Psalm 11 - "We Won't Be Shaken"

God's creation is so awesome! I love to see it in person but when friends send me pictures like this one I am so appreciative. A young man from my church knows I am not normally out and about early in the morning so he shared it with me. What blessings God puts in my life every day! I am one blessed lady! Yesterday I was able to preach what He gave me and even had fellowship with some over lunch. After getting home I slept two hours and stayed in bed the rest of the day only to sleep ten hours last night. I was so tired and God provided what was needed. He took me to Psalm 11 this morning to remind me of how I need to continued to trust Him. A couple weeks ago I remember making the statement from the pulpit that I was tired of fighting the enemy. When I look around my little church, I see many in the same shoes. But we cannot quit the fight. We cannot give up but instead need to stand firm in our faith. Yesterday's sermon reiterated how Paul was so proud of the church of Thessalonica. They showed great faith through times of persecution. Their great love for the Lord was given freely. The way they lived their life gave them great hope in eternal life with the Father. These attributes of the Thessalonians are ones all need to live by. We all need to trust God through the storms of life so He not only gets us through such storms but He is glorified through them. Woo hoo! I love how King David begins Psalm 11. I am already in the soft embrace of the Eternal.. The secret to living is found in His presence. As we live in His presence we will experience our faith going deeper and our trust growing stronger. I am so thankful for my relationship with Him. I am thankful for the way He loves on me through others, music, His Word, etc. I am thankful He strengthens my faith so I can be the person He desires me to be. Plain and simple, I am thankful. I am reminded of a song called "We Won't Be Shaken" and am thankful I mean it when I sing it.

You know my every longing
You've heard my every prayer
You've held me in my weakness
Cause You are always there
So I'll stand in full surrender
It's Your way and not my own
My mind is set on nothing less
Than You and You alone
I will not be moved oh

Whatever will come our way
Through fire or pouring rain
We won't be shaken
No we won't be shaken
Whatever tomorrow brings
Together we'll rise and sing
That we won't be shaken
No we won't be shaken

Trusting the Lord with every aspect of our life is key to living in peace. His peace is present in the midst of the storms of life when we allow Him to be Who He desires to be in our life. Praise His Holy Name! 

Dear Jesus, Thank You for Psalm 11 that reminds me to trust You! Thank You for "We Won't Be Shaken" that encourages me to lean into You no matters what happens! Thank You for the rest You provided as my body continues to heal! Thank You for the encouragement I receive from many who pray for me, help me, etc.! Thank You for the strength to preach yesterday and for the feedback I received from the message! Lord, cleanse me so You can fill me. I pray people will see/hear You instead of me today. May You shine brightly through my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts. Thank You for the opportunity my friend Clay has today! What a blessing he is to me and our church. Thank You for building our church spiritually! Thank You for all the ways You bless us! Lord, I pray for many going through 'tough' days to trust You. I pray protection over those who will be hit with a winter storm this week. I especially pray for my Momma to not lose electric. I pray continued prayers for: her; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Tony and Madeline; Pete and Delores; Steve;  Cait; Mike; Norma Hall; Little Jensen who needs a heart; Sharon Sebolt and her Momma Shirley; the Pottenger Family; Serena and her husband; some young ladies with anxiety; a man in rehab for anger issues; a young man out of rehab who needs strength in his daily walk; a husband/father separated from his wife; Mary Lilly; Kristen Batten; those with COVID either themselves or in their family; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many who are dealing with 'c' and/or going through treatments...Doug and Gay; Sharon's daughter Ashley and niece Amy; Chrissy's cousins; George and Sharon; Cait's friend with leukemia; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Elaine Stoltzfus; Tammie; Little Ivy; Betty's friend in New York' and my friend recently diagnosed with mesothelioma. I pray for: Jonathan whose mother was diagnosed with a brain tumor; Little Henry and Noel who had heart surgeries; a set of twins who were born premature; and a young Momma in premature labor. Oh Lord, be so close to these families. So, so many hurting situations. Lord, continue to be with Anna, Michael, Matt, and myself on this journey of grief without my Rickey. Thank You for the pictures, texts, songs, memories, etc. we have to treasure. Thank You for being The One I Trust! Amen.

Hebrews 10 - "Tell You Heart to Beat Again"

Before going to bed, during the night, and again this morning I prayed for pastors. I also prayed for those who will be in services today to truly listen to what the Lord has for them. This morning I woke up to a song Danny Gokey sings called "Tell Your Heart To Beat Again" and it made me pray more for people who have fallen away from God. I was reminded yesterday of so many who have quit going to church. Some quit because of COVID yet even when they had opportunity to be in church when numbers were down they still stayed away. Paul tells us in Hebrews 10:25 that we need to not give up gathering together with other believers. Verses nineteen through the end of this chapter is entitled "A Call to Persevere in Faith" in the NIV. We all need to persevere through everything that comes our way. We need to allow God to be our strength through 'tough' days. We need to seek and follow His wisdom with all decisions made. Sometimes life is 'tough' but it is in such times our faith is taken deeper. We have to get to the point where we depend upon God and not ourselves if we want to persevere through life. God does not make 'bad' things happen to us but He allows them. This morning the sermon God has given me to preach is "I Am The Door." At the beginning of the week I questioned whether I would be well enough to preach today. Actually, I am still questioning my strength but God will provide because He told me I was to go. This Scripture reminds me of Jesus being my Door. In verse twenty it speaks of Him being a new and living way opened for us through the curtain. Woo hoo! Yes! He is the Door I desire to walk through each and every day. I am so thankful I have made this decision and I pray for more to make it too. Gokey's song goes...

