Saturday, May 16, 2020

What Is A Blessing?

Father have mercy on us I pray. I totally get the unemployment, the fears and the anxieties, truly I do. Americans are suffering. However, people are arming themselves with weapons and demanding their freedom, right now. Hurting people and protesting right now. Mostly because they want to got back to "life" and doing what they want.

Someone long ago “coined” The American Dream, and we feel cheated if we don’t have it and aren’t included in it or working toward it.

Matthew 6:33 is the Real American Dream.

What we have is never really ours to begin with.  This world and everything and everyone in it is perishing. When will we pursue what truly matters? If not now, when?

Anyone who listens to my teaching and follows it is wise, like a person who builds a house on a solid rock. Though the rain comes in torrents and the floodwaters rise and the winds beat against that house, it won't collapse because it is built on bedrock. But anyone who hears my teaching and doesn't obey it is foolish, like a person who builds a house on sand. When the rains and floods come and the winds beat against that house, it will collapse with a might crash."  Matthew 7:24-27

The flesh's dilemma: What we want verses what we can have...

God blesses those who are poor and realize their need for him, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs. God blesses those who mourn, for they will be comforted. God blesses those who are humble, for they will inherit the whole earth. God blesses those who hunger and thirst for justice, for they will be satisfied. God blesses those who are merciful, for they will be shown mercy. God blesses those whose hearts are pure, for they will see God. God blesses those who work for peace, for they will be called the children of God. God blesses those who are persecuted for doing right, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs. God blesses you when people mock you persecute you and lie about you and say all sorts of evil things against you because you are my followers. Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted in the same way. Matthew 5:3-12

Eternally His

Tuesday, May 5, 2020

Not A Care In The World

Father as I watched this movie the other night, not even five minutes into it that I began thinking this: 

When I first moved to North Beach it was such a joy. I was beyond amazed that it came to pass.  The sand, the waves, the funnel cake, the ice cream parlor, and the bakery. All within walking distance. Each day seemed the “glorious, delightful, unbelievable” same!  So not  boring or even predictable, but a beautiful blessed dream come true. I felt as though Ocean City came to my doorstep, I checked into a waterfront hotel and took up residence. An extended stay soon became my reality, and a sacred nearby space to retreat from the police sirens and unsolved cases that consumed my life as a law enforcement officer.

By YOUR #grace only, at 1355 hours, I would be making a left onto 261, and not soon after, pulling into my parking lot. North beautiful Beach, Maryland. Also called ‘The Jewel of The Chesapeake Bay.”

Blondie’s Bakery had freshly made cupcakes, and from scratch oh so yummy croissants with cheddar, ham and eggs. And you could get a cup of coffee inside a warm mug.

After filling my belly, I could walk next-door to Sister‘s Corner and chat with the owner.  I would pull up a chair and have some “laugh out loud” with Kathy. Not just the owner, but also my friend. Pat, her neighbor would come in without fail and share her story of the day.  Always interesting and always funny!  If I were lucky, she’d bring a tasting of something she’d made as she was always trying out new recipes.

There was also the Friday Farmer’s Market. Local and out of towners coming with great excitement and expectations.  From May through October there was a consistent flow of people and lots and lots of goodies.  Wine tasting, handmade soaps, local artists and jewelry on display, as well as band performances from time to time.  And, there were the summer throwback drive-thru Saturday Night Movies.  This was on a ginormous blow up screen on the Beach.  So, so cool, like living “in a movie.” 

In the mornings, if you got up early enough, you could be alone with the slow gorgeous quiet sunrise. Of course, the birds would be there. I mean what is life without the sweet chorus of a bird’s song? Each season was a blessed gift, with some very minor flaws.  But I deeply loved the fall leading up to winter, as the crowds began to fade. The selfish side of me, loved having the beach, the bay, and the boardwalk all to myself. And all the snow days; soon after retiring, the snow days were my favorite. Like a little kid, yay! I was no longer an essential employee.  PURE bliss with each and every perfect and unique snow flake!

North Beach had not only become a new lifestyle but my new life.  A much needed and welcomed respite after the death of my marriage, the passing of my four-legged best friend and the foreclosure on my home. Everything essential was now in a nice convenient circle. The grocery store, the library, the doctor’s office, the church, and the bank. And a little treasure unknown to me, the senior citizen community center was open to those 50 and older. Who knew? Lunch, activities, social gatherings, health tips, free computer, and a free weight room! Right outback, again, walking distance from where I lived.

It was like a fairytale life in a bubble.  Even the crime was at a minimum.  And when I say “minimum,” it was/is really nonexistent compared to the crime I encountered in the Nation’s Capital. 

Yep, not a care in the world. Walks up and down the boardwalk, waves, ducks, seagulls, swans far and few between, an endless array of flowers in so many vibrant colors, sun on my skin, a chocolate almond ice cream cone, and hellos and smiles galore. And yes, don’t forget the butterflies. The monarch bush was my absolute favorite.  There was also fishing at the end of the pier and boats pulling up to dock every now and again.  Happily, none of the food is to die for, but such a quaint little town with the basic necessities. Really, really friendly people too. It felt safe and it was safe. Law-enforcement officers did not wear bulletproof vest and just two blocks over, I’m at the police substation.

Nope! Not a care in the world…

This movie has absolutely nothing to do with my life, but there was an epiphany while watching it.  She got up and did the same thing, morning by morning.  "What happened to me?" was the quiet question inside my heart.  I used to have a simple life. No real cares known to me. Up, work, home, flip-flops...and later, dinner.  #Repeat!

"What changed?" Now, it's so different.  I’m longing to see YOU!  Desperately longing!  Overwhelmed by all the needs. My cries are deafening at times. I go through Kleenex constantly. I am burdened by Africa, Nigeria, North Korea, China, Bangladesh, Sudan, Lebanon, Syrian Refugees, and so many other countries. I’m grieved by the Western churches. I’m constantly aware that our brothers and sisters are being persecuted. Our missionaries are fulfilling the great commission, earnestly depending on our prayers, and the need for salvation...it is overwhelmingly obvious. It is so true that the god of this world has blinded the eyes of so, so many! The flesh does not think that it needs God and wants ABSOLUTELY NOTHING TO DO WITH YOU! Turkey doesn’t want You, Japan doesn’t want You, and it seems more and more that the USA doesn’t want You.  As Isaiah says, “Your lips say one thing but your hearts are far from ME!” (Paraphrased) 

Today’s Western church’s lifestyle blatantly shows what and whom we love.  It’s so not a secret.  Our lives are practically on display for all of social media and we're so self-consumed that we’ve completely forgotten about Hebrews 4:13. With every post, every share, like and opinion; verbal and non….God sees it!

God You have burdened my heart and I am grateful.  So very grateful to know that this beautiful blessed life is not about me.  Living inside my dream condo is not the purpose of my life and not the reason You saved me.  YOU gave me up close and personal views of poverty, lost souls, worshipping idols, and the cost that it takes to pick up our cross and follow Jesus.  It is not a bed of roses and it is not a stroll on the boardwalk.  

It is not a fight against flesh and blood.  Ephesians chapter 6.
I can enjoy this life because of James chapter 1.
I can have an abundant life because of John chapter 10.

ALL because of JESUS...Sweet, Sweet Jesus!

So, although I have many cares, You have promised that I can cast them all on You and that You would care for me and sustain me.  Psalm 55:22.

I do like living here.  My mind, my journals and my blogs are full of fond memories.  However, when You tell me to pack it up, this I will do.  I have been a recipient of Your grace and I will not complain.  I will continue trusting in Your overwhelming and endless, faithful provisions for my life and I will keep interceding for those who have yet to experience it. 

