleaning. Thankfully, our salvation lasts through the rough times and covers the messes we make. Repentance is vital to keeping ourselves healthy, freeing us from the guilt that can accumulate in our minds. The Holy Spirit will tug on your heart, causing you to feel guilty for sullying the body of Christ with sin. Repent and get over it! It’s that easy, like cleaning the dust from the cabinets. 

For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. On account of these the wrath of God is coming. Colossians 3:3-6

May 6, 2023

I’m trying to be an organic gardener, but it isn’t easy. Yesterday, I picked some of my cauliflower and couldn’t eat it. The leaves were riddled with holes from some kind of worm, and when I pealed them back I could see them. I should have kept it dusted with pest control before it began to form the curds, but I’m trying not to poison myself. By not inoculating the plants against pest, it made them inedible anyway. I should have given them a chance to thrive by armoring them against the evil worm; then maybe I would have had something decent to eat.

Our salvation through Jesus is like pest control; he has disarmed the power of principalities of this world. We were dead in our sins but now, Satan and his cohorts no longer have dominion over us. Oh but they will cause us to think they still rule over us; that is why it is so important that we hold every thought captive and scrutinize it against what God says in his word. He will continue to try and ruin your testimony of faith by poking holes in it and luring you into sin; stand firm in your commitment, and stay dressed in God’s armor.  

And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross. He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him. Colossians 2:13-15

May 5, 2023

To be completely forthcoming, I write this blog, "To the followers of Christ," because not everyone who thinks they are saved is saved, and as a precaution, I want to catch anyone who may have fallen through the cracks. Even though many profess salvation, our job as disciple-makers is only complete once we see them living for him. Saying a short prayer and receiving baptism doesn't necessarily mean you've changed your life. We must make a complete about-face and leave everything behind we once believed in, and put Jesus first and foremost. He sacrificed everything to make us holy and above reproach, but we must do our part by living for him. 

Below is what it says in Matthew Henry's Commentary on the Whole Bible:

“We can expect the happy end of our faith only when we continue in the faith, and are so far grounded and settled in it as not to be moved from it. We must not draw back unto perdition,but believe unto the saving of the soul. We must be faithful to death, through all trials, that we may receive the crown of life, and receive the end of our faith, the salvation of our souls.”

You must stay strong in your faith in Jesus until the very end.

if indeed you continue in the faith, stable and steadfast, not shifting from the hope of the gospel that you heard, which has been proclaimed in all creation under heaven, and of which I, Paul, became a minister. Colossians 1:23

Here are a few other verses to consider: 1 Corinthians 15:58, Hebrews 10:23, Hebrews 10:39, 1 Peter 1:9

May 4, 2023

It's important to remember that darkness only exists in the absence of light, which is why we must embrace our identity as children of the light. Unfortunately, those who embrace evil often despise us for shining our light, which is Jesus, because it diminishes their value. It's clear from current events that many of us are hiding our light under a bushel, forgetting the song we used to sing as children. If we continue to do so, evil will only continue to grow worse. As believers in Jesus, we are no longer part of the domain of darkness; we now live in his kingdom and must act accordingly. If we all let our light shine, perhaps the forces of evil will scatter like roaches.

He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. Colossians 1:13-14

This little light of mine,
I’m gonna let it shine.
This little light of mine,
I’m gonna let it shine.
Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.
Hide it under a bushel? NO!
I’m gonna let it shine.
Hide it under a bushel? NO!
I’m gonna let it shine.
Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.
Don’t let anyone blow it out,
I’m gonna let it shine.
Don’t let anyone blow it out,
I’m gonna let it shine.
Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine

May 3, 2023

Sometime last year, I began covering a New Testament chapter each day and writing a post about it. Maybe when I’m finished, I will put them together in a book; we’ll see if God leads me down that path again. However, there are some chapters that I tend to linger in because the content is so good that I can’t summarize it in one paragraph. Philippians 4 is one of those books. It is so encouraging; I can imagine how exhilarating it was for the Philippians to receive such a letter from Paul. Take a look at some of the verses from that chapter:

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. Philippians 4:6-7

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

I can do all things through him who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13

And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19

I often recite these Bible verses without realizing they are all from the same chapter and book. I tend to memorize the content but forget the address, which is something I need to work on. During tough times, it's important to uplift and support each other. We should keep a collection of hopeful verses close by and commit them to memory for easy access in our minds. If you haven't memorized these scriptures, I encourage you to do so. Look them up in the version of the Bible you use; the ones I've included are from the English Standard Version.