Tell your heart to beat again
Close your eyes and breathe it in
Let the shadows fall away
Step into the light of grace
Yesterday's a closing door
You don't live there anymore
Say goodbye to where you've been
And tell your heart to beat again

Let every heartbreak
And every scar
Be a picture that reminds you
Who has carried you this far
'Cause love sees farther than you ever could
In this moment heaven's working
Everything for your good

Woo hoo! All can experience this life! All we have to do is repent and ask Jesus into our heart. We must do this daily so we can be who He has called us to be. I am so thankful for the confidence I have in the Lord (vs 19) that allows me to walk through the Door anytime of the day or night. I am grateful for His faithfulness in our relationship (vs 23) and I am grateful for the knowledge of eternal life with Him (vs 37). Praise His Holy Name!

Dear Jesus,

Thank You for the strength You will provide for me to preach today! Thank You for the way You are going to remove this headache from me! Thank You for all the ways You speak to me through Scripture, music and other people! I praise You for Who You are in my life and for the ways You encourage me to be who You desire me to be. Lord, cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of You. I pray every pastor who preaches today will be filled with the Holy Spirit. I pray each one of us will speak what You desire and not what we think needs said. Lord, thank You for continuing to be with Anna, Michael, Matt, and myself on this journey of grief. It warms my heart to see pictures and talk about my Rickey with them. Thank You for putting them into my life! I know it is part of Your plan for my healing. I pray for many who need to realize You are doing things in their life through the 'tough' days they are experiencing. My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Tony and Madeline; Cait; Mike; Norma Hall; Little Jensen who needs a heart; Sharon Sebolt and her Momma Shirley; the Pottenger Family; Serena and her husband; some young ladies with anxiety; a man in rehab for anger issues; a young man out of rehab who needs strength in his daily walk; a husband/father separated from his wife; Mary Lilly; Kristen Batten; those with COVID either themselves or in their family; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many who are dealing with 'c' and/or going through treatments...Doug and Gay; Sharon's daughter Ashley and niece Amy; Chrissy's cousins; George and Sharon; Cait's friend with leukemia; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Elaine Stoltzfus; Tammie; Little Ivy; Betty's friend in New York' and my friend recently diagnosed with mesothelioma. I pray for: Jonathan whose mother was diagnosed with a brain tumor; Little Henry and Noel who had heart surgeries; a set of twins who were born premature; and a young Momma in premature labor. Oh Lord, be so close to these families. So, so many hurting situations. Thank You for being My Door! Amen.

Psalm 48 - "Weary Traveler"

The Lord took me to Psalm 48 this morning. This Psalm encourages us to praise God no matter what is happening in life. I was reading Matthew Henry's thoughts on this Psalm. He wrote: Happy the kingdom, the city, the family, the heart, in which God is great, in which he is all. There God is known. The clearer discoveries are made to us of the Lord and his greatness, the more it is expected that we should abound in his praises. These words made me think about how the closer I am in relationship to God the more responsible I am to praise Him in the storms of life. Henry continues, Nothing in nature can more fitly represent the overthrow of heathenism by the Spirit of the gospel, than the wreck of a fleet in a storm. Both are by the mighty power of the Lord. This reminds me of last week's sermon. I spoke of how the enemy has taken what God has made as good and turned it into perverted, crooked 'junk' of the world. This Psalm encourages us to never forget what God has done for us (vs 9). He also encourages us to remember earth is not our final home when we are in relationship with Him (vs 14). Praise His Holy Name! I love how Henry describes God. This God, who has now done such great things for us, is unchangeable in his love to us, and his care for us. If he is our God, he will lead and keep us even to the last. He will so guide us, as to set us above the reach of death, so that it shall not do us any real hurt. He will lead us to a life in which there shall be no more death. I am so grateful for this knowledge. I am grateful my Daddy, Doc, and my Rickey are spending eternity with God. My heart breaks for those who are not in relationship with Him and headed to hell. It breaks for those who have walked away from Him. It breaks for those who refuse to listen to what He gives me to share with them. The tears fall for those who are living in this perverse world instead of living a different life with Him. I am so thankful to know I am just here for a 'short' time in the sense that I will not have to live in the 'junk' of the world forever. But I am sadden to think of how many people I may miss in sharing the Gospel with and in turn they will not experience eternal life with my Heavenly Daddy. I am reminded of the words of "Weary Traveler" this morning as I ponder upon Psalm 48. I need to get better at using the time God gives me on this earth to make Kingdom differences in people's lives. I need to not allow the enemy any open door that will stop me from proclaiming the Gospel. When I become weary, I need to allow God to give me a dose of His supernatural empowerment to be the lady He has called me to be.

Weary traveller, restless soul
You were never meant to walk this road alone
It'll all be worth it so just hold on
Weary traveler, you won't be weary long

Dear Jesus, Thank You for Your continued healing on my body from this virus! Father, I pray today will be the day the headache is gone but if that is not in Your plan then I pray You will give me exactly what I need to not just get through the day but to glorify You through it. I pray for Your touch as I finish tomorrow's sermon. Lord, my heart hurts for so many who refuse You, walked away from You, living with the world a part of their life instead of You, etc. It hurts to know I miss opportunities You give me to shine brightly for You. This virus has dimmed my light but I pray You will show me how I can shine brightly for You once again. Even though I will not leave the house again today I pray for opportunities to love on people with Your love. Father, cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of You. I pray for Your peace, strength, and empowerment over many going through 'tough' days. I especially pray for those on the road of grief to realize You in a mighty way. I pray for Anna, Michael, Matt, and myself as we continue this road of life without my Rickey. These days of being in bed have brought back so many memories of the time he was in my life. I am so grateful for those memories but oh how I miss his calls, texts, etc. I also have prayed for so many who need Your touch. My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Tony and Madeline; Cait; Mike; Norma Hall; Little Jensen who needs a heart; Sharon Sebolt and her Momma Shirley; the Pottenger Family; Serena and her husband; some young ladies with anxiety; a man in rehab for anger issues; a young man out of rehab who needs strength in his daily walk; a husband/father separated from his wife; Mary Lilly; Kristen Batten; those with COVID either themselves or in their family; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many who are dealing with 'c' and/or going through treatments...Doug and Gay; Sharon's daughter Ashley and niece Amy; Chrissy's cousins; George and Sharon; Cait's friend with leukemia; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Elaine Stoltzfus; Tammie; Little Ivy; Betty's friend in New York' and my friend recently diagnosed with mesothelioma. I pray for: Jonathan whose mother was diagnosed with a brain tumor; Little Henry and Noel who had heart surgeries; a set of twins who were born premature; and a young Momma in premature labor. Oh Lord, be so close to these families. So, so many hurting situations. Thank You for being My Eternity! Amen. 

