Tag Archive | love

Make Way For The King

To traverse time, man would find it difficult, but I AM time.

“I am the Alpha and the Omega, says the Lord God, who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.” Rev 1:8

I waste no time; though man wastes years–

I will redeem!

As the years speed away, I AM redeeming the lost. I AM recovering the blind, causing them to ‘SEE’ My purpose for their life.

“And I will lead the blind in a way that they know not, in paths that they have not known I will guide them. I will turn darkness before them into light, the rough places into level ground. These are the things I will do, and I will not forsake them.” Isaiah 42:16

Unity is not something man can accomplish without Divine intervention, for each drifts to their own way.

I will gather.

I will fine-tune each heart as an instrument of My Love. I gather My orchestra– orchestrate My symphony.

A song so sweet has never been sung, for the music has yet to be written.

Angels long to hear!

Begin to sing praises – in this, you tune your voice to receive notes you have never sung.

This is a new season, for the reason is clear . . .

I AM no longer a baby hidden away . . .

No longer a carpenter explaining, ‘The Way’ . . .

I AM the Everlasting King — MAKE WAY!

“O sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord, all the earth! Sing to the Lord, bless his name; tell of his salvation from day to day. Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous works among all the peoples! For great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised; he is to be feared above all gods. For all the gods of the peoples are idols; but the Lord made the heavens. Honor and majesty are before him; strength and beauty are in his sanctuary. Ascribe to the Lord, O families of the peoples, ascribe to the Lord glory and strength! Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name; bring an offering, and come into his courts! Worship the Lord in holy array; tremble before him, all the earth! Say among the nations, ‘The Lord reigns! Yea, the world is established, it shall never be moved; he will judge the peoples with equity.’ Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice; let the sea roar, and all that fills it; let the field exult, and everything in it! Then shall all the trees of the wood sing for joy before the Lord, for he comes, for he comes to judge the earth. He will judge the world with righteousness, and the peoples with his truth.” Psalms 96:1-13

“Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father, but by me.'” John 14:6

“Sing to the Lord a new song, his praise from the end of the earth!” Isaiah 42:10

Was I Really Dreaming?

Sep3

Sometime in the night I was awake and thought about writing a post today, about the nearly dozen eggs that I had exploded all over my kitchen. Yes, it really happened, and I am shocked at how thoroughly an egg can explode. Not just blown open, but in pulverized fragments that covered my kitchen. I had put them on to cook, threw in some laundry and then proceeded into my quiet place where I got so caught up in spending time with the Lord that I had no memory of cooking them. Even when I heard the explosions, I thought it was an odd sound, but didn’t readily investigate. I thought it must be the neighbors. When I finally realized it was actually in my house, the pan then exploded the final egg!

What a mess!

My microwave, which was perfectly fine, now makes this very loud noise even though the eggs weren’t in it but cooked below it. I think the extreme heat/steam has warped the outer casing and now it vibrates. I am leaving it off for a bit to decide what to do. Too many online reviews say the newer microwaves, no matter the brand, just aren’t the quality they used to be. I am reluctant to scrap mine and hope I don’t have to. I don’t quite understand why the Lord didn’t clue me in on the brewing storm, except that maybe I needed to see the serious consequences of putting food on the stove to cook and leaving the vicinity. I have done this too many times. There are just so many more interesting things than cooking anymore. I’ve lost interest in it, and just cook to get it done!

The Dream:

So, this morning, I had a dream. In fact, I was sleeping so soundly that I slept until 9:34 and woke up from such a deep place that it took me a minute to realize I was awake and where I was. I had slept without hearing a text that came in an hour prior, and that is really not like me.

I woke up remembering the dream in every detail. The people, the conversation, what they were wearing, action, the miracle. I highly suspect the Lord had taken me there on a mission. You can believe or not, it’s up to you. I’m just relating what happened. I don’t even know myself, for absolutely sure, but it is just so very clear. Too clear–especially to make up the conversation in one’s head, back and forth in real time. He has done this before. I have experienced many miraculous things and I never limit the God who doesn’t know impossible. I related in a text to a friend this morning, “I kinda think we are going to be in for many surprises when we go to Heaven and learn of the many ways we were ‘used’ for Him and didn’t even realize it.” . . .

When there is a willing heart, He is able.