Abba, I thank You that my tears matter to YOU!  I thank You that prayers are being #answered!

Eternally His

Thursday, April 30, 2020

YOU Just Think You're Free...

GOD I JUST LOVE YOU SO MUCH!

I was not going to send out any #Barnabas text today.  BUT You are the breath that breathes in me and Your Word says, "In Him we live and move and have our being..." Acts 17:18

I was sitting on the sofa, multitasking.  The tv was on mute, the waves were capturing some of my attention, I was sipping my coffee and reading "Our Deadly Bread."

The devotional for today: Referencing John 8:31-36...If the Son set you free, you will be free indeed.

The story went on the share the excerpt from the movie "Amistad" where the men were in the courtroom demanding to be set free.  They said, "Give us free!" The courtroom was silenced. Justice was served and they were granted their freedom.

The next part was my testimony:  The devotional says impart: Most people today aren't in danger of being physically bound, yet true liberation from the spiritual bondage of sin remains elusive.  The words of Jesus in John 8:32 offer sweet relief: "So if the Son sets your free, you will be free indeed!"

FATHER GOD ALMIGHTY I cannot, never, ever thank YOU enough nor repay You for that sweet relief.

I am indeed free.  AND how sad that I had no idea that I was enslaved to begin with.

And even more profound is that I was a law enforcement officer with the authority to temporary take away someone's freedom, yet at the end of every tour, I was the one in bondage.

What a God------what a #Savior!

You are indeed Christ, Son the of Living God! Matthew 16:16
Glory Hallelujah!

So many will never go to jail.  So many will never visit someone in prison.  So many will go through life "believing" that they are free.  What a ginormous deception. So many are living their best life now and so many are merely existing and either way, they will end up in hell without a Savior.

But again: There's #GoodNews! Read the scripture in it's entirety and #believe....

In Jesus' name I pray, amen!

Eternally His

There Is GOOD NEWS Right Now

Father have mercy on us I pray. In this world there are so many things we want right now. First of all we want this QUARENTINE lifted right now.  Crucify the flesh I pray! Our flesh wants to get back to “our lives” right now.  Some want to leave the house right now.  Many want a new house right now, a new job right now, a baby right now, a husband or a wife right now, a boyfriend or a girlfriend right now. We want our graduation right now, a college education right now, approved scholarship right now, a tax return right now, Amazon prime right now, a pay raise right now. Should I change jobs right now? Should I take some money from my 401(k) right now? Should I retire right now? Should I book my wedding venue right now? Should I make this purchase right now? Should I get divorced right now? Should I make travel plans right now? Should I have my pet groomed right now?  Should I have coffee or tea right now?  How about a bath or a shower, right now? Should I cook or eat out right now? I don’t like you right now. I don’t need church right now? I don’t have to read my Bible right now. I want to be happy right now! Like C. S. Lewis said, the flesh is so easily pleased…

In this life, in the United States, the land of opportunity, where everything is easily accessible, we question, should we have the latest technology right now, the newest cell phone, the best computer, the best camera, the best car, the most expensive house, all the amenities and all the material possessions we can stand… should we have those things right now is what we’re working toward? And countless are addicted and are incapable of asking should I get high right now? Should I have another drink right now? Should I have sex right now?

If only we could take the focus off of ourselves, and see what’s happening beyond our “right now” and see globally right now. People are being persecuted for their faith right now. People are being put in prison for their faith right now. People are being beheaded for their faith right now. People are being abandoned and ostracized for their faith right now. People are having their homes searched regularly for Christian materials right now. People are hiding in fear for their faith right now. People are dying of starvation right now. People are committing suicide right now.

Third world countries do not have toilets, clean water, homes, education, churches, Bibles, proper sanitation, food, medical attention, or government officials who care about the people right now. People are being raped right now. Children are being molested right now. Children are still being sold right now. Africa is heavily populated with HIV right now. Orphans are everywhere right now. Refugees have nowhere to lay their heads, no address and no zip codes right now. Human trafficking is a big deal right now.

Opioid addiction is a big deal right now. Pornography addiction is a big deal right now. Abortions are a big deal right now. Same sex attraction is a big deal right now. Men are marrying men and women are marrying women right now. Gambling is a big deal right now. Obesity is a big deal right now. Mental health consumers are a big deal right now. People are being deceived right now. Hopelessness and despair is the biggest burden right now.

People are dying without a savior right now. How in most cases here, health, wealth and prosperity is the goal right now. Being happy is what the flesh wants right now. It's our biggest pursuit right now! BUT God says SIN is a big deal right now! Jesus is still seeking to save that which was lost right now. Salvation is being offered right now.  Eternity needs to be decided right now.  You have to choose right now.  It’s a matter of life and death right now.  Then, if you live past that decision, decide to do something right now.  This is not to make you feel bad.  This is to make you act RIGHT NOW!

If you think that you do not need God right now, if you think that this life is all about you right now, if you think that this life is all there is right now, you are sadly under the influence of satan, right now.

“The devil who rules this world has blinded the minds of those who do not believe.  Then cannot see the light of the Good News—the Good News about the glory of Christ, who is exactly like God." 2 Corinthians 2:4 (ICB) International Children’s Bible. 

There’s still a global pandemic right now.  However, this too shall pass.  BUT…there is a day of judgement to come and we must decide right now!  God says, You’re either for me or against me.  And, the end of your life is a day set aside to meet with Him face to face to give an account for the life that HE gave you.

Matthew 12:30 and Romans 14:12

Eternally His

Sunday, April 26, 2020

The Faith We Profess?

Supposedly it was "Faith Friday" and nothing was shared about whom he had placed his faith in!!! This made my heart sad:  It was the lead pastor for Hillsong Church in New York.  He was privileged to be interviewed on channel 7 this past Friday.  She asked him what kind of encouragement could he give us or what was his advice during this pandemic?

The only thing he said about God was “Thank God for teachers!” He didn't give God any glory, he did not talk about prayer, Hope in Jesus, or salvation. He did not talk about scripture at all.

I felt so compelled to pray for this man...God were You grieved?

Lord God I thank YOU for the HOPE that I have in Jesus and I thank YOU for the Holy Scriptures and the precious and priceless power and gift of prayer!

#Part of a prayer request that I received today caused me to pray something different:  I do love having access to the net and all the ways in which it is used for good things and specifically for Your Glory!  BUT Father God, I just want to add that although the internet may not be 100% faithful, I pray Your people are reminded that You are. If or when the internet goes down, if it fails, if there are times when we cannot get online, I pray that those who still have a Bible will seek to read it. And I pray for those who do not have a Bible.  I pray for those who forgot that they have a Bible or just don’t feel like reading the Bible, that the Holy Spirit would remind them that we still have access to YOU! We still have the ability, for those who believe and have put their faith in Jesus Christ, we have direct access to God because of what Jesus did! The Resurrected Christ that we believe in and proclaim, He died to give us access to YOU!  

We are made righteous because of Him and nothing we did or deserve.  And because of that, how can we not see YOU as ALL SUFFICIENT!?!  With or without social media, and without a Bible and without the Internet, You are a #personal God! We can have as much #intimacy with You as we desire.  The people of the Old and New Testament had YOU…..Help it to be #enough for this day and age!  PLEASE I pray!!!  May Jesus be #proclaimed as #enough!

Here was the petition I received via email:
”...with the website, there have been numerous challenges to overcome. To complicate these issues, our team members are working from home, which adds complexity to these changes. Pray that God would grant wisdom and peace during this time of adjustment and adaptation. And pray for team morale as its members grapple with separation and distance.”

