Tag Archive | christianity

A Matter of Principle

I had to make a tough decision this past week. Probably one of the hardest I have ever had to make. I made the decision to leave my church family and friends, that I love with all my heart. I never wanted to leave, thought I was rooted for life, and had even taught others that I was in it for the long haul and they should be too. I thought I was, but . . .

It became a matter of principle.

Right after announcing my decision to leave, I got in my car and on a radio program a man was preaching that it is time we speak up–The Emperor Has No Clothes!

He’s right! I’m sure you know the story of the ruler that convinced everyone to go along with him, even agreeing against what they could see with their own eyes. Everyone followed for fear of speaking up. Fearful of standing out and being the only voice, they denied the truth–even to themselves. One young boy didn’t have any motive, anyone to impress, and in innocence, spoke the TRUTH.

When I made the decision to leave, rather than sorrow, sadness and depression, I felt elation. An immediate sense of freedom from being bound, like a bondage had been broken off of me. What followed was joy bubbling up and out of my spirit, and I have been full of great joy ever since. Before this takeover happened to my church, I had this same great joy, but what came in was a bulldozer; resulting in depression, anger, and a death-like feeling inside– a terrible sorrow one shouldn’t feel when present in the church-body they love.

I wasn’t going to say anything. I had approached leadership before this happened, because I had great trepidation. I told them I could not find peace. Expressing my concerns came to no avail, but were certainly not unfounded.

My joy comes from standing for principle–standing for Truth!

My concerns started when the takeover stated that he had asked Jesus what He liked best about him and Jesus replied, “I love your sarcasm.”

Please allow me to refresh you on the meaning of the term. These are four definitions I found defining “Sarcasm.”

“Sarcasm: The use of remarks that clearly mean the opposite of what they say, made in order to hurt someone’s feelings or to criticize something in a humorous way.”

“Sarcasm: noun

A cutting, often ironic remark intended to express contempt or ridicule.

A form of wit characterized by the use of such remarks. “detected a hint of sarcasm in his voice.”

A keen, reproachful expression; a satirical remark uttered with some degree of scorn or contempt; a taunt; a gibe; a cutting jest.”

Sarcasm: is the caustic use of words, often in a humorous way, to mock someone or something. Sarcasm may employ ambivalence, although it is not necessarily ironic. Most noticeable in spoken word, sarcasm is mainly distinguished by the inflection with which it is spoken or, with an undercurrent of irony, by the extreme disproportion of the comment to the situation, and is largely context-dependent.”

“Sarcasm noun

1. : a sharp and often satirical or ironic utterance designed to cut or give pain.

2. a : a mode of satirical wit depending for its effect on bitter caustic, and often ironic language that is usually directed against an individual.

b : the use or language of sarcasm.”

Basically, sarcasm, is poison that pollutes all those that must succumb to it. When it doesn’t go over well they say, “I was just kidding.” Sarcasm is the opposite of Truth, often a nasty remark hidden behind the guise of humor, usually sick-humor.

“Like a madman who throws firebrands, arrows, and death, is the man who deceives his neighbor and says, “I am only joking!” Proverbs 26:18-19

When the takeover learned of my attempt to expose the truth of sarcasm, it was defensively doubled down–even to the audacity of saying that Jesus spoke sarcastically to His disciples.

Blasphemy!

Can anyone read those definitions and truthfully say that Jesus would embrace such behavior? Even if the person makes the remarks against themselves, what fruit is there in negative behavior disguised as humor? That ended it for me and I was going to go away quietly, but every time I open my bible since, it is underscored that one needs to speak up!

Nebuchadnezzar had Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego bound and thrown into the fiery furnace because they refused to bow to the god that he had created. They weren’t afraid of standing up to the king, for they knew their King is Jesus–He is Truth!

“He who walks in integrity will be delivered, but he who is perverse in his ways will fall into a pit.” Proverbs 28:18

Truth is the opposite of Sarcasm, isn’t it?

I stand for Truth! Even at the cost of losing my church home–a family that I love with all my heart. I have joy because Jesus is with me in the midst of the fire. He took the bounds off of me when I stood and defended His character.

I have joy because I don’t follow man, I follow Jesus, and where He is–there is JOY!

How about you?

Does your church lead you closer to Jesus, leave you refreshed and full of JOY? If not, maybe you should stand up and speak the TRUTH!

“Nebuchadnezzar said, ‘Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who has sent his angel and delivered his servants, who trusted in him, and set at nought the king’s command, and yielded up their bodies rather than serve and worship any god except their own God.” Daniel 3:28

In Him We Thrive

May13

Friends of mine have been going through traumatic times lately. He is my former employer, which was many years ago; but over the years, he and his wife and I have remained good friends.

A couple months ago he had a stroke. . .