May 2, 2023

I’m very excited about today; our new cabinets are to be delivered! Every step that gets us back into the main house is exciting. We’ve remodeled several homes that we’ve lived in, but never a complete do-over. It’s going from a five-bedroom with chopped-up living space to a two-bedroom open concept, and the only reason we have an extra bedroom is for our grandkids. Once it is complete, we can have our entire family over for the holidays without feeling crowded or overwhelmed by extra noise. It’s like our house is receiving salvation; rather than tear the whole thing down, we are removing the negative things about it and rebuilding it to our perfection. As a Christ-follower, that’s what Jesus is doing for you! Rather than replace you entirely, he is building you into his likeness, removing the wall that blocks the light and opening your heart to become perfect in him. He gives you room to entertain family and friends to share in his goodness. Today, ask God what walls you are hiding behind that need to be removed so that his light drenches your soul.

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

May 1, 2023

"May-day, May-day, May-day!" I urge you to listen closely. We face turbulent waters as the waves of sin crash against our ship, threatening to sink us. Our only hope now is to call upon the LORD for salvation. Those who believe in him will be protected, as he is with us in this boat. Jesus is our refuge and our only escape from the punishment of sin. Only by seeking refuge in him can we find safety. Even as the world crumbles around us, we need not fear the wrath of God. While it may be tempting to stay in our comfortable lives, we must be willing to endure the anger of others rather than face God without Jesus. He is our shield and protector, and we must turn to him for comfort and strength when the world's troubles overwhelm us. Trust in him, and he will guide you to safety.

and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God that depends on faith— Philippians 3:9

April 30, 2023

During a recent conference, I observed people getting up and leaving in the middle of the speaker's presentation. Their topic was interesting and informative. Can we not sit still for thirty minutes? I wish I didn't notice such things, but I do. A servant of God spends countless hours preparing a message that we should probably hear, and they are often interrupted by bladder issues or whatever causes a person to walk out. While I understand that unforeseen circumstances can arise, respecting others and handling any needs beforehand is essential. Would Jesus walk out while one of his beloved was speaking? Absolutely not. He would be attentive, listening carefully to every word. As followers of Christ, we should emulate his behavior and show love and attentiveness toward one another. Let us strive to be mindful of our actions, remembering that God is always watching.

Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus Philippians 2:4-5

April 29, 2023

Johnny Cash wrote a song and released it in 1977 in his album “The Rambler,” called “No Earthly Good.” Part of the lyrics includes, “You’re shinin’ your light, and shine it you should, / But you’re so heavenly minded you’re no earthly good.” As part of my goal for myself and to try and convey in writing to you, we must rebuke the lies of the enemy, and sometimes that means unlearning the things we’ve taken into our heads, including the lyrics to this song. My preacher mentioned this very thing as being a lie in one of his sermons, and it hit home with me; I will sometimes catch myself trying not to seem overly spiritual, and I guarantee you the quote from that song has something to do with it. I always want to be heavenly-minded; eat, drink, sleep, and go throughout my day thinking about Jesus; that is my mission! If I can include him in every aspect of my life, I can guarantee that he will make sure that I shine a light on his kingdom and that I am of earthly good. Removing strongholds is ongoing; anytime you can overcome a lie with the truth is a good day!

For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. If I am to live in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me. Yet which I shall choose I cannot tell. Philippians 1:21-22

We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ, 2 Corinthians 10:5

April 28, 2023

Because of our business, we must occasionally call upon officials in local government. It takes months of planning, lawyers, and lots of paperwork because of the bureaucracy and hurdles they require. One component that most people leave out of the equation is prayer! When you call upon God and involve him in every step, you can be sure that the outcome is part of his will. What makes it even better is when the actions you take with God’s help are approved, you get no opposition from the community and a unanimous vote in your favor from the county commissioners! Not only that, but the county planners had recommended denial! Thankfully the outcome was what we wanted, but if it hadn’t been, we would know that God had a more excellent plan that we were not privy to see. Sometimes we go about living and forget to include God in the details; he wants us to involve him in the process. Wouldn’t it be great if we became so obsessed with God that we couldn’t tie our shoes without including him? I think a good portion of our anxiety would diminish, and we would be at peace even when everything seems chaotic. Pray and trust God; he always has our best interest at heart.