Father I honor this request and I prayed in agreement. I know there are people who need to have human touch, and I have compassion for them.  But still, the best intimacy and the most important relationship is with our Savior! If we were to meditate on Your promises and to pray without ceasing, that would be sufficient.  If we were to do nothing, You would still do something! That’s just my personal opinion God.  AND NOT ONLY THAT, we are not bound.  The Holy Spirit is NOT bound.  

I will keep repeating that again and again.  People are allowed to leave out, to get food, to get prescriptions, to walk and to exercise…why aren't we (all) using that time to #engage with the lost?  My friend shared that her brother is a missionary in Indonesia and they have to stay in the house.  Also our missionaries from Turkey said that on the weekends, they cannot go out.  We, in the states, we still have the freedom to go out!  LORD may we proclaim Jesus!

Father God You know my heart. Unlike anyone else, You truly know my heart. I don’t belittle anything that’s happening. I do not belittle this virus and all the effects that have come as a result. I do not belittle the unemployment, the loss of healthcare, possibly being infected, and those who have lost a loved one. I do not belittle homeschooling, filing for government relief, standing in or driving through food lines.  Nor the loss from the farmers, the close of businesses, those having to shelter in place, remain under quarantine, the deep rooted fears, increased anxiety and depression, the isolation, and the not knowing.  The lack of human contact and the churches being closed. I do not belittle the increase in mental health issues, the increase in alcohol addictions and the increase in domestic violence abuse cases. I do not belittle the exhaustion from our medical professionals, our paramedics and law-enforcement officers. I did not belittle the children who have no clue on what is happening, and the lack of ability by the parents to explain this.

I just pray with my whole heart that all of this COVID-19 will bring people to the foot of the cross.  Father God, to see their need for #Jesus and receive His priceless gift of salvation. Technology ain't got NOTHING on God Almighty!  HE alone is the CURE and Comfort and it there is no other. You alone have the cure. Not the doctors, not the vaccine, not the president or any bill or financial relief that he provides for the American people.

ABBA FATHER, globally, because everyone is affected, cause us to deeply ponder, meditate on, cry out to, seek, plead with, yell, cry, and call on the name of Jesus! May everyone seek Jesus!  As Your Word says there is a day of judgment to come. This is indeed a glimpse and a warning. This is a mass call for salvation and sadly, many will miss it and not respond. This is a time to take the focus off of ourselves, our achievements, our material possessions, our prideful flesh and self reliance.  Our tightly gripped wealth, our so-called status, our self righteousness, and our misguided and deceitful beliefs that we are in control, and that we don’t need You.

Salvation today I pray in Jesus name. Thank You for Your mercy upon my life!  I heard the gospel and I responded and I pray that You will continue to be merciful to me and all who are still living.

PAUSE:  Jesus Christ ------> Have mercy on me I pray!

May not another person die without You as Savior.

Father please shut down social media for a time. Please. Shut down social media and all the on-line churches. See if your people would #really depend on You. See if Jesus is in fact enough. Or are those "just words" and just praise songs that we "sing" on Sundays because we still have so many things at our disposal?

Do we profess Him because we still have the freedom to move about and to do things that give us pleasure while we "wait" for the virus to pass us by. Test us God! Continue testing us, before everything fully opens back up.  Please continue to test us. We need to be sure that our faith is true, sure and sustainable so that we can be approved before You as the Christians we claim to be.  Oh that we would pass the test and prove faithful to the God we profess to have placed our faith in. In Jesus' name refine us as Your Word says.  Amen.

"But the wicked people,,, they are like useless chaff that the wind blows away.  So the wicked will not escape God's punishment.  Sinners will not worship God with good people.  This is because the Lord protects good people.  But the wicked will be destroyed." Psalm 1:4-6

Test us, test me my Lord.  Help us, I pray.  Show us what we have truly placed our faith in.  Let this faith be real and may YOUR name be glorified!  It is a matter of life and death.  It is not about this virus, but it is about our eternal resting place.

"Though He slay me, yet I will hope in Him; I will surely defend my ways to His face." Job 13:15

1 Peter 1:7
Psalm 66:10-12
Isaiah 48:9-11
Daniel 12:10
Malachi 3:2-4
Job 23:10
Psalm 18:30

Lord God all 66 Books are Life!  Light and life.  Breathe on us again, O' Breath of God!  In Jesus' name, send a fresh wind of Your Spirit!  Amen!

Eternally yours

Saturday, April 25, 2020

Groundhog Day or #Reality!?

Father as I am sitting here reflecting the days end and deciding to finish reading scripture, my eyelids are heavy. I cannot believe it’s after 1AM. Although nothing much is happening in the world, the days are going by really fast. We are supposedly in day #95 of the COVID-19 virus permeating every area of our lives. Day after day is feeling somewhat like Groundhog Day. Wake up (BY YOUR GRACE ALONE) pray, coffee maybe, news updates maybe, pray, look out the window, as I wait for you. May or may not see someone walking by. And possibly check the weather.
In between that, listening to my thoughts, read the Bible app, maybe some praise music, checking on the grand girls and my parents, encouraging others via Facebook and texting, devotionals, reading more scripture, praying throughout the day, going for an occasional drive, maybe a nap, and food… Food, food and more food. And yes, lots of tears. 
If I do not go out into the world, if I do not witness to at least one person, smile or say hello to someone, if I’m not sharing the love of Jesus, the gospel truths, what is my purpose? What is our purpose?
This world has nothing to offer us. I have been going out almost every day, looking for someone to witness to. Looking for someone, and hoping to encounter a lost soul, someone living a life apart from Jesus. Someone wandering the earth without salvation. Without a Savior. That’s my reality. That’s our reality. That in the mist of this Pandemic, that we would open our eyes and see that people are merely existing with no faith in Jesus Christ. Not to mention the countless souls that have died without ever placing their faith in him. 
I talked with Alex and Q yesterday for over three hours. I could’ve talked more. I would’ve loved it if we were sitting at a table or in a comfortable space with their Bibles open. Taking turns praying and exulting #Jesus. Silence the enemy and shrinking the lies of our adversary! Only exulting our God. That is my heartbeat. To exult #Jesus. To pray. To point others to the freedom in Christ Jesus. The forgiveness and mercy and grace of our God. To be set free from their past. From darkness to light. It is the only reason why I want to remain here. All the other stuff, the day today life, the day today decisions, I could care less. If I’m not going to proclaim Christ, encourage others, grow in my faith, being convicted by the truth, what is the point? If I am not going to be used by you, I ask, what is the point, is my question?

Gratefully and eternally Yours

Thursday, April 23, 2020

Even If...

Hello God!  What's up?

That just came to mind when I was reminded of little Alex.  A few years back we had a coffee date.  I think she was 10.  She told me that she finally heard God's voice and it completely changed her.  She said that she heard: "I love you Alex!"  She shared that she never knew those words would change her life and how she relates to YOU!  So from that encounter, she felt so comfortable simply saying, "What's up God?"

Isn't that the kind of faith that You said would get us into heaven?  Childlike?

So not about works!  Glory Hallelujah!

Today I met with big Alex and his sister Q!  You were so glorified because I have nothing to say apart from what You're doing and how You are the #answer to everything.  Seriously, I've got nothing!"

My Alex needed some encouragement and as YOU already know, that's my spiritual gift.  I was so vulnerable in telling him that sometimes, I just don't feel like it.  I don't feel like reading.  I don't feel like praying.  I don't feel like church.  I don't feel like witnessing.  I don't feel like life...I get so weary at times...so weary.  My tears almost always wipe me out!

Sometimes, I honestly feel like being still and doing absolutely #nothing!  And in those moments, YOU so still love me!  And even more so, when I don't, but I walk in obedience to the Holy Spirit and "just do it" YOU so bless me!  I mean YOU seriously bless me!  GOD You never #disappoint!