So in the dream, I was driving a car in a land that is foreign to me and just then a teenager, on a bike, rode up and kind of side-swiped into my car. He fell off the bike, so I got out of the car and asked him if I could pray for him, because he seemed so startled. He was agreeable, and we were about to, but a woman came up and said, “We can’t pray together, because we don’t pray to the same God.” I replied, “That may be so, and you can do what you want, but I am going to pray to the only God that can save and heal. Jesus Christ is the Son of God and it is only by His Blood that we can be saved, by His Blood that we are healed.”

At that, I was about to pray for this young man but I looked up to see a boy in a wheelchair that had apparently come with the woman. He had a look of determination on his face and he started to struggle, as if to get up. The woman looked over at him surprised and asked to him, “Are you wanting to try to stand?” She started to walk back to him, she had walked about 4 steps away from him to approach me, but he made a gesture with his hand that indicated he didn’t want her help. When suddenly, he stood–all by himself!

I hadn’t prayed for him, he had just heard and believed–and stood up!

He started to walk, very stiff-like at first, but he got stronger with each step. He looked almost like a straight stick, he was so thin. The woman then told me that he has never walked. I asked how old he is and she gave me an age range of around 4. I thought that was strange and said, “Don’t you know how old he is?” and then I learned that he was adopted and she really didn’t know his actual age. He looked older to me than 4. He was taller than I would think he would be for 4 and seemed more like a 6 year old. He was dressed in thin light pants and shirt, of what seemed like a cotton material. She had dark clothes and so did the boy with the bike.

The dream then ended and I woke up more rested than I have been in weeks. I needed that rest. I have been pushing hard all summer and the egg explosion was traumatizing to my exhausted soul.

Whether I was there or not will one day be revealed, but what is revealed right now is that Jesus is here for you. Whether you were taught to believe in Him or not–whether you believe or not. He wants to save you–He wants to heal you–He LOVES you!

The Holy Bible is very clear–He is the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father, but through Jesus. He is the One and only TRUE God. You can believe Him or not, it’s your choice. I am not trying to force Him on anyone.

I respect your right to believe what you choose, but I ask you . . .

Does your God Save?

Does your God Heal?

Does your God bring you Freedom?

Does your God bring you Joy?

Does your God give you Peace?

Does your God Love you?

Does your God answer your prayers?

Did your God die for you?

Do you know for certain where you will go when you die?

All these, and so much more, you should carefully consider–for if your answer is not yes to every one of them, then you are not following TRUTH.

If no, then you are not safe and you are not free.

I urge you to seek Jesus. ♥

“Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father, but by me.” John 14:6

“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

“He who believes in the Son of God has the testimony in himself. He who does not believe God has made him a liar, because he has not believed in the testimony that God has borne to his Son. And this is the testimony, that God gave us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He who has the Son has life; he who has not the Son of God has not life. I write this to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life. And this is the confidence which we have in him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us. And if we know that he hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have obtained the requests made of him.” I John 5:10-15

“Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, “Rulers of the people and elders, if we are being examined today concerning a good deed done to a cripple, by what means this man has been healed, be it known to you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead, by him this man is standing before you well. This is the stone which was rejected by you the builders, but which has become the head of the corner. And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.'” Acts 4:8-12

“He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed. For you were straying like sheep, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Guardian of your souls.” I Peter 2:24-25

“And just as it is appointed for men to die once, and after that comes judgment, so Christ, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time, not to deal with sin but to save those who are eagerly waiting for him.” Hebrews 9:27

“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

Just Live

Jul29

It was nearly 40 years ago when I came across my parents and my aunt and uncle talking like their lives were over. I don’t remember what all was said, it was so long ago, but I remember that anger erupted out of my spirit like a roar. I verbally chastised them for thinking and talking that way. I do not choose to be disrespectful to my elders, but they were on a fast track of taking down their own lives.

We greatly underestimate the power of our words!

“Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits.” Proverbs 18:21

The enemy knows this, and uses this as leverage throughout your life, planting thoughts and suggestions aimed at tearing you down. He can’t take your life; you have to partner with him for that to happen. ‘Oh, I would never partner with the devil!’, one adamantly declares.

Are you sure?

Ask the Holy Spirit to help you become aware of your words.

It takes discipline and hard work to re-train your speaking, but if you determine to do this, the Holy Spirit will help you. You will find your words echoing back at you if they don’t align with the Word. But words don’t begin in your mouth, they begin in your mind. To take control of your mouth, you must first control your mind. We must take every thought captive that rises against the knowledge of Christ. The Passion Translation says it like this . . .