II Chronicles 20:15 - "Even At My Worst"

This week has been hard with being in bed with a virus. I do not know when I have slept as much as this but they say sleeping is healing. I am so blessed with having many in my life who check on me, pick up things from the store, etc. My tribe are the best! Each day when I would wake I would think about writing my blog but it did not happen. I felt 'bad' because of not writing. I felt 'bad' because I felt like I was letting the Lord down. He kept bringing the same song to my mind, "Even At My Worst"...

Even at my worst You love me
You wrap Your arms around and You hold me close
Even at my worst You give
Something I don't deserve
You love me even at my worst

I had times this week of crying because I felt so bad physically and that caused me to be emotional. I had times when I got crabby with people who meant well with what they were telling me to do. My emotions were all over the board throughout these last days. I listened to songs my Rickey sent me and read texts he sent. I looked through pictures of the memories we made. Once again, I got angry with his dying from COVID. So many emotions were experienced over these days of being in bed. I cried when I thought about times in the past of having a 'bug' and the MS taking over and having to go to therapy to get my strength back. I wanted to push myself yet until yesterday I could not. Thankfully, yesterday I did have what it took to get up and move some. I was able to get in over 5000 steps. Praise God! That is only half my 'norm' but it was better than earlier in the week. Perhaps even greater than the physical issues is the mental issue of not being able to concentrate. I tried to read but I struggled and gave up. I tried to write but once again struggled and gave up. I am thankful God continues to love on me through such times. I also am thankful the COVID test was negative. This virus was enough for me! I sit here and think of the day ahead and pray I can get up and move like yesterday. I pray I have what I need mentally to finish Sunday's sermon. I pray God will continue to encourage me as I bask in His presence through this virus. I have been repeatedly reminded of II Chronicles 20:15. No matter what battle we are going through in life it is God's. He is in control as we allow Him to be. Woo hoo!

Dear Jesus,

Thank You for the reminder of II Chronicles 20:15! Thank You for the song "Even At My Worst" You kept before me this week! Thank You for the 5000+ steps I got in yesterday and for the way You are going to increase that amount today! Thank You for the nausea being gone and for the way You will alleviate the headache soon! Thank You for a negative COVID test! Thank You for encouraging my heart through so many who love on me with Your love! Father, cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of You! Even though I will not leave the house today I pray You will use me in some way to shine brightly for You. I feel like my light has been too dim this week but I know You will restore it. Lord, there are so many people going through 'tough' days. May Your presence be felt greatly by all. My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Tony and Madeline; Cait; Mike; Norma Hall; Little Jensen who needs a heart; Sharon Sebolt and her Momma Shirley; the Pottenger Family; Serena and her husband; some young ladies with anxiety; a man in rehab for anger issues; a young man out of rehab who needs strength in his daily walk; a husband/father separated from his wife; Mary Lilly; Kristen Batten; those with COVID either themselves or in their family; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many who are dealing with 'c' and/or going through treatments...Doug and Gay; Sharon's daughter Ashley and niece Amy; Chrissy's cousins; George and Sharon; Cait's friend with leukemia; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Elaine Stoltzfus; Tammie; Little Ivy; Betty's friend in New York' and my friend recently diagnosed with mesothelioma. I pray for: Jonathan whose mother was diagnosed with a brain tumor; Little Henry and Noel who had heart surgeries; a set of twins who were born premature; and a young Momma in premature labor. Oh Lord, be so close to these families. So, so many hurting situations. I continue to pray for Anna, Michael, Matt, and myself as we continue this journey of grief. Thank You for the story Kelly shared with me yesterday about my Rickey! What a treasure! Thank You for being My Healer! Amen. 

Psalm 19 - "The Blessing Song"

Before I went to bed, during the night, and again this morning God brought to my mind to pray for pastors. There are so many going through 'tough' times with COVID in themselves or their families, other diseases, family issues, financial issues, church issues...the list goes on and on. We must all remember to lean into God for His strength, wisdom, and love to not just get us through such times but to glorify Him through them. We can look all around us at any given time and see God's hand at work. We see His work in the beauty of His creation. We see it through other people and in circumstances that do not make sense. He is with us at all time and desires to love on us. This morning He took me to Psalm 19. Verse eight spoke volumes to me. I read it in different versions to get the 'just' of it. It reads in the NIV: The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are radiant, giving light to the eyes. David wrote about how everything the Lord gives us to read and ponder upon is perfect. He directs us to exactly what we need. Verse seven describes God's Word as the law and statutes. Verse eight describes it as precepts and commands. It does not matter what word is used for it. His Word is a gift we have before us to read at any given time. Verse eight in The Passion Translation tells us His Word makes us joyful. Even when we have fallen and go before Him to repent we still have joy in our heart because of His love, mercy, and grace. When we go before Him with a hurting heart, He gives us joy through His Word that encourages us. The more i am in His Word the more comfort and peace I receive on this journey of grief. God is so, so good at providing exactly what I need. Verse thirteen in Psalm 19 reminds me of the need to stay close to God. I ask Him every morning to cleanse me so He can fill me. I desire to walk in obedience to His will and the only way for that to happen is to stay focused on Him.  Verse fourteen of this Psalm is my prayer. It reads in the New King James Version: Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my strength and my Redeemer. I pray this prayer over all pastors who are going into the pulpit today. May we all have our focus on Him. I am reminded of a song Kari Jobe sings called "The Blessing Song" and am praying it over all this morning...