I was sitting there talking with them and here comes Ms. Teresa.  You know her story and I cannot wait for it to all be used for good!  Praying and expecting the same with Kyle and Ben.  GOD You Reign Supreme and I get to watch it all unfold.

Lord Jesus, You are the ultimate ENCOURAGER and I pray with my whole heart that YOU will give my son what he needs.  You know the deepest needs and longings.  I cannot meet those.  It's 100% Your job and thank You a hundred times over that it is not dependent upon me.

You see him and all of his siblings.  You see his nieces, his aunts, his uncle, his grandparents, his dad and stepmom, all of his closest relationships and you know what each person needs.  Inhale...exhale.… #SELAH!

LORD You know that I love all scripture.  BUT, there are always those ones that come right when you need a WORD!  I love the one that says: You are the GOD of all flesh and that nothing is too difficult for You!  YAY!!! I'm 55, soon to be 56, Lord willing, in July.  And in my childlike voice, I say, "YAY!!!"

I love You and I give it all over to You.  I don't have to have a specific ministry.  I don't have to study a particular book of the bible.  I don't have to do on-line fellowship.  I don't have to read my bible app daily.  I don't have to intercede.  I don't have to send out letters and cards of encouragement.  I don't have to run errands for people.  I don't have to "give of myself."  I don't have to do prayer walks.  I don't have to share the truth of who Jesus is...

However, I want to.  Not all of these things and not always.  My flesh is so weak, but my spirit is willing.

I love You and I love being used by You.  I love that last year, my word was #adventure.  It was such an adventure that I wanted to carry it over into #2020.  And although You gave me the word #truth for this year, this adventure in the truth has been quite the adventure.  Rediscovering Jesus.  Getting so deep in Your Word and sharing Your truths with those that I encounter.  I am compelled to seek truth and then to share it.  I simply cannot keep it to myself.

I crack myself up sometimes as I'm often saying, "Today, I'm not going to send anything out."  Today, no Barnabas texting and no FB posting.  Then YOU reveal something to me that is SO good, I have to share.  Even if it reaches just one soul in their season of life.  It may be the one nugget of Your #truth they needed to hear and need to know that You came through for them.

GOD that's what You do.  You come through for us.  I needed to hear from You the other night.  I was saying some things "inside" my head.  Questioning some serious stuff and before I went to sleep....there was the answer!  John Piper's sermon.  It wasn't even a recent one.  And it wasn't even for his congregation.  He was ministering to a group at The Gospel Coalition.  I absolutely loved it and WOW GOD!  It was so timely and appropriate.  I already knew the answer, but again...the flesh is weak.

You are so very patient with me and I love You.  Please again, I pray that You would hear the prayers I prayed today, yesterday, and the ones I'll pray tomorrow and answer them according to Your Divine will.  You know me by now to know that I mean that.  I want what You want.  As I told my Alex today, this world has nothing to offer me.  Even if I die, I win!  And if I stay here longer that I would prefer, like the Apostle Paul, I win...because I still have purpose in Your #kingdomagenda.

PS:  God the birds were so beautiful and so loud this morning!  SO glorious delightful!

Love eternally,
HPB

Monday, April 20, 2020

Waves Outside My Window

How real is God...?

Let me tell you...

It's April 20, 2020, and currently 12:38 am.  I'm sitting at my desk.  Not the Detective Sergeant desk that I occupied for over seventeen years.  Not the midnight watch commander's desk, waiting for a code one assignment while trying to convince my eyelids not to close.  BUT, to God be the glory, I'm sitting at my desk in North Beach, Maryland.  It's funny now that I think about this desk.  I remember saying back in 2016, "Now that I'm retired, I probably won't make much money.  So, what is it that I want with my last paycheck?"  I bought this desk from Ikea and I also purchased a Keurig coffee maker.  And I wrote THANK YOU on both when they arrived.

Now, sitting at my desk, I hear the waves just outside my window and I'm still in awe that I get to live here.  These are my favorite memories.  When the beach is empty and quiet.  I absolutely love having the beach to myself.  I still have some selfish tendencies and God is still working on me.  This is considered the Jewel of the Bay so it can get quite busy and quite loud.  THE BUGS ARE INSANE in the summer months.  But, the fall and winter....WOW!  And, the sunrise....ANOTHER WOW!  Oh and the snow....another wow!!!  Oh, and how can I forget the MOON over the water?!! Speechless at times.

I was just reading Psalms and reflecting on His goodness in my life and the promises that He's kept and made and are still keeping and making.  Then I got up to warm up my coffee and when I came back to my desk, I glanced over at my book.  As I was being seduced by the sound of the waves, I remembered a poem I'd written in my first book.  Recalling when I first moved here, I kind of, sort of had a toddler tantrum (no one knew this) but it was because I was not allowed to sign a two year lease.  There was so many new things happening in my life and so many life altering changes, so I was looking forward to moving in, calling this home and having to move a year later.  I'd just filed for bankruptcy and had to foreclose on my home in Waldorf.  All of this was new to me....leasing a condo and having to get my credit back in working order.  Not to mention, moving forward without my four-legged best friend.  Some fears lingered for sure.  BUT the view and the waves, they gradually took the anxiety away and the PRESENCE of a Holy God gently guided me into a personal relationship with the Lover of my soul.  WHO KNEW???  Well I sure didn't....

Anyway....I started the question with how real is GOD?  The below poem is in my first book and it was written before this beautiful blessed gift became my address and has been for almost nine years.

"Dear Diary,
I am doing well and I am in a happy place.  My life is peaceful and I don't have any distractions that keep me from hearing God's voice.  I have put on a few pounds and I have picked up a couple of gray strands, but overall, I still look fabulous.

I am looking forward to my birthday.  I'm going to spend a week at the beach and I'm super excited.  God has been so gracious to me in spite of my behavior.  He is indeed my saving grace.  I don't who I would be or where I would be without Him beside me.  He holds me accountable for my words and my actions and I've never had that before.  I am trying my best to walk like Him and with the solitude and journaling, it's all coming together.

All the things in the past, are just that to me; things in the past.  I am looking forward to making new memories and having dreams fulfilled.  He promised me in His Word and I believe Him.

In closing, I just wanted to put the truth out there.  I'm happy with or without someone.  And it's truly liberating!"

When I wrote that poem, I was planning to spend a week in Ocean City, Maryland.

Speaking of dreams coming true.  Here are just a few:
*Finding my birth father...
*Living here...
*Publishing two books...
*The way in which I retired...
*Financially blessing others...
*Counseling others...
*Being Loved Unconditionally...

Because He is a GOD who cannot lie, there is so much more in store! Ephesians 3:20-21!

Eternally His
The freedom to be me.  Just simply being me!


Saturday, April 11, 2020

A Blessed Day...

Father God, I am humble, grateful, loved, and at peace.
In the US, death toll tops 20,000.  World Wide, 108,827.  For every person still in the center of YOUR grace, perfect love cast out all fears.  We are human beings and death is eminent.  The Word of God says in Hebrews 9:27 that each person will die.  What happens after that should concern us.

I pray as this Silent Saturday comes to a close.  Over 2,000 years ago, it was such a different atmosphere as Jesus was laying dead in the tomb.  The day prior, He was crucified and many rejoiced and celebrated, and many were in disbelief and left with grief unimaginable.  HE was not only innocent but He was God!

It's so amazing and so crystal clear that we are sinners and that this heart is indeed pride-filled and wicked. (Jeremiah 17:9).  If Jesus would have waited for us to come into YOUR truth, if HE had waited for us to stop sinning and realize that we were dead in our trespasses....we would never have reached that point, and that YOU already knew to be true. You knew us and You know us!
And He said to them, "You are those who justify yourselves in the sight of men, but GOD knows your hearts; for that which is highly esteemed among men is detestable in the sight of God." Luke 16:15

The very reason that HE, Jesus died while we were still in our sins (Romans 5:8)

You are LOVE and YOU have gifted us with free will.  For many, that gift is killing them.  For others, it is leading them to the foot of the Cross.