With the Lord and the hospital watching over him, he has come out of it in amazingly great shape. Thank you, Jesus, and many thanks to the wonderful team of doctors and nurses who took care of him. His wife, however, did not fare so well. Struggling while he was in the hospital, faced with the reality of what life might be without him, she developed a fear for her future and began shutting down. I was working heavily at the time and was unaware of the storm that was brewing until I heard from her husband one day that they were taking her to the hospital. “I’ve never seen anyone so thin.” he stated. I asked him to get back to me, but he didn’t and when my texts went unanswered, I was reluctant to intrude. Still busy with work and life, it was 2 weeks before I realized how much time had lapsed and I still didn’t know how she was. Just as I was wondering this, he texted. She is still recovering, has lost a lot of muscle and is in Hospice care in Chicago. He had sent a wrapped heart emoji with the recovering part which made me think she had suffered a heart attack, but my texts for more clarification again went unanswered.

Sunday, Mother’s Day. . .

I was going to have my church pray for her. We are a fervent-praying, God-seeking church–but during worship I began to pray. The Holy Spirit anointing dropped and enveloped me with such a Presence that I knew God was on it and no longer felt the need for more prayer. It seemed so settled, that afterward I even forgot to ask.

That afternoon her son called me. He filled in all the missing details. She didn’t have a heart attack, but they determined failure to thrive. Her oxygen level was so low she was near death. She was dehydrated, not eating and the doctors said she would likely die within 24-48 hours. I told him about the anointing and prayer, declaring that I don’t believe it’s her time to go. He was quiet. Realizing that this too could be an intrusion, to someone that had likely prepared in the midst of this whirlwind for her death, I softened my exuberance; explaining that I’m probably just not wanting to let her go. He encouraged me to call his dad, stating that he knew his dad would welcome my call, but later it received no answer.

The next morning I called again. . .

This time he answered, and when I asked how she was, he said, “Oh, Would you like to talk to her?”

Within 24 hours, the time she was supposed to die–God moved!

Not only did she not die–she is staying in a hospital bed at her daughter’s and at the time of my call she was out of bed and sitting in a wheelchair. She had eaten breakfast and the oxygen was off. Her voice was strong, cheerful and one would never know she had just hovered at the brink of death.

She said, “I had a cup of tea this morning with honey!”

WOW!

At the end of our conversation, I instructed her, “Tie your shoes, I believe you’re coming home soon.”

Her reply?

“I want to come home.”

Someday she will go to her forever home, but this isn’t the time. . .

Praise Jesus, He is causing her to THRIVE!

“And his name, by faith in his name, has made this man strong whom you see and know; and the faith which is through Jesus has given the man this perfect health in the presence of you all.” Acts 3:16

Though the world can be a scary place, we must not yield to fear. Fear is a spirit that will begin to take your life from you if you yield to it.

This is the time to anchor to the Rock!

He will keep you safe–Yield to Jesus!

♥ UPDATE: My friends are making preparations to come home! She is walking with a walker and has gained a little weight. This is essential, as her husband told me she had weighed in at 65 pounds when they made the decision to transfer to Chicago and Hospice. I can’t even imagine a 65# adult. It is an incredible miracle that she not only lived, but is in the process of complete restoration. Please keep them in your prayers. You may just say Lori’s friends and the Lord will know. He knows without you even saying that–He knows! –Thank you!

♥ Her husband also mentioned that he will be driving soon. Another miracle, as it was just 2 months ago when he had the stroke.

Praise God for His unwavering faithfulness! He honors our prayers–He honors His Word!

Hallelujah!

♥ALL GLORY BELONGS TO GOD!

Thank you, Jesus!

Later, this same day, I was walking my dog on the public paved trail. We were almost back to the car when a shadow spanned over me blocking the sun. I saw the huge black wings imprinted on the cement and knew that bird was after my dog. He was very close. I looked up at him and pointed my finger and said, “You will not take my dog.” The eagle raised up, circled and came in closer, very close! Looking up, I pointed again and said, “I have authority over you and you will not touch my dog! His shadow covered over me. I pulled my dog in close and said, “I don’t abide under your shadow. I abide under the shadow of my Father’s wings–be gone in Jesus Name!” He immediately flew off and when I reached the car, just moments later, looking up at the sky he was nowhere to be seen.

Praise God for the authority He has given us, in His Name!

“He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High, who abides in the shadow of the Almighty, will say to the Lord, ‘My refuge and my fortress; my God, in whom I trust'” 91:1-2

“Protect me from harm; keep an eye on me like you would a child reflected in the twinkling of your eye. Yes, hide me within the shelter of your embrace, under your outstretched wings.” Psalm 17:8 TPT

“Behold, I have given you authority to tread upon serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy; and nothing shall hurt you.” Luke 10:19

“Then God said, ‘Let us make man in our image, after our likeness; and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps upon the earth.'” Genesis 1:26

Faith’s Gift

Sep7

The first time we met, he was in an alley, and very drunk. He yelled at me to go home. “Go home” he said, “We don’t want you here!” and I replied, “I’m sorry you feel that way, but I’m staying.”

Rather than deter me, he worked his way into my heart.

I know one shouldn’t have favorites, but my list of favorites seems to keep growing every week and he is way up there at the top. Maybe because he had tried so hard to reject me–maybe because I could see beyond the wall of pain.

He’s one of our veterans . . .

living and trying to cope on the streets, along with many many others; vets and non-vets, men, women and children, stuck in that same relentless trap.