“We can demolish every deceptive fantasy that opposes God and break through every arrogant attitude that is raised up in defiance of the true knowledge of God. We capture, like prisoners of war, every thought and insist that it bow in obedience to the Anointed One. Since we are armed with such dynamic weaponry, we stand ready to punish any trace of rebellion, as soon as you choose complete obedience.” 2Corinthians 10:5-6 TPT

“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they might have life, and have it abundantly.” John 10:10

Basically, when you become aware of thoughts that are not life, and are not pleasing to God, take them captive. Speak that out, instead of the thought. Speak the Word against it. You are not responsible, and are not held accountable unless you continue to entertain the thought or speak it and make it your own. “Take no thought saying. . .”

This is a discipline that is hard work, but bears great fruit and just may save your life!

One can never lay their guard down! I am thankful for those close to me, that remind me when I am getting off track, as my son did just yesterday. He courageously corrected my ‘stinking thinking’ and I am grateful that he loves me that much!

Go and love someone enough to tell them the Truth!

So, what happened when I corrected my loved ones from their stinking thinking? Well, they were in their early 60’s at the time, and that was nearly 40 years ago. They were speechless, which tells me they recognized the Truth. They didn’t try to justify, blame or excuse–just listened and took the reprimand to heart–as I did yesterday, when my son spoke.

Truth brings clarity, not shame.

I didn’t just tell them what they were doing wrong, I told them to LIVE! That they had a long, full, life ahead of them and they needed to stop living death and live LIFE!

Truth brings life!

They listened and made an immediate adjustment– so immediate that it even surprised me. The fruit of their efforts is that they lived long and full lives, with many, many, loving friends that enjoyed the life of God emanating from them. My uncle lived to be in his 80’s, his wife until age 96. My parents, as you may read from the recent post about them, are still alive at ages 95 and my dad will be 98 in September. That’s a very long life past 60! I am convinced it would have been different, had they kept up the talk of their death.

“I call heaven and earth to witness against you this day, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse; therefore choose life, that you and your descendants may live, loving the Lord your God, obeying his voice, and cleaving to him; for that means life to you and length of days, that you may dwell in the land which the Lord swore to your fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to give them.” Deuteronomy 30:19-20

The Glenn Miller Orchestra

Recently, my parents and I celebrated their 76th wedding anniversary at a sweet, lakeside restaurant in a village about an hour drive away. On the way home my mom was reminiscing about all the great places they used to enjoy eating out at. “Why don’t you do that now?” I asked. “Because it’s so hard.” came her quick reply. “Yes, but didn’t we have a wonderful time, and wouldn’t it break up the monotony?” She was silent for a moment and then said, “Yes!” It was three days later that she asked me to help her get tickets to the “Glenn Miller Orchestra” which was coming to town to the Opera House. We had about a month of anticipation, while they eagerly looked forward to the event. I sweetened the anticipation by borrowing the “Glenn Miller Story”, from the library. A dvd starring Jimmy Stewart and June Allyson; a good movie, that enhanced my enjoyment of the concert, because I remembered the progression of his career as I listened to the music played. The orchestra leader informed us that the Glenn Miller Orchestra has been traveling and performing continuously over a span of 80 years! Adding new band members as needed, of course.

My dad wasn’t feeling well the day before the concert and prayers were intense that they not be disappointed by not being able to go. The next day he was better, thank the Lord, and we went. My cousin came along, and she also enjoyed the concert immensely. It is her mom and dad that I spoke of above, so it is only fitting that she was there to enjoy this with them. I grew up hearing this music from my parents, so I could appreciate and enjoy it even if it differs from my personal taste. We each have an era of music that takes us back to the youth that our spirit still enjoys, for our spirit doesn’t age, just our bodies. A time that is less stressful and reminds us of happiness of long ago. This was their happy place and it planted a sweet memory in my heart as I glanced over to see my mom and dad snuggle up, clasping their hands together, like teenagers on a date, and I realize that true love never ends–it just grows sweeter with time, and trust.

I love you mom and dad. ♥

Thank you, for sharing your happy place with me!

Thank you, for a memory I will always cherish–thank you, for truly living!