I pray as we approach the celebration of Resurrection Sunday, many will be celebrating their triumph from death to life, as they have realized and professed their need for a Savior; have repented of their sins and placed their faith in the Lord Jesus.  I will never forget the first time I felt like a New Creation. (2 Corinthians 5:17)

Nothing and NO ONE can tell me that You are NOT God, that Jesus is NOT the Son of GOD, and that the Holy Spirit does NOT dwell inside of me. Similar to Moses, I came face to face with My Lord and my Savior....No one can tell me what I experienced on May 20, 2016!!!

I know who I used to be and I know what YOU delivered me from.  Saying, THANK YOU simply is not enough.  And I PRAISE You GOD that I don't have to pay YOU back.  However, I can choose to  live a life in worship as a result of my gratitude.

Beloved friends, what should be our proper response to God's marvelous mercies?  I encourage you to surrender yourselves to God to be His sacred, living sacrifices.  And, live in holiness, experiencing all that delights His heart.  For this becomes your genuine expression of worship.  Romans 12:1

I love You Lord Jesus and I say again, THANK YOU for going to the Cross for me.  Help me to live the rest of my days in response to that AMAZING LOVE!!!

Friday, April 10, 2020

Good News on Good Friday

I owe it all to You...at the Cross...I have victory of this virus.  You took on ALL of my iniquities and transgressions.  You suffered in silence for Denise Michell Fuller.  Without the Cross there is NO resurrection and NO victory!  The great exchange was transforming me from being God's enemy to being His friend.  From sinner to saint.  From abandoned to adopted.  From forsaken to forgiven.  From lonely to loved.  From death to life.  ALL because You had compassion on mankind.

Father God I thank You for this incredible gift.  I pray today in the precious and matchless name of Jesus Christ that every veiled eye, every hard heart, every decieved mine, every clogged ear and every living soul who is doing this life apart from an intimate and personal relationship with Your Son, is overtaken by Your Holy Spirit and that today, it would be the day of salvation for them.

Your Word says in Genesis, in the beginning was GOD, NOT Science.  Your Word says in John chapter 1 that Jesus was the Word, is the Word and was always with YOU!

Your Word says in Ephesians that it is by Grace that we are saved, through faith in Your Son and not by works, that anyone should boast.  Your Word says in John chapter 14, that Jesus is the ONLY way, the truth and the life and that NO ONE can come to the Father except through Him.

Your Word says in Luke that many will believe that they are inheriting the kingdom and entering into the gates because of what they did and YOU will sadly say, "Depart from ME, I never knew you."

Your Word says that without faith it is impossible to please God and that we must first believe in Him and that He is a rewarder to those who earnestly seek Him.  Your Word says that "whosoever" calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.  If you confess with your mouth and believe in your heart, that Jesus is Lord, than you shall be saved.

Your Word says that Your SON will return for His Bride, the Church of Christ.  You go on to say that absent from the body is present with the Lord. And that perfect love cast out all fear.

YOU Are Love and in You there is no deceit.  YOU did not have to send Your One and Only Son to the Cross for me.  BUT while I was still in my sin, believing that I was good.....(Most of my life) Jesus had already died for me.  PRAISE GOD HALLELUJAH, You had pity on a wretch like me!

Lord Jesus, the death toll for this covid-virus is up to 97,237.  And we know that some of those people went to be with the Lord and some went to hell.  YOU alone write our names in the Lamb's Book of Life. The ending for the living is not yet the ending.  You did not send Your Son into the world to condemn but to save.  John 3:16-18.  The deliverance is NOT is the "social distancing" the "sheltering in place" nor the doctors, the ventilators or the vaccine.  THE CURE IS IN THE PRECIOUS BLOOD OF JESUS CHRIST!!!

Many are recovering and many will recover.  Glory goes to You GOD!  How sad to have recovered from one of the most catastrophic events of this time and then, still failing to trust Jesus as Savior for the salvation of their souls, and go to hell??!!
I fell asleep thinking about the conversation I had yesterday with a man named Kevin.  He is 53 and doesn't know the gospel truth.  I told him how I worked for Law Enforcement all that time without a Savior.  If I had been killed in the line of duty, prior to May of 2008, I would be in HELL RIGHT NOW!

How can I not preach the good news to this lost and dying world?  How can I keep quiet about the JESUS who offers eternal life.  Like Pastor Dario said today in his sermon message, "this virus is NO respecter of person"....and neither are YOU GOD!  Death is eminent for every human being.  There is a Heaven and a Hell and there is a God who will judge.  AND just because (you) do not believe in either, doesn't mean that it isn't TRUE!

Lord Jesus, the Holy Spirit is NOT BOUND!  I pray Father God that YOU would again, have MERCY on this world and extend another invitation today to those who are under the influence of the evil one.

"For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, [headed for destruction] but to us who are being saved it is the power of God." 1 Corinthians 1:18

Thank YOU that on This GOOD NEWS FRIDAY, the gospel message is still good news.  AND Thank You so much for entrusting it to me.  I am having such a joyous adventure and You alone get all the Glory.  It is Your POWER working through me.  The POWER that Jesus promised when He ascended to heaven.  "But when HE, the Spirit of truth comes, HE will guide you into all the truth.  He will not speak on His own; He will speak only what He hears, and He will tell you what is yet to come. John 16:13..."And Jesus said, I have given all authority in heaven and on earth.  Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.  Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you.  And be sure of this:  I AM with you always, even to the end of age." Matthew 28:18-20

Abba Father I thank You that You desire obedience and not perfection.  Thank You that You embrace a contrite heart.  Thank You that nothing is dependent upon me but my faith in Jesus.

Help those who are walking in darkness to repent.  Lord, show them what that would look like, just as YOU did for me.  Make them new creations, just as You did for me.  Put a fire in their bones, just as You did for me.  Overwhelm them with love indescribable, just like You're doing with me.

So many are afraid.  I am not!  Like Paul, I know whom I have believed in and I am fully persuaded.

I love YOU SO MUCH and I cannot wait to see You face-to-face.  Oh and by the way....THANK YOU SO MUCH for yesterday's yummy truth from Jonah!  GOOOD are You Lord.  I'm so sad for those who don't know You.  SO Sad for those who do and don't enjoy Your Word.  SO Sad for those who do and still have not embraced Your love.  SO Sad for those who have not heard Your voice....and even sadder for those who think they are going to heaven and will not because they have been greatly deceived by satan.

In spite of my sadness and my heavy heart...I embrace the good news of the Cross and I embrace Jesus Christ, the author and perfecter of my faith.  FATHER, I am only able to smile, rejoice, sing, dance, cook, eat, sleep, cry, pray, walk, witness, proclaim, testify, serve, encourage and love because YOU are mine and I am Your #beloved daughter.  NOTHING will every change that TRUTH! (Romans 8:31-39)

PLEASE GOD, I plead with YOU again, set the captives free in Christ Jesus name.  May today be a fresh anointing of Your Spirit and may Isaiah 61 be written in the skies for all to see and whispered in the ears of those who are without sight.

AMEN and AMEN!