May His favor be upon you
And a thousand generations
And your family and your children
And their children, and their children

May His presence go before you
And behind you and beside you
All around you and within you
He is with you, He is with you
In the morning, in the evening
In your coming and your going
In your weeping and rejoicing
He is for you, He is for you

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the opportunity to pray for pastors before going to bed, during the night, and again this morning! Thank You for the privilege I have to be in the pulpit this morning! Thank You for Psalm 19 that reminds me of the importance of being in Your Word! Thank You for the comfort it gives me on this journey of grief! I pray continued peace for Anna, Michael, Matt, and myself. May we remember the good memories of my Rickey and find ways to honor his memory. I pray the same for all who have lost loved ones. COVID is a hard illness to deal with but I know You are with all of us. Father, cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of You. I pray people will see/hear You instead of me. I pray Your words will not only be what I say today from the pulpit but will also be embraced by all who hear them. Lord, may Your words be greater than the hurts of life. I pray for those going through 'tough' days to realize Your love to a greater depth. My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Tony and Madeline; Cait; Mike; Norma Hall; Little Jensen who needs a heart; Sharon Sebolt and her Momma Shirley; the Pottenger Family; Serena and her husband; some young ladies with anxiety; a man in rehab for anger issues; a young man out of rehab who needs strength in his daily walk; a husband/father separated from his wife; Kristen Batten; those with COVID either themselves or in their family; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many who are dealing with 'c' and/or going through treatments...Doug and Gay; Sharon's daughter Ashley and niece Amy; Chrissy's cousins; George and Sharon; Cait's friend with leukemia; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Elaine Stoltzfus; Tammie; Little Ivy; Betty's friend in New York' and my friend recently diagnosed with mesothelioma. I pray for: Jonathan whose mother was diagnosed with a brain tumor; Little Henry and Noel who had heart surgeries; and a set of twins who were born premature. Oh Lord, be so close to these families. So, so many hurting situations. I pray extra strength for Pastor Steve who will be preaching for his first time since going through COVID and for Pastor Mike who continues to recuperate from it. Thank You for being All I Need! Amen. 

Psalm 139:13 - "Thank You"

Today is my Momma's ninety-first birthday! Woo hoo! I always say when I grow up I want to be like her. She is one tough cookie! The reason she is tough is because she leans into the Lord's strength. She has been through so much in her long life but God has been with her every step of the way. My Daddy and her were the perfect couple. They loved each other well but most importantly they loved the Lord and allowed Him to be in charge of life. Giving came/comes naturally for both of them and for that I am grateful. Someone once asked me why I seemed to feel comfortable in a hospital or funeral home setting. I spent time in both places with my parents. Their multiple health issues put us in hospitals a lot. Their love for people put us at calling hours and funerals for people we did not even know. My Momma after raising the first four children worked hard to get her GED so she could go on to get her LPN license. After health issues that caused her to no longer be in the nursing field she took college classes so she could do social work at the nursing home. She never gave up. She is tired of living and keeps asking why God still has her here. She answers that question herself with 'He still has things for me to do.' It saddens my heart to see her struggling and no longer have the 'get up and go' she used to have but I keep reminding myself of her age. I am so grateful for her being my Momma. God did good when He gave her to me! I am grateful for all the things she taught me growing up but most especially I am thankful for the way she taught me to love the Lord and allow Him to be in charge of life. I am reminded of a song Ray Boltz sings called "Thank You" as I think about my Momma. 

Thank you for giving to the Lord
I am a life that was changed
Thank you for giving to the Lord
I am so glad you gave

One by one they came
Far as the eyes could see
Each life somehow touched
By your generosity
Little things that you had done
Sacrifices made
Unnoticed on the earth
In heaven now proclaimed

So many lives touched by my Momma over the years. She loves people so well but especially loves them with the love of the Lord. What a great example to have in life!

Dear Jesus, Thank You for loving me so well with the gift of my dear Momma! I pray she will be blessed in abundance today as she celebrates her 91st birthday! Oh how I wish I could be with her but am thankful my sister Linda was able to go. Thank You for all the ways You love on me through my Momma and all the ways You love on her every day! Thank You for the example of how to live in You that she gives me every day! Father, encourage her greatly on the 'tough' days of life. I pray the same for: My sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; Ben; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Tony and Madeline; Cait; Mike; Norma Hall; Little Jensen who needs a heart; Sharon Sebolt and her Momma Shirley; the Pottenger Family; Serena and her husband; some young ladies with anxiety; a man in rehab for anger issues; a young man out of rehab who needs strength in his daily walk; a husband/father separated from his wife; Kristen Batten; those with COVID either themselves or in their family; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many who are dealing with 'c' and/or going through treatments...Doug and Gay; Sharon's daughter Ashley and niece Amy; Chrissy's cousins; George and Sharon; Cait's friend with leukemia; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Elaine Stoltzfus; Tammie; Little Ivy; Betty's friend in New York' and my friend recently diagnosed with mesothelioma. I pray for: Jonathan whose mother was diagnosed with a brain tumor; Little Henry and Noel who had heart surgeries this week; and a set of twins who were born premature yesterday. Oh Lord, be so close to these families. So, so many hurting situations. Cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of You. Thank You for being with me yesterday when the tears fell with the reminders from life without my Rickey! Lord, some days are just harder than others. I pray You will continue to be with Anna, Michael, Matt, and myself on this grief journey. Thank You for being The One Who Blesses Me! Amen.