I had been reading an article about a group that was feeding the homeless in a park. They had started during Covid and were now going to continue, by moving to a local shelter for the winter. When they found out that if one doesn’t stay at the shelter, they can’t eat there, they continued serving at both–faithfully, all year long. The Lord weighed in, as I read the article, and spoke to me, “The people they serve are much like the prisoners you write for.” When I agreed, He continued. “Then why don’t you go help them.” It was more of a statement than a question and I didn’t hesitate.

“Ok!”

I sent them an email and they graciously opened their hearts to me, inviting me to ‘give it a try’ that week. I never looked back. It has been my favorite night of the week ever since, and a tremendous gift to serve such appreciative, wonderful guests!

So this ‘belligerent’ guy became my friend that I saw only once a week. When he isn’t drinking he is a sweet, gentle soul. It’s the vodka that made him mean, but it really wasn’t that was it? The vodka was his means of coping with a life out of control. A life that had become too hard to face without it. It was vodka that he reached for when his heart just couldn’t bear it anymore. I hear so many criticize the homeless, and give their mighty opinions of how they should be ‘handled’ or even not helped.

I wonder how those criticizers would fare if they tried even just one day in their bitter situation.

So, we got to talking a couple winters later, and I told him he was the first person I met when I had started. I related to him what he had said to me and I was smiling, not condemning. “I said that?!” he replied. “Oh, that d… vodka! I should never drink that stuff!” It wasn’t long after, that he seemed to be getting more fragile. He was very thin and having trouble walking–far too many years of hardship, out in the elements. I told him I was praying for him. He seemed a little embarrassed and befuddled at that. That season ended and I moved to serving in the park. He didn’t come the next winter which was a bitter, bitter cold one. I prayed that he be healed, warm, and safe. The next year, when he didn’t return, I asked everyone that knew him, if they had seen him; but only one responded vaguely positive; they thought they had heard he was still around. I missed him and tried not to worry, but continued to trust God–Who knows everything!

The Gift!

I think it’s been about a year and half now and this week I was given an incredible gift!

Running an errand on my way to work that day, took me down an alley I don’t usually travel. He was there! When he saw me, his face lit up! Maybe he was reflecting my own shining face, for I was so happy to see him–but no, his face revealed the countenance of a changed man.

We talked for a bit and he told me that he no longer drinks and he has been able to sleep. His face was now fleshed out, he looked rested and years younger. It was evident that his heart is no longer tormented. He went on to say he has been working, and is making plans to move back home in a few weeks, to where he grew up. If that wasn’t enough, he’d saved the biggest gift for last . . . the docs had worked him over and ran scans and tests, reporting that his liver is in excellent shape! He laughed and said he told them maybe they’d better run that again. We both know that after all that hard drinking, there is only one possible way for him to have an excellent liver–NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE WITH GOD!

Our huge smiles matched this time as he said, “I’d better get outta here.” His face shown as he spoke his parting words to me–

“Keep the Faith!”

There’s no other way to go!

My friend knows Jesus–everything’s gonna be alright!

All Glory Be to God!

“He will care for the needy and neglected when they cry to him for help. The humble and helpless will know his kindness, for with a father’s compassion he will save their souls. They will be rescued from tyranny and torture, for their lifeblood is precious in his eyes.” Psalm 72:12-14 TPT

“He responds to the prayer of the poor and broken and will not despise the cry of the homeless.” Psalm 102:17 TPT

“Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being changed into his likeness from one degree of glory to another, for this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.” 2 Corinthians 3:17-18 RSV

Exciting Book News!

Aug9

https://nationofwomenpublishing.com/product/his-voice-in-my-heart-to-freedom/

A Colorado Women’s Correctional Institution has contacted my publisher requesting donation of the “His Voice in My Heart” book series. They currently have 550 inmates, and stated that about 150 of them consistently attend church services and read faith-based books.

The publisher wrote to the warden to confirm, inquire of how many they wanted and asked how they learned of the books, as they had requested them by title.

She received confirmation from the warden today and contact from the coordinator as well. He stated that he heard about them from the inmates and that they were recommended by several chaplains and volunteers as well. They are asking for 50 of each of the “His Voice in My Heart” books. Which we will send, along with 50 of “Comfort in the Challenge,” which they agreed they would like as well. Hopefully, the excitement of the inmates and the extra 50 books will spill out to the other inmates that don’t attend services and draw them into God’s love.

This is so exciting to me!

This is only one small prison of thousands across the country that we send to via, Prison Book Project, of Titusville Florida; a prison book-placing ministry that we utilize and are so thankful for!

The fact that they want 200 books is evidence that hearts are hungry and the books are touching them!

Praise Jesus!

Would you consider being a part of this exciting opportunity to bring comfort, healing and JESUS to hearts of those hidden from society, but not hidden from God?

He came to set the captives free!

Give the Gift of Compassion

All, “His Voice in My Heart” books, along with “Comfort in the Challenge” are being sent, free of charge, to prisons, jails and rehab centers all over the country; and are offered freely to the homeless. If you would like to be involved, your donations are very much appreciated and are tax deductible.

A special thank you to my publisher, Cindy Neathery, for offering this valuable opportunity!