Eternally yours

Monday, March 23, 2020

Two Words:

Thank you for all the doctor's, nurses and medical personnel.
Thank you for the maintenance workers cleaning hospitals behind the scenes.
Thank you for the law enforcement officers.
Thank you for the fire fighters and paramedics.
Thank you for the National Guard.
Thank you for sound leadership.
Thank you for drive thru testing.
Thank you for those who are in compliance.
Thank you for those who are feeding our shut in seniors.
Thank you for those who are giving of their time.
Thank you for the open grocery stores.
Thank you for the employees, cashiers and shelf stockers.
Thank you for the truck drivers delivering globally.
Thank you for the news media who report accurately.
Thank you for those who are not afraid to hug.
Thank you for the on-line sermons for so many.
Thank you for opening the hotel in NYC for the homeless.
Thank you for the teachers keeping in touch with their students.
Thank you for putting a halt on evictions and foreclosures.
Thank you for grace on student loans.
Thank you for extension on tax preparations.
Thank you for the postal workers.
Thank you for the trash collectors.
Thank you for every random act of kindness.
Thank you that it is Spring.
Thank you for those pink flowers.
Thank you for the yellow flowers.
Thank you for my prayer walks.
Thank you for the bird's song.
Thank you for the sun on my skin.
Thank you for the bible app.
Thank you for gospel and praise music.
Thank you for my continued penny journey.
Thank you for the freedom to share to gospel.
Thank you that your eye is on my daughter.
Thank you for all those praise reports.
Thank you for the gift of prayer.
Thank you for answered prayer.
Thank you for the Biblical truths.
Thank you for godly wisdom.
Thank you for fellowship.
Thank you for forgiveness.
Thank you for simple things...
Thank you for basic needs...
Thank you for sweet treats...
Thank you for self-discipline...
Thank you for the Kleenex...
Thank you for tears...
Thank you for your peace...
Thank you for your promises...
Thank you for keeping my mind fixed on you...
Thank you that this world is not my home...
Thank you for grace and mercy...
Thank you for communing with me...
Thank you for the breath that I am breathing right now...
#Selah...….
Thank you for the use of technology...
Thank you for the Hope of Jesus Christ...
Thank you for knowing my heart without me speaking...
Thank you for pursuing the lost...
Thank you for the waves just outside my window right now...
Thank you for my five senses...
Thank you for using me to advance your kingdom...
Thank you for your protection over us all...
Thank you for being my Shepherd...
Thank you for the gift of free will...
Thank you for Holy Spirit conviction...
Thank you for waiting for me...
Thank you for loving me...
Thank you for … pause ... i'm getting ready to cry...

I love you and I just wanted to say, "thank you!"

Sweet 16 in the midst of COVID19

I hate sin.  I hate satan and I hate "social distancing!"

Churches are closed.  Schools are closed.  Malls are closed.  Restaurants are closed. The Zoo is closed.  Museums are closed.  Libraries are closed.  No parades.  Walt Disney World closed.  No public weddings or funerals.  ALL professional sports are cancelled.  No public concerts or venues.  No leisure flights.  No cruises.  No Department of Motor Vehicle.  No elective surgeries.  No dental appointments.  No visitations at the nursing homes.  No visitations at the jails and prisons.  No kids on the playgrounds.  All the famous landmarks are pretty much a ghost town.  No pedestrian traffic in NY's Time Square, the Nation's Capitol or in LA taking photos of the Hollywood walk of fame.

And the last one to come under submission is the Olympic Committee.  They are still trying to decide if they should proceed with this years games.  Considering they spent 30 billion dollars preparing.
Forget about the health and welfare of others...they want to move ahead...

Maybe our wealth and our pride and our wanting what we want is a thing that we should be pondering as millions of people are being told to "shelter in place."
Pretty much life as we "Americans" know it has come to a HALT.  The only things that are open (for now) are pharmacies, Walmart, grocery stores, liquor stores and gas stations.

At least six states have directed all non essentional people to stay in the house.  To work from home if applicable and if not, stop going period.  The Federal Government has shut it's doors to their employees and local business are also closed.  News anchors alternating, working from home to keep the distance among themselves.  Millions are applying for unemployment and many are living in fear trying to figure out how to feed their families. The doctor's and government officials are #believing that if we pratice "social distancing" for the next 15 days, we can "Get a Handle" on this.

There is man, once again trying to interject (his) wisdom...

What did God say and who in authority is praying to Him?

This thing wiped out residents of China, residents of Spain and insurmountable residents of Italy.  What makes man think that if we stop touching one another and stand back six feet, we are going to "resume our normal lives."  Seriously, people.  Why don't we ask GOD what does He want?

This is not at all His fault.  BUT He does hold the "cure!"  Personally, I do not believe He is going to give a vaccine just so that we can go back to the way things were.  I am in no way saying that this is our [mankind's] punishment.  I speaking the truth about the way things were before this happened.
Do we as a society really want to go back to the way things were.  We are either too afraid to speak the truth or we are accepting of it because it's too close to home or "that's their choice."
Men having sex with men.  Women having sex with women.  Abortions being accepted and normal.  The elections and political agenda, such an embarrassment and joke.  Kids vaping and dying and others kids seeing it and could care less.  Anxiety and depression being the day to day mood for most.  Opioid addictions have sky rocked.  Sexual immorality and not to mention of the inappropriate stuff on tv these days.  And that's just the short list.  We can talk about anything in the US and we do not talk about JESUS, Salvation, the Persecuted Church and the things of God.  We don't read our bible and people in so many other countries would give and arm and a leg to have one.

Pause:  Someone in North Korea, Kenya, Nigeria, Tajikistan and others would cut off a limb to have a copy of God's Word.  They would literally die today for their faith...

NOW that's News Worthy!

When I say these things, I am not judging or condemning.  The bible clearly says that without Jesus, you are already condemned.  John 3:16-18. (People rarely quote 17-18)

I am only quoting what the bible says about how we should govern our lives and calling sin what it is.  Righteous is a fancy word for "living right."  And that what He is wanting us to do.  Not just to live right but to come under His authority, admitting that we are sinners in need of a Savior.

FATHER GOD, whatever will bring you the most glory is my prayer!

That was just some things to ponder

Now...where does the sweet 16 come in?

It was my granddaughter's sweet 16th birthday on the 19th and we were unable to celebrate it in the way she wanted.  But my gracious GOD still provided.  Here is something I wrote and shared with others on Facebook:
***********************************************************************

#PSALM 66:16-20 πŸ™ŒπŸΌ♥️πŸ™ŒπŸΌ♥️πŸ™ŒπŸΌ♥️

Today I had a beautiful and blessed opportunity to talk to my granddaughters about death. Y’all don’t know my entire journey. I’ve shared portions of it in the past about how I was enjoying my sin until Jesus interrupted my life. Up until I was 42, no one shared the gospel with me. I was broken, trying to survive, doing life as best I could on my own. Looking for love in all the wrong places, all because I felt abandoned. Drinking, drugs, sex and more sex, cursing, lying, greed, pride, workaholic, etc...

I still remember how upset I was when my daughter told me she was pregnant, #both times…

That is just 1 of the reasons why I am SO #passionate about this #Savior. He surely saved #Wretch like me! If I was not a child of God, all I could do is tell my granddaughters that I love them. Hug them and kiss them and tell them how much I love them. And maybe give them some gifts and occasional money…That’s what #unsaved grandmothers do.