Romans 12:1-2 - "Even At My Worst"

I woke up with Romans 12:1-2 on my mind and immediately started praying for believers who are conforming to the ways of the world. We are all guilty of this but if we truly desire to live in God's will we will strive to be a reflection of Him. He would not tear people down but instead would lift them up. He would not use language that would offend others. He would not allow His children to listen, watch, or play games/shows with violence, bad language, etc. God gives us an example to follow. I am not nearly offended by someone who does not portray themselves as a follower of Christ and does such things as I am of someone proclaiming to be a follower of His. When we accept Him in our heart, He will transform us as we allow Him. Each and every day may be a struggle with people we are around, listen to, etc. but we do not have to give into the 'junk' of the world. Recently I had an opportunity to be invited to a gathering where there were things not of Christ happening. I went and I had a good time. I did not participate in those things but neither did I have a judgmental attitude toward those who did participate. This week's sermon is entitled "I Am The Light of the World." That is exactly who Jesus is. As His reflection we need to be lights in this world. If we are conforming to the ways of the world, our lights will be dimmed and sometimes even go out. Shame on us for allowing this to happen. There is a difference in living in the world and living as the world. We need to remember God is with us at all time to give us direction, wisdom, and strength to face anything. He is there to love us through times when we cave into the ways of the world. I am reminded this morning of the song "Even At My Worst"....

When I feel pressure
You reach out, You pull me back together
Who You are to me nothing can measure
If I have You, I have everything that I need

When I fall down
You pick me up
When I feel small
You're big enough
I'm standing strong
And it's because of You

Through my trouble
And my flaws
Yeah, You see above it all
I'm standing strong
And it's because of You

Even at my worst You love me
You wrap Your arms around and You hold me close
Even at my worst You give
Something I don't deserve
You love me even at my worst

Yes! No matter what we do, God is there to pick up up. We need to repent daily for both the known and the unknown sins of life. When we start with a 'clean slate' each day, He can use us mightily. Woo hoo! I am so grateful for the way He loves me even when I miss opportunities He gives me. I am grateful He loves on me when I feel down. I am grateful for the wisdom and direction He gives me. Plain and simple. I am grateful.

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the opportunities to love with Your love yesterday and the ones ahead today! I am not sure if I will leave the house today but I am sure You will love through me whether I do or not. Cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of You. May You ooze out of my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts in the day ahead. So many times yesterday You brought my Rickey to my mind. Oh how I miss hearing his voice. Thank You for the saved voice mail I listen to! I pray You will continue to be with Anna, Michael, Matt, and myself on this journey of grief. I pray the same for many going through days of grief. Every time I turn around it seems like there is another death. Lord, I pray for all to be ready for You. We never know when You will call us home. I also pray for those going through 'tough' days to lean into Your strength. My Momma, my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; Ben; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Tony and Madeline; Cait; Mike; Norma Hall; Little Jensen who needs a heart; Sharon Sebolt and her Momma Shirley; the Pottenger Family; Serena's husband; some young ladies with anxiety; a man in rehab for anger issues; a young man out of rehab who needs strength in his daily walk; a husband/father separated from his wife; Kristen Batten; those with COVID either themselves or in their family; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many who are dealing with 'c' and/or going through treatments...Doug and Gay; Sharon's daughter Ashley and niece Amy; Chrissy's cousins; George and Sharon; Cait's friend with leukemia; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Elaine Stoltzfus; Tammie; Little Ivy; Betty's friend in New York' and my friend recently diagnosed with mesothelioma. I pray for: Jonathan whose mother was diagnosed with a brain tumor and Little Henry and Noel who had heart surgeries this week. Oh Lord, be so close to these families. So, so many hurting situations. Thank You for Marion going to PT without too much problems yesterday and for Cyndi going home! Thank You for the items You took me to yesterday to buy for shoeboxes! Woo hoo! Thank You for being The One Who Loves Me! Amen.

Psalm 61 - "My Story"

This morning God spoke to my friend Kim as she prayed for me. He gave her Isaiah 61 for me. This Scripture was given to me in the fall of 2015 when God spoke to me about how I was going to tell my story in the days ahead. He diid not give me details but instead said, "Daughter, you will receive My direction soon." I try to live out my faith every day but I know I need to get better at doing so. I interweave my story into many conversations. My life has been challenging but blessed. It has included: sexual abuse as a child, divorce, diagnosis of MS, diagnosis of breast cancer, death of my Daddy, Doc, and my Rickey. I can relate to many people through these experiences. Most of all I can share God's love with them to help them find peace in life so they can tell their story. God desires to love on us through 'tough' days. He desires to speak to us and then watch us walk in obedience to Him. Kim wrote, "As I prayed for you this morning, renew, restore and beauty for ashes came to my mind and heart. Isaiah 61" Woo hoo! As I read these first few verses of Isaiah 61 I see things I need to continue to do in life. First I need to ask God to cleanse me each day so I can receive what He has in store for me. Secondly, I need to proclaim good news (vs 1) to all I meet. As I do people's lives will be changed. Thirdly, I need to live as verse three describes as being a Mighty Oak of Righteousness, planted by Yehweh as a living display of His glory (TPT). The oak tree is strong. I need to lean into His strength so I can be strong too. The way I can have is strength is by keeping my focus on Him. I need to be intentional to allow Him to turn beauty for ashes...joy for mourning...praise for despair. I don't know what God has ahead but He knows and that is all that matters. I look forward to seeing where He leads me and who He leads me to. I know He has a plan. I also know He is with me and loving on me continually. There are days where it is tougher to put one foot in front of the other but I continue on because that is what He desires me to do. I also know it is what my Daddy, Doc, and Rickey would want me to do. They each encouraged me to not allow MS to take over. On days where I just wanted to stay in bed I can still hear my Daddy say, "Now Sheila Babe, it's ok to rest but you can't stay there. You have to move so the MS doesn't win." My reply would be that I knew that but some days were harder than others. He would always tell me I was not alone. Praise God for my earthly Daddy who loved me greatly and for my Heavenly Daddy who loves me more than I can imagine. I am reminded of a song Big Daddy Weave sings called "My Story" and am so grateful I can sing it knowing it to be the truth.