“With long life I will satisfy him, and show him my salvation.” Psalm 91:16 RSV

“You will be satisfied with a full life and with all that I do for you. For you will enjoy the fullness of my salvation!” Psalm 91:16 TPT

His Perfect Timing

Jul22

On my way to feed the homeless yesterday, the thought came to me to stop and check my post office box for mail. I keep that box strictly for book ministry mail and normally always check it on the way back. Reasoning, that I would have more time if I checked it later, resulted in my simply brushing the thought away. How many can join me in finding that, hindsight, often speaks louder than the Lord?

So after a delightful evening of beautiful sunshine, laughter with friends–my homeless and some, non-homeless family–after having served up a feast from, 5loaves2fish, of fresh-caught lake trout, thank you Carlson’s of Leland, fresh garden salad, potato salad, fresh fruit compote, dinner rolls and warm chocolate bread pudding. All homemade–all infused with love! Now, incredibly content, and heading home, I stopped to get my mail. My heart was already full and happy, but yet, there was more– for there in my box, leaned a long white envelope.

It’s always exciting to see real mail.

There is an old adage, “The road is paved with good intentions.” Many say, and intend to do something–even declaring it, but never do it. Truly, pavement, is all a ‘good intention’ is worth, if one doesn’t ever follow through!

However, in Heaven, the Bible tells us, the streets are paved with pure gold!

This ‘pavement’ in my mailbox is–pure gold!

The envelope contained a check from the U.S. Treasury Department, and it took me a minute to realize what it was. I had received a letter from Nicholas about a week ago. Nicholas is a prisoner I have written about before. He had contacted me for books for a class they had allowed him to develop for his prison, in conjunction with Duke University, Divinity Grad School students. He wanted my books to be mandatory reading for the class. With many thanks to Chaplain White, we were able to make that happen. The class was so popular, they graduated 3 classes of men and had over 40 men still on a waiting list to take it. Unfortunately, Chaplain White, either retired or transferred, and the new chaplain shut the class down–declaring that it wasn’t regulation. He also stopped Nicholas from preaching and nearly broke his heart. I urged him to be patient. The chaplain’s reasoning for not allowing him to continue preaching was that he wasn’t an ordained minister. No one can stop God’s plan though, and a visiting clergy came in a few weeks later, told Nicholas that God was pressing on him to come back and ordain him. Two weeks later, he did just that! Nicholas’ preaching has brought many men to salvation and his last letter to me stated that he is blessed to have baptized 119 men in 3 years. I am happy to report that the new chaplain has since gotten to know Nicholas, and he has been allowing him to preach again.

So, why am I telling you all this? Well, the check was from Nicholas, and he had told me that he wanted to join me in feeding the poor. He states that he has a heart for the homeless and wants to serve them when he gets out. He dreams of having a food truck that he can drive around and serve them, right where they are at. Since his circumstances prevent him from doing that, he is starting right now, right where he’s at, and sent a check asking me to get what I could for them.

In God’s and (my) eyes, that $5.00 is like 5 million!

It’s not about the amount is it?

No, it’s all about the heart ♥

“He looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the treasury; and he saw a poor widow put in two copper coins. And he said, ‘Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all of them; for they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty put in all the living that she had.'” Luke 21:2

Nicholas tells me they take half of his check for restitution and out of the remaining he gives to 4 churches and a ministry that helps women that have become victims of sex crimes. This is a man that has repented, received the cleansing Blood of Jesus, and has a committed heart–

A heart of ‘pavement’–the purest gold of Heaven!

“Each one must do as he has made up his mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to provide you with every blessing in abundance, so that you may always have enough of everything and may provide in abundance for every good work. As it is written, ‘He scatters abroad, he gives to the poor; his righteousness endures for ever.’ He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your resources and increase the harvest of your righteousness.” 2Corinthians 9:7-10

We can take a lesson from Nicholas–he KNOWS he messed up. It breaks his heart every day, the harm he caused others and especially the hurt his family is experiencing. Yet, he’s not sulking and shutting down. He has reached out to God and received forgiveness and His abundant love, to first be restored himself, and then to share it with others. He’s surely not free physically, but he is living the freedom the Lord Jesus has bought and paid for him–and doing more valuable work than many will ever do in their entire lifetime.

How about you?

Are you living the life Jesus bought for you or does it need tweaking? Do you even know Him–really KNOW Him???