#ButGodAlmighty has given me the opportunity to share gospel truths with my #grangirls. If I die tonight, I will be leaving them a legacy of faith! Having had the undeserved privilege o pouring #godly truths and wisdom into their lives, again and again and again. I cannot even tell you the feelings that overwhelm me when we pray together! From years back, I never asked if they wanted to pray. I’ve always said, “Let’s pray.” And we each pray. They almost always ask for forgiveness of their sins! 😒😒😒

I fail and will fail, and they will fail, but we have a #merciful God who has forgiven our sins, past, present and future. Not because of anything we deserve. HE did it long before we were born. He knew me and He knew them long before the decision to follow Him was made. My #girls and I admitted that we were sinners and that we could not do this life apart from Jesus Christ. We acknowledged Him as the Son of God and that He was crucified, buried and resurrected! He now sits at the right hand of God the Father, just as He did before sin permeated all of mankind. I’m not bragging on me. I’m bragging on the God that #saved me! There are a lot of postings out here. Lots of stuff to read. But there’s only one #sure-thing that’s going to #save you; not from the coronavirus, but from the “lake of eternal fire!” And that is putting your faith, not in your spouse or your children, not in your career or your bank account, not in yourself or your current relationship and surely not in a statute! The only thing that’s going to #save you on the last day is the blood of Jesus and entering into a #personal relationship with Him. And that’s not a clichΓ©.  It’s a #decision of your free will to make God a priority! The Bible says everything will be put in the fire. Only those “things that were done” in the name of Jesus, for His kingdom will last. People don’t want to talk about hell or the last days. Revelation speaks all about it! Why is it that personal opinions can run to and fro but we cannot speak gospel truth without people getting offended? The answer is: Pride, fear and ignorance. I was prideful, I was afraid and I was oh so ignorant! Right where satan wanted me!TRUTH—->There is a hell, and there is a day of judgment. Yes, we know that God is love. But what is our response to that love? For such a time as this, we really need to be evaluating what we believe and why we believe. Everyone has placed their Faith in something.  I met a lady yesterday, and I tried to share the gospel with her, seeing if she was interested in praying, and she said, “I have my own beliefs!” She wanted nothing to do with me. I wasn’t mad or offended. I was sad for her. When I got in my car, I prayed that God would have mercy on her soul and show her the truth.

I know SO many of you out there know the Lord, love the Lord and are walking with the Lord. But some are deceived, and we all must be honest and say that not all of our Facebook friends and family members are Christians.

Let’s pray without ceasing for those lost souls. You are #all loved by me because HE loved me first. Let’s use this time to dig deep into the Word of God and increase of faith and strengthen our resolve to follow Him! So we can then be used by Him! I’ve had several jobs in my lifetime, one being a law enforcement officer for 25 years. The #bestjob ever is working for the Kingdom of God! Hands-down no comparison! He #alone holds the key to eternal life. Satan is offering anyone who wants it happiness, right here and right now! Similar to Sodom and Gomorrah! Just like those kids choosing to go against authority figures, and celebrating Spring Break when there is a world wide crisis at hand. One young lady said, “this is our time, here and now.”

I’m am in no way judging, it’s just proof that this flesh, if it is not under the Power and Submission of the Holy Spirit, it will not be told what to do. Paul said it in Romans chapter 7.

We have to keep praying for those around us who are perishing without a Savior! AND we have to bold, courageous and intentional about offering those who are still here the hope that we have.

May you be #encouraged by something I’ve shared! May you open your bibles and ask the Lord to speak to you! May you grieve over the lost souls from this terrible pandemic! May you not be the same as you were yesterday! AND may you settle your salvation if you’re unsure! Many truly believe that going to church, reading bible verses and even growing up in a “Christian home” makes you a believer! Nope! 100% NOT the case! The Bible says #repent and #believe! That is an independent action, choice and decision! It’s not a family deal or friendship pack! Read the gospel of John and see what you may have been misled about. Don’t you want to #know the #truth #before you die??? I was a cop and on the inside, afraid of death! Now I’m a civilian looking forward to it! ♥️ NOW THAT’S #ALL GOD!!! πŸ™ŒπŸΌπŸ™ŒπŸΌπŸ™ŒπŸΌ

Again, no one ever shared the #gospel with me. God was working on my heart, and in #2008, I (just so happened) to be listening to Christian radio and that’s when Jesus turned the LIGHTS on!!!

The news is NOT talking about Jesus and it won’t! We’re so called running low on supplies. We’re supposed to be “checks from the government” soon! None of that will save a person’s soul. Speak to a pastor or Christian coworker, friend or even a neighbor about their salvation. Almost everyone has at least one person they know the be a #Christian. Don’t be afraid or embarrassed to ask them some questions about their faith. Also there are still bibles on-line.

#CHURCH God is counting on us!



Sent with so much love, as I am interceding for you! ♥️

Neicy, the one whom Jesus loves

aka #PrincessBride


FATHER YOU DO ALL THINGS WELL AND INTENTIONAL and I say, "Thank You!"

HE Is In Complete Control

Where are all the little gods?  God Almighty is the Creator of every living being.  Not all agree, but that does not mean that it's not true.  The other day while watching the news, the female anchor said that two weeks we were living life, eating out, meeting with friends, school, work, etc...

NOTHING CATCHES THIS GOD OF MINE OFF GUARD! 

It may have appeared that we were "business" as usual. However, if you know anything about GOD and His plans for us, it was anything but.  

In December, China was in a downward spiral as the Coronavirus had viscously attacked that part of the world and caught everyone off guard.  It seemed truly unbelievable to the human ear to hear it broadcasted.  As we watched the news media report update after update and as we watched the death toll soar.  Little did we know that it was headed to the USA. 

Get this.  People are fighting over toilet tissue.  Not BIBLES but toilet tissue!!! And a local beer brewery decided to shut down his factory and make "hand sanitizer."  Yes, we are out of that too.  None in the stores and none on Amazon!

PAUSE:  For those who may thinking this seems like to END of the world.  Have you read Revelation?  There will be no one running to the grocery store for supplies and they'll be no food deliveries or drive thru prayer stations!

The world is temporarily shutting down and God is in complete control.  

My grandmother left me a voice mail stating that truth.  She is 94 and the joy in her voice was over the top contagious.  The bible commands His people to count it all joy!  It in no way means that we are not grieved over the loss of these enormous souls and that we are not concerned as this virus continues to spread at rapid speed.  

Initially it was reported to have attacked the older generation, those with preexisting medical issues, etc.  However, it turned out not to be the case.  No one is exempt...NBA players, millennials, politicians, children, physicians, celebrities, law enforcement, fire fighters, believers and non, have all been victims of this deadly disease.  

WE KNOW THAT GOD IS LOVE and YES, He so proved it went He sent us Jesus.  But before He sent us Jesus, there was a great price to pay....

REMEMBER THE CROSS?

Our God is Sovereign and this in no way some kind of punishment.  Our God has clearly made Himself known and has given us the bible as an instruction manual on how to navigate this life that "HE gave us."  And when you get to know this God, you will not blame Him for this pandemic.  He is a God who approves and He is a God who allows.  The Old Testament is a beautiful outline of both His fiery fire and His tender heart and compassion.  His Patience is unmatched for sure.

IF HE WANTED TO, He doesn't have to "allow" this virus, He could just wipe away the whole earth right now.  He could clearly rapture His church and do away with all the rest if He so pleased.

BUT that is NOT who He is.  The bible clearly says that He is not late with His "delay" simply reveals His loving patience toward you, because He does not want any to perish but all to come to repentance.  (2 Peter 3:9) TPT version.... and am I forever grateful for that verse and that truth because HE didn't have to wait for me.  #GloryHallelujah!!!  I am a child of God!

We cannot sit back and wonder why?  We can allow all kinds of questions to consume our thoughts or we can trust Him, the Creator.  His Word clearly says that on the day of judgement, every knee shall bow, in heaven, on the earth and under the earth that Jesus Christ is Lord.  But why wait til then...why put off your salvation?