If I told you my story
You would hear Hope that wouldn't let go
And if I told you my story
You would hear Love that never gave up
And if I told you my story
You would hear Life, but it wasn't mine

If I should speak then let it be
Of the grace that is greater than all my sin
Of when justice was served and where mercy wins
Of the kindness of Jesus that draws me in
Oh to tell you my story is to tell of Him

Dear Jesus,

Thank You for my friend Kim who shared with me Psalm 61 this morning! I desire to be like the mighty oak that stands in Your strength for Your glory. Lord, I pray a cleansing in my spirit so I can live as You desire me to live. I pray people will see/hear You instead of me. Lord, I pray Marion goes to PT easily today but if that is not the case then give me Your love and wisdom in abundance with her. I pray for Noel who is having heart surgery right now. May You guide the doctor's hands and give them Your wisdom. I pray for Baby Henry who had heart surgery this week and continues to do well. I pray wisdom for the doctors for his care. I pray for a dear friend who is going through a tough time with her son's health issues. Lord, be so near to all. I pray the same for so many going through 'tough' days. My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; Ben; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Tony and Madeline; Cait; Mike; Norma Hall; Little Jensen who needs a heart; Sharon Sebolt and her Momma Shirley; the Pottenger Family; Serena's husband; some young ladies with anxiety; a man in rehab for anger issues; a young man out of rehab who needs strength in his daily walk; a husband/father separated from his wife; Cyndi; Kristen Batten; those with COVID either themselves or in their family; Ms. Savon; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many who are dealing with 'c' and/or going through treatments...Doug and Gay; Sharon's daughter Ashley and niece Amy; Chrissy's cousins; George and Sharon; Cait's friend with leukemia; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Elaine Stoltzfus; Tammie; Little Ivy; Betty's friend in New York' and my friend recently diagnosed with mesothelioma. I pray for Jonathan whose mother was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Oh Lord, be so close to this family. So, so many hurting situations. Thank You for continuing to be what Anna, Michael, Matt, and myself on this journey of grief! Some days are just harder than others but may we all bask in the good memories we have of my Rickey. Thank You for being My Story! Amen.

Psalm 64; II Timothy 1:7; James 1:2-4 - "Thy Will"

I am struggling yet I know I need to press into the Lord for His wisdom and strength. I know He loves me and I can feel that love. He is the Almighty who is greater than anything the enemy can put in our path. He took me to Psalm 64 this morning. David is tired of being attacked by his enemies and laments to God. Matthew Henry describes this Psalm: The psalmist earnestly begs of God to preserve him from disquieting fear. I looked up the definition of disquieting and found: Causing mental trouble or anguish; upsetting; making uneasy. COVID is making me feel this way. Hearing of loved ones with it brings back memories of my Rickey struggling and dying with it. Hearing of damaged lungs breaks my heart. I know I need to stand upon II Timothy 1:7 now more than ever before. I know I need to allow God to soothe the hurts of life. I know He will do these things for me. Plain and simple. I know. I just have to do it. The enemy would like nothing better than to have an open door to play havoc in my life. I cannot allow that to happen. Last night I wanted to participate in a zoom meeting and had all good intentions of doing so. When it came down to the time to sign-up, it was too overwhelming so I did not do so. I want to get back into doing such things and pray about it. I felt like God was encouraging me to do so but then I felt like I did not have the mental nor emotional energy to do so. Doing life is harder some days than others. It is a bit discouraging at times. I know beyond a shadow of a doubt God is with me and He gives me peace every day. He puts people in my life who encourage me greatly. He brings Scripture and songs before me. When He told me to ponder upon Psalm 64 this morning, I went to it and read it in different versions. It seems like a 'downer' of a Psalm yet David was feeling much like I am feeling. He was tired of being attacked by his enemies. David asked God to deliver him from his enemies in the first part of the Psalm and then shows expectation of that deliverance in the second part. That is exactly what we all need to do when feeling overwhelmed. We need to pray and to expect answers to our prayers. The 'enemies' in our life will strengthen our faith. Enemies are not always in the form of people but can be circumstances. COVID is a real enemy in life right now. It makes me uneasy because of the loss of my Rickey from it. It gives me anguish to think of the 'what ifs' with it. I must remember God is greater than COVIID. He is greater than anything the enemy puts before me. The words to a song Hilary Scott sings called "Thy Will" are on my mind this morning....

I’m so confused
I know I heard You loud and clear
So, I followed through
Somehow I ended up here
I don’t wanna think
I may never understand
That my broken heart is a part of Your plan
When I try to pray
All I’ve got is hurt and these four words

Thy will be done
Thy will be done
Thy will be done

His will is exactly what I pray for my life. I desire to walk in His will as I strive to be obedient to Him. I may not understand the mountains and valleys of life but He knows all. I may not understand why He gave me such a short time with my Rickey but He knows. I may not understand the feelings I am having but He knows. Plain and simple. He knows all and He will see me through these 'tough' days. Praise His Holy Name! I will stand upon Psalm 64:9. It reads in the NIV: All mankind will fear; they will proclaim the works of God and ponder what he has done. This verse does not mean I will fear what is ahead. It means I will revere God as I live for Him. I love the word ponder is in this verse with it being my word for 2022. The more I focus on Him the less I will be uneasy with life. I know these things but sometimes God needs to remind me. 