You may donate by visiting:

https://www.nationofwomen.com

Click on ‘Contributions’ and scroll down to the thumbnail pic of the image above, type ‘for prison books’ in the comment section. Checks may also be made out to Nation of “Women Ministries” and sent to: 619 Roberts Cut Off Rd., River Oaks, TX 76114.

Please write ‘For Prison Books’ on the check. Paying by check saves 3% of the order going to credit card fees.

Thank you so much!

Your generous donation will be used for printing and sending vital books to a lost, broken, and hurting world–additionally, this author has not taken anything from the sale of any of the books, but re-invests everything received–continuing to place these life-giving books into their hands.

Below are direct quotes of a letter received from an inmate that has read the first of the series, “His Voice in My Heart.”

“But for the next time I picked up the book and started reading it I couldn’t put it down. I really got into the book and don’t understand why I did but the book spoke to me in a lot of ways and in ways that I can change myself. It is a really good book and you put some good stories in it.”

“I don’t know what made me pick it up again and not only that but couldn’t put it down and it’s almost like what you said about praying for the lady at work and you said it wasn’t the right time to pray for her but at the right time you did. Well I feel the same way about the book. It was God that done everything. But I want to thank you again for the book that I was reading. I hope to read more of them.”

Thank you, Prison Book Project for making this happen!

Other than what is sent free of charge, proceeds from purchases of “Comfort in the Challenge” will go directly to Canaanland Ministries of Autaugaville, Alabama. A wonderful ministry, proven for over 40 years in successfully restoring men, struggling with addiction, to a new life in Christ– giving families their husbands, sons back.

Please consider a direct donation to them by visiting:

http://www.canaanland.com

Your generous, tax deductible donation will be helping them to fulfill a vision the Lord has placed on their heart–

A Canaanland Ministry in every state!

“Comfort in the Challenge” was written and published in November of 2019. It was written and dedicated to caregivers, before we knew of Covid 19.

My publisher had rejected the original title, stating that the Lord had spoken this to her, “Comfort in the Challenge.”

He had prophetically provided, in advance, for what He knew we were about to face.

Glory to God!

A special thank you and shout out to Prison Book Project of Titusville, Florida.

Their nearly 30 year ministry is devoted to placing good books in the hands of inmates in prisons, jails and rehab facilities; all over the country, as well as our military overseas! It is through their distribution of books that this has all been made possible.

Did you know that an individual can no longer send books into prisons? Books were being sent in laced with drugs, resulting in many deaths. Now, inmates can only receive books direct from a publisher, book-placing ministry, such as Prison Book Project or direct purchase through companies, such as Amazon, and Barnes & Noble. Unfortunately, this is now the world we live in; therefore, I am all the more so very thankful for Prison Book Project’s wonderful ministry!

Please consider a generous donation to their ministry to help with the costs of shipping these books by visiting:

https://www.prisonbookproject.org

Finally, an extra special thank you to all of you that have given to help make this dream come true. Many have caught the vision and have helped. To all of you, no matter how big or how small your donation, you are a vital part in fulfilling this calling. Thank you!

I cannot express enough how very thankful and grateful I am for your kindness!

Thank you so very much!

Love and blessings to you, Lori J. O’Neil

The Gift of Waiting

Apr6

Before Jesus was crucified, He informed His disciples that they would see Him again–He would rise from the dead. That must have been hard for them to believe, and yet, He was with them! They witnessed miracle after miracle. They KNEW Him!

They had no choice–they waited.

Jesus’ resurrection from the dead procured abundant life for all that would believe; it is so much more than Salvation! I cannot sum up in a sentence or paragraph all that was bought for us through the horrific sacrifice on the cross, death and resurrection of our Lord and Savior, King Jesus. In fact, the majority of believers live a lifetime and still do not fully realize the unsurpassed fullness of Jesus Christ in their lives. Maybe that is because we first need to fully grasp the ability to wait!

Abraham waited nearly a lifetime for Issac; Moses waited in the desert 40 years; Noah waited for the flood as he built the ark and then waited in the Ark for the flood to subside, enabling him to return to the earth; Joseph waited in prison; Jesus waited 40 days and nights in the desert and waited 3 days in Hell; and the list goes on and on!

I doubt that there are many of us that like to wait.

Are you waiting for Eternity? You need to realize that Eternity has already begun. Jesus did all that He needed to do, to provide the abundant life intended for you. Now, it’s up to you to procure it!

Waiting is active.

It’s not sitting around waiting for Heaven . . . Yes, if you have received Jesus as your Lord and Savior, Heaven, will be your home; but Jesus offers you Heaven on earth. If you’re not learning about, pursuing, and receiving all the promises found in the Bible, then you are missing out . . . You’re wasting your wait, and you’re wasting your life!

For those that don’t believe in Jesus, don’t repent of their sins, receive His forgiveness and the promise of Eternal life–so sorry for you! Your Eternal Hell has already begun, for you are missing out on a life filled with Promises and the Gift of Love and Forgiveness. You don’t know what it’s like to have fellowship with Jesus and know of His Grace and Mercy. You’ve never felt His Love surround you; basked in His Presence; walked in Divine Favor and the BLESSING! You don’t have security and safety, and the assurance that you will never truly fail, for He’s got your back. You don’t know His perfect Peace!