PEOPLE, you can call on the name of the Lord Jesus and receive the gift of Salvation.  A gift freely offered to all of mankind, says Romans 10:9 and 10.  Ephesians goes on to say that it's a gift from Him so that you can't take credit for it and brag about yourself.  It is all about GOD and His Son being sent to save mankind.  Not from the Coronavirus but from eternal damnation and the unquenchable like of fire.  That truth is also found in the bible, the very last book where sinners refusing to repent go out in a blaze and the righteous "not perfect" but those who chose to live right by God's standard and following in the footsteps of His beloved Son, will live in eternity as one family and one church!

Maybe, just maybe God is fed up with the evil, the greed, the pride, the hatred, the rebellion, the addictions, the sexual immorality, the drug overdoses, the divorces, the abortions, the prodigals, the false religions, the idols, and anything else that has taken His rightful place in our lives.  (Matthew 22:37)

Maybe, just maybe this is being used as a MASS call to the Cross.  Maybe He is wanting people to REPENT of their SINS and admit they that have SINNED against Him.  Like King David said when he admitted his affair with Bathsheba...acknowledging that "against YOU God have I sinned." (Psalm 51)

We were all born sinners says the bible and not a lot of people want to agree with that, therefore don't seed the need for it.  Truthfully speaking, the flesh will not be told what to do...
Pause:  What about Genesis 6:5, Psalm 58:3, Ezekiel 18:20, Jeremiah 17:9, Romans 3:23, and Romans 5:12?

If you would have told me that I was a sinner or even called me one, I would have quickly become defensive, offended and disagreed.  However, if you were to walk me through gospel....now that would have been a #gamechanger.

Just maybe, God is trying to get your attention.  Maybe, just maybe, He's trying to pursue lost souls while there is still time.  Will you even consider that?  Will you investigate the truth?  Will you give great concern to what happens when you die?  And if you are already a believer, will you increase your faith, cling to His promises, pray for courage, endurance and boldness to share the gospel and to pray without ceasing for your loved ones, your acquaintances, your coworkers, your community and those outside your sphere of influence?  

If you are truly a believer, you should be a person of prayer also.  Remember when Moses interceded for millions of people?  God was fed up with their sin and complaints and Moses begged God not to kill them.  And don't forget all the prayers of the Old Testament Prophets.  Lastly, don't forget that the bible says that Elijah was just "a man" and that the prayers of a righteous person (singular) are powerful and effective.  Will you be that person...I know I will.  I know that I am.  Not by my own strength, wording or will, but solely the work of the Holy Spirt that dwells in me.  The Holy Spirit promised by my Savior before He ascended to Heaven, the night before His crucifixion.

Sent with love,
His Princess Bride

Friday, February 21, 2020

Updates...

Where to begin...

So much has happened since my last post....and I am still here only because HE has a purpose for me...

Somethings have not been good...BUT God Almighty has not changed!

"Not one promise from God is empty of power, for nothing is impossible with God!" -Luke 1:37

I'll try to give a brief caption from each month....so hard to do when GOD is always showing up, always blessing me, always faithful, always reminding me and always encouraging me!

September:  My ankle flared up so bad that I said to God, "Lord if YOU want me to serve You with one foot, I will do it!"  I still cannot believe that I said that, but I surely meant it.  The pain was unbearable and debilitating.....HE came through for me.  AND not only that, a member of my family was in distress and there was nothing I could do.  My GOD came through, as HE always does.  He said, "Beloved I AM not asleep and led me to Psalms 121!  He delivered and oh YES I DID PRAISE HIM!!!!! Even if He had not given the answer I'd hope for HE KNOWS I would have and will still #Praise Him!

October:  The enemy came again....as his tactics are to harass children of God until we see God face to face.  He hates that he's not GOD and he hates that we LOVE and WORSHIP God in spite of our circumstances!  And that's what I planned to do!  HE, GOD Almighty delivered me when I was hell bound and I have to shout from the roof top that I am HIS and HE is #forever mine!

So, the adversary of my soul tried to attack someone in my circle of love and as a result, salvation came to someone I'd been praying into God's Kingdom.  YES, Romans 8:28 is #truth!  And yes, the prayers of a righteous person are powerful and effective.  All we have to do is remain faithful and allow the work of the Holy Spirit to do His work! (John 5:17)

November:  This past Thanksgiving I was feeling blue inside....and MY GOD turned it into pure #JesusJoy!  My #grangirls and I had so much laughter, a beautiful pink sunset, yummy homemade yams, delicious dessert and we played several card games....no cell phones....just lots of love....and yes, a #penny at the end!  I cannot believe I forgot how to play spades when I used to be the champion! Lol

December:  I love the freedom I now have about not buying Christmas gifts.  It is Jesus' Birthday.  What's with spending all this money for everybody...?!  "I'm just saying..."
I love that God has created me this way....
I still have a few people pleasing issues and He's working on me, but this "overspending and stressing" over Christmas.... SO NOT ME #anyomore!  YAY and Thank YOU Jesus!
Stopped by the nursing home to give Mary her journal.  Visited mommy and then the #grangirls.  We had laughter and prayer!  Thank YOU God for giving me a priceless chance to love on my girls with the gospel truth and to leave a legacy of faith.  I had no clue....I still weep that we get to pray in the name of Jesus.

I still remember how upset I was discovering that my daughter was pregnant, both times.  So not wanting her to repeat the "so-called" mistakes that I had made.  YOU knew, says Psalms 139... You knew that I would have these precious girls and You knew that Jesus would be our Lord and that He would hear our prayers and walk alongside us in this life's journey, day after day, even when life hurts...and especially when we do not understand....
God YOU are #foreverfaithful and I love YOU!

BTW I woke up to a text on the 29th, from my sweet son saying, "Hey ma, I decided to get baptized today.  Can you make it?!"
GLORY HALLELUJAH!  Answer to a mama's prayer!!!

January:  WOW what a beautiful gift that YOU gave me in my friendship with #myMissy!  We had such a girl's weekend.  I mean seriously, she is the only one that can get me to eat cheesecake for breakfast.
Not only that, on New Years Eve, we pulled an all-nighter! Lol
The dinner was not good. The key lime pie was a 9! The fellowship was the same "unforgettable, authentic, honest, funny, tearful and love-filled!
We stayed up until 5:30.  So much fun! Yummy much needed girl time!!!  Then on New Years Day, after our dessert and coffee, we met with the Lord and interceded for over 500 people, crying out to God for their salvation. LORD JESUS every single one of those names are a soul to YOU and matter!  We prayed in the power of the Holy Spirit and we are trusting God's Divine will for each life.

February:  It is still February and YES Jesus did spoil me on Valentine's Day!  JUST like He always does!  HE #created LOVE!  Diamonds, chocolate, jewelry and a night on the town ain't got NOTHING on our Savior and what He did on the Cross!  He wants to love each and every person into the Kingdom of GOD.  And that LOVE is life-sustaining and eternal.  GLORY TO GOD in the Highest!

God Your PRESENCE in my life is something I could never fully put into words.  YOUR holy scriptures are my blood-line pumping through my veins.  I need to know the truth daily.  I don't need the world's view, personal opinions and "feel good" stuff....I will never, ever forget when I read for the first time in the book of Romans when Paul said, "Sin deceived me."  I want to know the truth even when it hurts.  TRUTH saves lives and truth yields complete freedom!  I have never, ever felt so free and so confident about anything in my entire life.  I declare with every fiber of my being that because of the finished work on the Cross that JESUS Christ is the way, the truth and the life.  By faith, I have put my trust in Him and by faith, I believe that He is coming back for His church and will judge the unbelieving world.

I believe that today is the day of Salvation and God is not slow in keeping His promise but wanting none to perish and all to come to repentance.

Father GOD keep pursing this world until all have heard and have a chance to accept or reject Your love.  May every tribe, tongue and nation have ears to hear what the Spirit is saying!  In the name of Jesus' I pray!  Amen!

Eternally yours