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the opportunities to love on people yesterday and the ones ahead today! I want to pray for today to be an easier day yet I know it is during the 'tough' days that my faith is stretched. Father, You know the concerns I have with loved ones with COVID. I pray for Your supernatural empowerment to give me exactly what I need to not allow the enemy an open door. When I hear of COVID, my mind goes to my Rickey's last days on this earth. Quiet my fears and give me exactly what I need to not just get through these days but for You to be glorified through them. Cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of You. May I lean into James 1:2-4 more than ever before as You work in and through me. I pray the same for many going through 'tough' days. My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; Ben; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Tony and Madeline; Cait; Mike; Norma Hall; Little Jensen who needs a heart; Sharon Sebolt and her Momma Shirley; the Pottenger Family; Serena's husband; some young ladies with anxiety; a man in rehab for anger issues; a young man out of rehab who needs strength in his daily walk; a husband/father separated from his wife; Cyndi; Kristen Batten; those with COVID either themselves or in their family; Ms. Savon; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many who are dealing with 'c' and/or going through treatments...Doug and Gay; Sharon's daughter Ashley and niece Amy; Chrissy's cousins; George and Sharon; Cait's friend with leukemia; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Elaine Stoltzfus; Tammie; Little Ivy; Betty's friend in New York' and my friend recently diagnosed with mesothelioma. I pray for Jonathan whose mother was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Oh Lord, be so close to this family. So, so many hurting situations. Thank You for being with Baby Henry as he went through surgery yesterday! I continue to pray for healing in his little body. Thank You for continuing to be what Anna, Michael, Matt, and I need on this road of grief! Thank You for being My Almighty! Amen. 

Psalm 14; II Timothy 1:7; Philippians 4:13; Psalm 46:10 - "Look What You've Done"

The Lord directed me to Psalm 14 this morning and has the song "Look What You've Done" going through my mind. David talks about people who refuse God in their life. He speaks of how God looks down upon such people with love (vs. 2). God never gives up on us no matter how hard we try to live a life without Him. I love the words to this song...

Look what You've done, look what You've done in me
You spoke Your truth into the lies I let my heart believe
Look at me now, look how You madе me new
The еnemy did everything that he could do
Oh, but look what You've done

The enemy tries to keep us away from God. He tries to pull those in relationship with God away from Him. He will do anything in his power to make us feel unloved, unworthy, etc. We must realize we do not have to live in the lies of the enemy. God is always there to love on us. He is always there to show us the way to Him. His way includes not only life on this earth but life with Him for eternity. Woo hoo! That is the best part of the relationship with God. I have been asked so many times how I know there is life after this earth. His Word tells me about eternal life. He shows me every day what I need to do to live with Him for eternity. I do not have to live in the lies of the enemy. I can live in peace and completeness in the Lord. Praise His Holy Name! He uses people to encourage me to continue to strive to walk in obedience to His will for my life. The enemy tries to put lies upon me that tell me I can't do what is before me but God reminds me I can do anything He desires of me. He reminds me II Timothy 1:7 tells me I do not have to fear anything but need to stand in the empowerment of the Holy Spirit. He reminds me of Philippians 4:13 that I have His strength to lean into. He reminds me all I have to do is follow His command in Psalm 46:10 and He will work in and through me. I am so grateful for all the ways He reminds me of Who He is in my life and who I am to Him. This morning my friend Andy sent this picture to me with the message: "Good morning my friend. The moon is mirroring how you shine early this morning." Wow, God! What a great way to start my day! This encourages me to continue to strive to shine brightly for the Lord.

Dear Jesus,

Thank You for all the ways You love on me and encourage me! Thank You for my friend Andy's message this morning! Thank You for being with the surgeons today as they repair Baby Henry's heart! I pray Your presence to be so very real to them and his family. I pray for a cleansing in myself so I can be more of who You desire me to be. Fill me to overflowing with more of You so people will see/hear You instead of me. May I shine brightly for You no matter what happens in the day ahead. Lord, I pray for those without power to stay warm and for those traveling to be safe on the roads. I pray for Anna, Michael, Matt, and myself as we continue on this journey of grief. May we all lean into You when the 'tough' days occur. I pray the same for many going through 'tough' days in life. My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Tony and Madeline; Cait; Mike; Norma Hall; Little Jensen who needs a heart; Sharon Sebolt and her Momma Shirley; the Pottenger Family; Serena's husband; some young ladies with anxiety; a man in rehab for anger issues; a young man out of rehab who needs strength in his daily walk; a husband/father separated from his wife; Cyndi; Kristen Batten; those with COVID either themselves or in their family; Ms. Savon; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many who are dealing with 'c' and/or going through treatments...Doug and Gay; Sharon's daughter Ashley and niece Amy; Chrissy's cousins; George and Sharon; Cait's friend with leukemia; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Elaine Stoltzfus; Tammie; Little Ivy; Betty's friend in New York' and my friend recently diagnosed with mesothelioma. I pray for Jonathan whose mother was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Oh Lord, be so close to this family. So, so many hurting situations. Thank You for being My Eternal Life! Amen. 

Psalm 122:1; I Thessalonians 5:16-18 - "House of the Lord"

Yesterday the rain was pouring down so ugly so I knew there would be some to stay home from church. I received a phone call that Paula who teaches adult Sunday school teacher and Jack who plays the music for service were under the weather and unable to be there. I already knew of some sick so I was pretty discouraged. I thought back to my devotions from yesterday morning with Psalm 122:1 and questioned how I was going to be joyful with all going on. God blessed me in abundance when Joshua stopped in asking about service. It lifted my spirits immensely! God had me pray during Sunday school for each and every person who was going to be in the service physically and for those who would be watching on-line. He kept bringing to my prayers for all of us 'to embrace' what He had for us. I received a text at 10:45 from Brooklyn that she overslept. I truly believe the enemy did not want me to be joyful yesterday but he did not win. My God won! Looking out over twenty-three people in service warmed my heart. Knowing God orchestrated every moment of my morning gave me great joy. I am thankful for the peace He gave me as I leaned into Him for wisdom. He is so, so good! He knows what we need and He provides. There were fourteen of us who went to lunch yesterday. As happens a lot these days it took awhile for the food to come but what a great time of fellowship we had during that time. I truly believe it was all in God's time! Woo hoo! The icing on the cake was walking out from lunch into pure sunshine. Not only was the sun shining but the Son was shining down upon me. Praise His Holy Name! Yesterday may not have started off joyful but God showed me He desires me to be joyful! I am reminded of Paul's words in I Thessalonians 5:16-18. Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Yes! I will rejoice! I will pray! I will be thankful! No matter what circumstances I find myself in I will continue to strive to walk in obedience to the will of God. Once again I am reminded of the words to a song Phil Wickham sings called "House of the Lord"...