Well, the Good News is, if you’re reading this, it’s not too late!

Before you reach for another Jelly Bean–WAIT!

Think about your soul. Think about this Eternity that you are living and ask yourself if it is enough. For Christian and non-Christian alike–there is more!

He made a way for EVERYONE, while He waited; but He wasn’t just waiting–He conquered; and in three days He resurrected from the dead–that Hell and the grave have no power over you–ever again!

So, it seems waiting is quite important, don’t you think?

May Jesus BLESS your Resurrection Sunday. May you actively wait on Him–

May you fully offer your life to Him–He’s waiting for you ♥

“For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God sent the Son into the world not to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him. He who believes in him is not condemned; he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God.” John 3:16-18

“To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood and made us a kingdom, priests to his God and Father, to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.” Revelation 1:5b

A Remnant of Devotion

Feb8

I had a dream, in that I could see a sea of people as far as the eye could see and beyond.

They were each carrying a box of some sort. One man’s looked like an old-fashioned, metal, fishing tackle box. He was very excited and appeared ready to begin. He opened his box and in it was a large white brick. I realized that they were all ready to begin. The realization hit me of the enormity of millions and millions of people all casting aside their boxes at once to begin to build together.

It was astonishing!

The alarm woke me up just then; and as I pondered the dream, the Lord began to speak the following message you will read below. This huge nation appeared to be of one people, it represents a “Nation,” the Remnant, devoted to God.

Imagine if we ‘all’ set aside our distractions and built our devotion wholly to Him, building the Kingdom–you imagined a life of the FREE!

I have prepared a remnant that you might never see, but they are a ‘sea’ of people dedicated to My Kingdom.

They are a hidden people. Hidden, to start, but as they build, it will become clear who they are; for they are devoted. Do not think that you are alone–that you alone know the Truth. This nation may be the most prosperous, but I have nations and nations of those devoted.

You see, they are not distracted by riches. They carry freedom with them–wherever they go. It is the gospel, their most prized possession–they carry it in their hearts.

They value, far more than rubies and gold, Words to live by–Words of Life!

Devotion.

Do not become so prosperous that it gains your authority; for the nations that remain devoted–they will build My Kingdom–Brick by Brick!

You may not see them–they may be hidden from your view.

I have a nation devoted . . .

Are you?

“It shall come to pass in the latter days that the mountain of the house of the Lord shall be established as the highest of the mountains, and shall be raised up above the hills; and peoples shall flow to it, and many nations shall come, and say; “Come, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob; that he may teach us his ways and we may walk in his paths.” For out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem. He shall judge between many peoples, and shall decide for strong nations afar off; and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more; but they shall sit every man under his vine and under his fig tree, and none shall make them afraid; for the mouth of the Lord of hosts has spoken. For all the peoples walk each in the name of its god, but we will walk in the name of the Lord our God for ever and ever. In that day, says the Lord, I will assemble the lame and gather those who have been driven away, and those whom I have afflicted; and the lame I will make the remnant; and those who were cast off, a strong nation; and the Lord will reign over them in Mount Zion from this time forth and for evermore.” Micah 4:1-7

“After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude which no man could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands, and crying out with a loud voice, “Salvation belongs to our God who sits upon the throne, and to the Lamb!” And all the angels stood round the throne and round the elders and the four living creatures, and they fell on their faces before the throne and worshiped God, saying, Amen! Blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving and honor and power and might be to our God for ever and ever! Amen.” Revelation 7:9-12

Limits Stretched to HIS Power!

Nov29

Last week, a friend left a message on my phone, when I was serving the homeless. I didn’t hear it come in, and had I not stopped in a parking lot to send a text, I wouldn’t have realized that I didn’t even have my phone; it was left behind at the shelter. I would have went all the way home and not known she had called. My phone was so close to a dead battery when I picked it up, that I couldn’t even call her back. My internal battery had run out as well–

I was exhausted!

The last thing I wanted to do, was add anything to my night; but her message was so long, and there was so much pain wrenching her voice, I just couldn’t turn my back.

I am so glad that I didn’t!

She suffers from severe cellulitis in both legs, but one leg was so bad it had turned black. Her toes looked like she might lose them in front of me, and there were large open sores absolutely covering her lower leg. She was in so much pain it was heart-breaking, but seeing her like that, actually helped me to stomach what I normally would not have been able to. My kids can tell you that I had trouble putting on band-aids when they were growing up. You know, it’s not easy trying to bandage a wound while looking the other way–especially when pretending to be an adult!

Somehow the Lord gives us grace for things we can’t cope with! His mercy trumps self. It’s a mystery how He manages to stretch us beyond our limits. Maybe because He can’t see limits–they don’t even exist with Him!

Stretching is good exercise, right?

So, I sat on her walker seat, parked right in front of her, because I was already in the, ‘beyond standing’ sorta tired!

–but God!

He took over!

When I started to pray, my whole being became filled with tangible energy and strength. It was amazing! I wasn’t there for me, but He generously filled me too!

After the prayer, she coached me through bandaging her leg and then I said, goodnight.