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. Philippians 4:6-7

April 27, 2023

Years ago, Richard and I committed three years to study under Pastor Pierre Chestang as a part of The Bible Training Centre for Pastors and Teachers. During that time, the Lord began opening up my heart to write. As I continued training, I became more confident and courageous and began posting biblical truths. As a part of our graduation, we had to write a mission statement. My mission statement was and still is:

“Training believers to break bonds and live free.”

It wasn’t until this week that I realized that the main point of my mission was to help Christians put on their helmet of salvation. The helmet protects your brain from the forces of evil trying to create strongholds. Until we realize that Jesus paid the price for everything, we will continue to live in bondage. You must put on the whole armor of God every day! The best way to begin the journey to freedom is to return to the beginning of your life and confess every sin that comes to mind; the Holy Spirit will help you remember. It can take weeks, but if you go about it systematically, God will set you free by the end. Yes, Jesus cleaned up all that sin, but acknowledging them will help remove the chains. 

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, Ephesians 6: 14-17

For graduation, we had to give a short speech and this was mine:

“I've been a follower of Christ since childhood. During the impressionable years before that, the enemy had a plan to convince me that I wasn't good enough. At the time I accepted Christ, I didn't accept His complete cleansing of my life because it was beyond my understanding. Then, in my teen years and on into adulthood, I wandered away from Jesus. During that time away I accumulated strongholds unbecoming of a servant of Christ. After I learned what they were, I decided it was time to break those bonds. Now that I've been set free, I want other Christians to feel that same freedom. BTCP has given me the training I need to bring others to Christ and to help them walk through the deliverance from evil. It has taught me to utilize one of my most precious resources, the Word of God.  When I wield that sword and rightly handle the Word and its truths, strongholds are demolished!”

April 26, 2023

After battling white flies, some kind of leaf disease, and finally, worms, I gave up trying to save my embattled squash plants. They nearly stopped producing, and what they did make quickly became full of worms. I ordered new seeds, pulled up the old plants, and replanted them. Florida heat is coming, but I hope to get a good crop before the new plants succumb. And here again, my word of the year, persevere, comes into play. 

When one battle is over, another one begins, so I sleep in my armor! I’ve noticed that when I plant new seeds, the squirrels find them and dig them up, and sometimes they dig near my new seedlings and unearth their tiny roots. Although it’s trying, I don’t cry over the ones I’ve lost, I just plant new seeds, but now I have a plan to protect them. My degree in fashion design finally paid off yesterday; I came up with an idea to save the seeds from those pesky squirrels; tulle! I’m hoping that thin barrier will deter them from digging. The seeds will still get light and water, but they have a better chance of sprouting covered with the frilly coat of armor. I’ll let you know if it works. 

We face a daily spiritual battle; if you don’t take the necessary steps to protect yourself, you too will become weary. Persevere and never give up! Put on the whole armor of God so you can defend yourself from the wiles of the devil.

Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. Ephesians 6:11

April 25, 2023

Christ-followers do not engage in worldly matters; we’ve been set apart as representatives of Jesus. If you excuse the craze of drag story time for children as something innocent, you have become part of the problem. This obscene and lewd behavior being pranced in front of children is atrocious, and Christians should separate themselves from involvement. The Bible condemns such behavior from the Old Testament to the New Testament. 

For you may be sure of this, that everyone who is sexually immoral or impure, or who is covetous (that is, an idolater), has no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. Ephesians 5:5

We should also be cautious of calling a man “her” or a woman “him”; you then become part of the lie. Everyone in their heart of hearts knows this is wrong, but patronizes these people not to cause hurt feelings. If you go along with their madness, they may believe they are saved, but clearly, they are not; you’re not helping them one bit by continuing the lie. Agreeing with them is like throwing gas on the flames of hell. Feel sorry for them but tell the truth even if it’s unpopular. 

Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. Therefore do not become partners with them; for at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light Ephesians 5:6-8

April 24, 2023

My grandson, who has a very high IQ, shared with me that his mother told him to act smart. I’m guessing she wants him to use his words properly so he doesn’t appear uneducated. That was the perfect response to him because kids tend to do and say ignorant things because they are still learning. He’s only 8, but many say they are Christian, using Christ’s name, but continue to act and say things that make them appear worldly, having never turned away from their former self to begin moving toward sanctification. Like my grandson, whose mother told him to act smart, we should do our best to act holy until the day Jesus appears; we will never be completely holy until we are in his presence, but we should do our best to represent him until that day comes.

to put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness. Ephesians 4:22-24