There's joy
In the house of the Lord
There's joy in the house of the Lord today
And we won't be quiet
We shout out
Your praise
There's joy in the house of the Lord
Our God is surely in this place
And we won't be quiet
We shout out Your praise

Dear Jesus, Thank You for being so intentional to show me how to be joyful yesterday! Thank You for all of the ways You loved on me! Thank You for the Cole family, Dave and Carol, and Bob and Kensi joining us for service while they were in town! Thank You for giving me the desire to commune with You daily as this week's challenge suggests! Lord, cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of You. May You ooze out of my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts today even if I do not leave the house. Lord, I pray for Your wisdom with the kitchen floor issue at the church. I pray Your peace over every decision that is ahead. I also pray Your peace over many going through 'tough' days. May You continue to give Anna, Michael, Matt, and myself exactly what we need as we adjust to no longer having my Rickey with us. I pray the same for others who have lost loved ones. I pray for Ms Savon and her family with the loss of her aunt. I think of so many going through COVID and pray not only for their physical needs but also their mental, emotional, financial, and spiritual needs. Lord, continue to be close to: My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Tony and Madeline; Cait; Mike; Norma Hall; Little Jensen who needs a heart; Sharon Sebolt and her Momma Shirley; the Pottenger Family; Serena's husband; some young ladies with anxiety; a man in rehab for anger issues; a young man out of rehab who needs strength in his daily walk; a husband/father separated from his wife; Cyndi; Kristen Batten; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many who are dealing with 'c' and/or going through treatments...Doug and Gay; Sharon's daughter Ashley and niece Amy; Chrissy's cousins; George and Sharon; Cait's friend with leukemia; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Elaine Stoltzfus; Tammie; Little Ivy; Betty's friend in New York' and my friend recently diagnosed with mesothelioma. I pray for Jonathan whose mother was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Oh Lord, be so close to this family. So, so many hurting situations. Thank You for being My Joy! Amen.

Psalm 122:1 - "House of the Lord"

I woke up this morning with the words to a song Phil Wickham sings called "House of the Lord" and was so blessed. I prayed before going to bed, during the night, and again this morning for pastors. Some cancelled church services due to bad weather. Others cancelled due to COVID being so rampant in their church. I prayed for those gong through 'tough' days with physical issues along with family issues. This morning this song reminds me of how we all need to be as we go to church. Joyful. No matter what is happening in life we need to allow God to restore our joy. This is not easy in our humanness but it will come naturally when we allow God to be in control of our lives. 

There's joy
In the house of the Lord
There's joy in the house of the Lord today
And we won't be quiet
We shout out
Your praise
There's joy in the house of the Lord
Our God is surely in this place
And we won't be quiet
We shout out Your praise

Wickham wrote of this song: Over the past 12 months I've learned in a deeper way than ever that though happiness comes and goes in Jesus I can always have joy. Cause though happiness is based on circumstances, joy is rooted in identity. It's based on who God says we are! Though we were once beggars, in Jesus we are royalty. Praise His Holy Name! Our circumstances do not have to define us. We do not have to allow them to take our joy. Instead we need to press into the Lord and allow Him to be our Joy. There will be many pastors and many lay people walk in church doors today who are going through 'tough' days. There will be many who are ready to give up on life. I pray they will receive His joy in a mighty way through the service they are in today. Some will watch services on-line. I pray they will receive His joy. Nothing is greater than God's love. No matter what the enemy tries to tell us God has a plan for our lives. In my little world the rain is falling heavily. The weather will keep people away from church services which is a shame. God desires us to be in communion with others. He desires us to have fellowship with one another to encourage our hearts. COVID has taken away so much from church bodies. I truly believe the enemy is working double time with it. That means we, as believers, need to work even harder to be who God desires us to be. David wrote Psalm 122 with a grateful heart to be in Jerusalem. He praised God for having him where He desired him to be. We need to do the same. We also need to intercede as verse eight reads. I intercede for the sake of my family and friends who dwell there, that they may all live in peace. Peace is something many are not experiencing in life. It is possible when we allow God to be Who He desires to be in our lives. Peace in the midst of the storms of life is possible when He is in charge. Peace is a wonderful place to live.

Dear Jesus,

Thank You for the opportunities You gave me yesterday to love with Your love! Thank You for the ones You will give me in the day ahead! Thank You for Kayla, Darrel, and John inviting me over last night! What a fun evening! Thank You for the rest You provided yesterday and the way You continue to give me exactly what I need on this road of grief! I pray You will continue to be with Anna, Michael, and Matt as we do life without my Rickey with us. May You be greater than the hurts of life. I pray the same for so many going through 'tough' days. My heart breaks for Amy with Baby Scottie being sick and for the Weber family with Little Henry awaiting surgery. May both of these families have Your peace. Thank You for Dan and Zane visiting my Momma yesterday! May Your peace come down over all going through 'tough' days. My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Tony and Madeline; Cait; Mike; Norma Hall; Little Jensen who needs a heart; Sharon Sebolt and her Momma Shirley; the Pottenger Family; Serena's husband; some young ladies with anxiety; a man in rehab for anger issues; a young man out of rehab who needs strength in his daily walk; a husband/father separated from his wife; Cyndi; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many who are dealing with 'c' and/or going through treatments...Doug and Gay; Sharon's daughter Ashley and niece Amy; Chrissy's cousins; George and Sharon; Cait's friend with leukemia; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Elaine Stoltzfus; Tammie; Little Ivy; and my friend recently diagnosed with mesothelioma. My heart breaks with so many dealing with COVID themselves and/or family members. I pray for Jonathan whose mother was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Oh Lord, be so close to this family. So, so many hurting situations. Lord, cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of You. May You ooze out of my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts today in a mighty way. Thank You for being My Joy! Amen.