The next day she called me. She had gone to the wound clinic for a scheduled dressing change and wound check. They unwound that bandage and exclaimed over her leg–it was healed!*

I had bandaged open wounds at 10:30 the night before; but sometime between 10:30 pm and the next morning God did what only He can do–what He does best–a Miracle!

Glory to God!!!

I had nothing in me, it was ALL HIM! –but then, It always is!

Thank you, Jesus ♥

All Glory be to God, AMEN!

*In reading this over, I realized that it may give the impression that the entire case of cellulitis was gone. Please understand that the wounds were healed overnight, which is miraculous; but we patiently wait for the skin to be completely renewed. I am sorry if this misled anyone; that was not my intention. My friend reports that she has absolutely no pain! – Praise God!

*Further updated: My friend now feels tickling on the bottoms of her feet; formerly she had lost the ability to feel sensation there. – Thank you, Jesus!

His Healing Power

Oct20

On July 25th, 2022, I posted the story of Peppi’s miraculous healing of cancer. This stage 4 cancer was his third round and it was in his brain, face, neck, shoulders and was going into his bones, but not anymore! To date, 4 CT scans and a PET scan are proof that God has given him a new life.

There is no longer cancer anywhere in his body!

Glory to God!!!

You may read about it in the post “Nothing is too Complicated for God.” At that time I had said that there were two others that I would write about at a later time. I had intended to, much sooner, but I have been totally focused on getting my next book finished. I am very happy to announce that the book is now written and edits are complete. It is now ready for the cover designer and then a sample will be ordered for approval. Almost there! I expect it to be out in early to mid December.

Patty has given me permission to share the goodness of God and of His unsurpassed Healing Power, in her life, with you.

I was shocked the day I heard that Patty had breast cancer again, for she was a survivor from many years ago. Eighteen years, she tells me. Who would have thought, after all that time, that she would be facing that vile disease once again. I am so proud of Patty, because she was prepared and she faced this giant with her hand firmly tucked in Jesus.’ Though she chose to do chemo, her faith was in God to see her through.

There was a time when that would have bothered me, as if giving a mixed message. Wavering, so to speak, but Keith Moore, of Moore Life Ministries said something one time that set me free. He said, “You don’t deny it’s there, you deny its right to stay.” “You use every tool you’ve been given.” That so helped me to see sickness and disease in perspective. Jesus took sickness and disease upon Himself that you not have to have it. Therefore you are healed. When you put your trust in Jesus, and receive what He did for you on the Cross, you are no longer a victim. You are victorious in Christ Jesus!

You are the healed–sickness and disease the trespasser!

You have God-given rights to demand it to leave!

“He personally carried our sins in His body on the cross [willingly offering Himself on it, as on an altar of sacrifice], so that we might die to sin [becoming immune from the penalty and power of sin] and live for righteousness; for by His wounds you [who believe] have been healed.” 1Peter 2:24 AMPB

So, each one of us must look into our tool belts to see how and with what we must fight, when faced with the tough decisions in life. That is not the time to find you have an empty tool belt; for you can be taken under while you are out gathering what you need. If you are a Christian, you have been given everything you need to live victorious in this life. It is all written there for you in the Word, the Holy Bible. It is filled with promises and tools that are yours to keep, know and to wield, when the enemy would try his best to take you down; but it is up to you to dig them out, sharpen what you have and be prepared. Don’t wait until you need them. Find them, sharpen them every day, make use of them and be ready!

So, Patty asked for her Church to lay hands on her and pray. When her doctor spoke the c word to her–she took it immediately to God. During this prayer, she felt the Fire-of-God Anointing shoot through her breast and it is with this physical manifestation and the assurance of the Word, that she knew it was going to be alright.

This was her belief and confession and she stuck to it!

Halfway through treatments her platelets dropped dangerously low. A drug they were giving her, seemed to be attacking her adrenal and pituitary glands and she became very dizzy and was passing out. In this weakened state, she was hospitalized and was found to have Covid. They kept her there until the Covid was over its course. Sending her home, a steroid she had been on was greatly reduced, and after just a couple of days she became too weak to lift her head. An ambulance was called and thankfully they were there, for her heart stopped and they brought her back to life. She died again in the hospital, and was brought back to life and now suffered with three broken ribs from coding.

When Patty was finally able to be home and become strong enough to return to her doctor, he ran a PET (positron emission tomography) scan to determine how far the cancer had spread. It had been a month with no chemo at all and the last they had looked it was still in her breast; and had spread to the lymph nodes in her arm pit.

This scan however was different, for it showed that there was no longer any cancer anywhere!

Glory to God!!!

Patty is doing well and getting stronger every day. She still has some issues, caused from the drugs that she was given, but no cancer. There are side effects to medicine, but each must make their own decisions of the path they will take when faced with sickness and disease.

Be a support, not a condemning voice.

The other person is someone also very near and dear to me, but I forgot to ask specifically if I may say who she is, so I will leave it anonymous.

This person had cancer in the lower intestine/upper colon area and chose to have surgery. Her situation is a mystery because, post surgery, her surgeon visited her in her hospital room and gave her ‘the talk.’ He told her they got 50% of the cancer and that it was in the lymph nodes. They talked about the fact that she didn’t want to go the chemo route and he concluded that the cancer would then just take its course. Many people had been in prayer for her, as were for Patty. The next time she saw the surgeon, she asked him what she was to expect, as far as pain, and if it would likely go into her bones etc. His reply was puzzling, but great news . . .

“You don’t have any cancer, go and live your life!”

*Update: The person from the colon cancer healing recently had another, doctor ordered, follow-up scan. Again he told her that it looked like there was another tumor. She states that she stood her ground, told the devil that he would not be putting this back on her, maintaining her stance in peace. Her faith and trust remained fixed on the Lord! Her doctor got back to her later to tell her that he was wrong–there is no cancer anywhere!

Glory to God!!!

We’re still not exactly sure what happened, but conclude all good things come from Him! Three different people took three entirely different paths, but all three put their trust in Him and all three are cancer free!

Again I shout–

Glory to God!

“Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble, And He saved them from their distresses. He sent His word and healed them, And rescued them from their destruction. Let them give thanks to the Lord for His lovingkindness, And for His wonderful acts to the children of men! And let them offer the sacrifices of thanksgiving, And speak of His deeds with shouts of joy!” Psalm 107:19-22 AMPB

You may read about Peppi’s full transformation testimony in my new book about to go to print. Peppi is a former prisoner, and it is an amazing testimony of God’s loving redemption. God stopped my writing, for He had Peppi on His heart, and He wanted him to be in this book! I had never met and had not even seen Peppi before, but God spoke to me to take my books to a coffee shop. He said He had someone He wanted me to give them to. Peppi’s, is the final testimony in the “His Voice in My Heart” series; a message appropriately titled, “Peppi’s New Life.”

All Glory Be to God, Amen!

Nothing is too Complicated for God

Jul25

In my last post, “Nothing is too Insignificant for God,” I wrote about the seemingly insignificant things that are important to God, because they matter to us. The testimony in that post declares His unending love for us. Even that which would seem foolish to others matters to Him, if it matters to you.

You can trust Him with your heart!

Likewise there is no concern that you may have, that is too big for God to answer. From the tiniest need to the biggest fear and concern–He is there!

The following testimonies are, joyous, living proof of the goodness of God! They each received terrible news from their doctor. Each took a slightly different path, but each put their faith and trust in their Heavenly Father and the Healing power of Jesus Christ. I will write of just one testimony today, the other two will follow another day.

You can trust Him with your Body!

Please allow me to introduce you to Peppi. It is with his permission that I write his testimony and use his real name.

I was writing the third book in the “His Voice in My Heart” series last June, when the Lord stopped my writing. I blogged about it then, but at that time had not yet known the full purpose in His stopping me. At the time, I had been working toward a goal of publishing by Christmas of that year, 2021; when He spoke to me and said, “So, why don’t you think more toward spring.” “Ok, sure.” was my reply. I had thought He was just wanting me to slow my pace, and not work so hard. I was really enjoying the writing though, so I slowed down but kept dabbling at it. He then pulled the anointing. It was like trying to write in the dark without Him. No, not happening! What I didn’t know at that time was that He had someone that He was soon going to introduce me to and it would forever change this person’s life. His testimony has become a crowning Glory to the Lord, completing the book series, “His Voice in My Heart.” It declares the Lord’s Love, Compassion and Healing Power to all who will receive!

Glory to God!

I won’t go into the whole testimony here, you may read it when the book comes out. I won’t venture to say for sure, but again my hope is in time for Christmas; but I’ll just leave that up to the Lord!

Knowing that there will be many that don’t venture to read a book, I will tell you much of what happened. Spoiler alert for those of you that will read the book, but then it bears repeating . . . again and again and again!

One can never stop rejoicing in the goodness of our wonderful Savior!

So one day I was going to meet a friend for coffee and the Lord spoke to me and said, “Take your books with you; there is someone I want you to give them to.”

I obeyed without question, and went to meet my friend. She texted that she would be late, part of God’s plan I expect, and so I sat there looking around for the person He had in mind. My spirit had been drawn to a man that was sitting behind me but he had gotten up and left, so I looked around and finding no clues, asked the Lord, “So, who are they for?” Just then that same man came back in, and this time sat at a table to my right. “It’s him.” the Lord replied. and then, as if to make sure I didn’t miss it, He immediately repeated, “It’s him.”

I didn’t need courage, because the Lord was so clear, but asked the man if he liked to read. His responsive yes was all I needed. I jumped up and told him the Lord had asked me to bring him my books and then told him, “They are written for prisoners but please don’t take that personal, because they are for anyone.” “We all have things in our life we’re working on.” I said.

“No,” he replied. “I am one.” “Well, I’m out now, but I’ve been in prison in Chicago for years.”

He then seemed to want to talk, and told me of his life in prison. He spoke of cancer, an aneurysm, stroke and seizures in prison that he had overcome, without the help of the prison system. Then he proceeded to tell me that he now had cancer for the third time. When he said that, faith came out of me like a roar and I said, “Oh, NO, that’s got to go!” “Can I pray for you?” I took his hands and commanded that cancer to leave his body, in Jesus Name.

He received his healing right then and there, but it was January 21st that he texted me and said the doctor could hardly see any cancer on the scan. March 3rd, the doctor couldn’t see any cancer, and this past week it was confirmed with a pet scan. There is no cancer anywhere in his body!

Glory to God!!!

I found out later why the Lord had cut me off and I didn’t wait to hear where he had the cancer, but prayed. I may have been daunted by the report for he had cancer in his brain, face, neck, shoulders and it had started in his bones. I learned that day that the Lord is not daunted by any report!

It was his 3rd round of cancer and stage 4 but that’s not too big for God!

God is the healer, I am not. I was there to connect with him to God. Sometimes we need someone with us to bolster our faith and believe with us.
I explained to him that day that many don’t receive their healing because they don’t believe it until they see it. They keep praying and asking but never “receive” it. Some healings come instantly, but others take time. Faith is the “substance” of things “hoped” for and the “evidence” of things “not” seen.

I told Peppi, that he is healed right now! “Expect to see it, but not be concerned about when.” “Praise and thank God daily for your healing.” “Write healing scriptures on sticky notes and put them where you will see them though-out the day.” “Read them out loud to get them in your ears and down into your heart.” I encouraged. “I’ll do it!” he replied with conviction and a sharp nod of his head.

He wasn’t disappointed!

I rejoice with you, Peppi, and thank you for allowing me to pray with you and for being a shining star to complete my book. You represent all that I write for and I hope that others will take courage from your testimony to trust the Lord with their heart, body and life.

I want every reader to know that no matter what you’re going through, no matter where you”ve been, you’re important to God!

Reader, He knows right where you are, and you are not alone–simply reach out to Him.

Peppi had met the Lord while in prison and was out now and studying to become a prison minister. He told me later that he had planned to go into the prison systems to minister when, suddenly, Covid hit. “Lord, how am I going to get into the prisons now?” he prayed. The Lord answered his prayer bigger than Peppi could imagine. He answered this dying man by healing his body, giving him a testimony of victory to share and now, with God’s help, Peppi’s testimony will be going into prisons all over the country via the next “His Voice in My Heart” book.

If the Lord hadn’t stopped me from finishing that book, June 6th, 2021, it would have already been to the publisher for editing by the time I met Peppi.

I had never met or even seen Peppi before. God introduced us, because He has a plan for Peppi’s life. He not only knows Peppi, but he knew he would be at the coffee shop that day, arranged to have my friend delayed, and sent me to pray with him. Peppi was not forgotten. He may have messed up in life, but God will use his testimony for His Glory!

You are not forgotten either . . . you have a future waiting to unfold.

God’s timing is perfect–listen to Him–He knows just what you need!

Peppi told me later that prior to all this he had been discouraged and had thought about going back to Chicago. He had trouble finding a place to live because no one wanted to rent to him, given his record. His sister, Lois, told him, “Peppi, if you come back to Chicago you will miss your blessing!”

Lois was right! Soon after, someone did take a chance and offered Peppi an apartment, 5 minutes away from his church. That was the stipulation Peppi had put in his prayer and God answered that prayer!

Peppi, you’re on your way–Your future is bright!

Thank you, God, for allowing me to be a part of his story.

I pray for God’s Blessing to be upon you, Peppi, all the days of your life and I know that God has already answered my prayer!

All Glory Be to God!

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own insight. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” Proverbs 3:5

Nothing is too Insignificant for God

Jul23

Yesterday, my daughter and I spent the entire day together. It is rare that we can carve time together and this time was one of the best! We went to Glen Arbor, our favorite summer getaway, had lunch and shopped in the village’s quaint little shops; topping this peaceful, sunny day off at the beach with a picnic. It was a tranquil day that was healing to my heart, and that’s right where I’ll keep it!

The Lord gave my daughter something else to remember from that day. A glimpse at how much He cares for us, by an answer to prayer that only He could do!

As we enjoyed our picnic, in a sheltered space that was surrounded with beach shrubbery and hidden from people, a sudden little gust of wind took our grocery bag away. It was held down with a heavy object but this didn’t seem to bother the wind as it quickly snatched it from us. Before we could get up and down to the water, it was already out way too deep and steadily heading out in spite of the waves heading in. It bothered me that we had just littered, but there was no way to reach it as we watched it, amazingly, continue to stay afloat. I was troubled that my receipt went with it, thinking that my name was probably on it. It troubled me so much that I prayed and asked the Lord to bring it back, and then commanded it to come back to me, in Jesus Name! By now 20 minutes or more had gone by and we had walked up and down the beach, continuing to marvel that we could still see the bag bobbing on the waves; as far out as our eyes could see.

I was standing on the edge of the water when I looked down, just as a receipt arrived from the water and met my toes.

You know, my name wasn’t on that receipt after all, but everything I had bought was. It was my receipt, and it spoke volumes to my daughter about answered prayer. About our wonderful Lord, who loves us so much that He cares about the little, seemingly, insignificant things–significant enough to bother us.

That’s our King!

His Name is Jesus!

“Cast all your anxieties on him, for he cares about you.” I Peter 5:7

“Truly, truly, I say to you, he who believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I go to the Father. Whatever you ask in my name, I will do it, that the Father may be glorified in the Son; if you ask anything in my name, I will do it.” John 14:12-14