Be encouraged, Nicholas, is proof that God can use you in any situation, no matter what you have done. All He needs is for you to turn to Him and say yes!

Don’t wait to the end of your life to find out what you may have missed. Life is too short and you are needed now!

Seek Him today!

So, why did I title this “His Perfect Timing”? It wasn’t just because of the check that came on the day I served the homeless, but also a letter, that I had written to Nicholas, took 6 weeks to reach him, and when did he receive it?

Father’s Day!

Happy Father’s Day, Nicholas. It’s long past, but your wife tells me your oldest son is getting baptized this weekend!! You won’t be reading this but I’m just throwing that out there to you. I know you are busting your buttons over him! It’s such a blessing to ‘hear’ you, through your letters, proudly talk of all your children and your wife. I pray that you will soon join your family again . . . In the meantime, thank you for the check and all your hard work in leading men to Jesus . . .

Thank you for doing your part right where you are!

Our Heavenly Father, is busting His buttons over you!

I am excited to announce that an order for 1,200 prison books, the “His Voice In My Heart” series, is at the printers now and will soon be sent to Prison Book Project, the ministry that sends them on to prisons, jails and rehab centers all over the country; and even to our men and women serving our country overseas. It’s but a widow’s mite in my heart because, frankly, I can’t get enough books into their hands; but for what I have been able to do, I am eternally grateful. A big thank you to everyone that has contributed to help me in this ministry!

To all of you, and to Nicholas, this scripture is for you . . .

“It is well with the man who deals generously and lends, who conducts his affairs with justice. For the righteous will never be moved; he will be remembered for ever. He is not afraid of evil tidings; his heart is firm, trusting in the Lord.” Psalm 112:5-7

He Orders Our Steps

Jun30

God gave me the opportunity of helping a young woman in distress today by placing me directly in her path.

I was on my way to serve the homeless, but on the way had to stop at the UPS store. It’s usually a stop, drop and done, but tonight there was a line and it took much longer than expected. Now there was no time to stop at the library and pick up a movie my mom wanted to watch. Abandoning the plan, so I wouldn’t be late, I was heading past the library when suddenly I really had to go to the bathroom. Knowing it would be 2 hours before I would have another chance, I had no choice but to stop at the library after all. Might as well get the movie, since I’m already going to be late. A nice desk guy was looking it up on his computer, to save me some time, but his co-worker beat him to it. He had it looked up, dashed to get it, and placed in my hand before the other guy had even pulled it up on his screen. His little triumphant smile made me laugh.

There’s a festival in town and traffic is crawling, so now I’m calculating just how late, when the traffic in front of me abruptly stops–leaving me stretched over a crosswalk. So now I’m literally in this young woman’s path as I rolled the window down and apologized for blocking the crosswalk. She replied, “Oh that’s ok, but could you give me a ride?” “I’ve just been released from jail and I’m so hot I feel sick. Can you take me to my dad’s?” It took me about a second to think about how late I already was before saying . . .

“Yes, of course–hop in!”

She was nearly dropping from heat exhaustion. It was high 80’s and she had on a sweatshirt and had walked a bit. Thanking me profusely, she proceeded to tell me that she had asked 6 people before me, and every one had just turned away. I am so saddened that our world has become so cold and indifferent!

How would they feel if it was their daughter that was in distress and no one would help?

I’m glad I didn’t have enough time to say yes, because this is so great. . . I don’t know how He did it– you can see all the steps and delays it took to put me in her path; but somehow, even after driving miles out of my way and back again when I already didn’t have enough time to make it as it was– I made it on time!

All He needed was my–Yes!

Wouldn’t it have been terrible if after all that, I just shook my head at her and drove off?

Are you ready to say yes, even when it’s not convenient? If you are, then you can expect an opportunity. You’ll be really glad you did! She made the comment to me, “You’re really happy helping others.” “Yes, absolutely!” Then I just couldn’t help myself. . . I bubbled over telling her about my ministry to prisoners and the books from the Lord that I’ve written for them . . . gave her my books and no doubt pushed her over the edge, because I just can’t seem to contain my exuberance. . .

It’s all about HIM! ♥

But you know, I think that’s just how the Father is when He talks about us–He just can’t contain His exuberance!

God loves you so much. . . He goes out of His way to put someone across your path–at just the right time!

If you don’t believe me–just ask Him.

He orders our steps.

“When the Son of Man appears in his majestic glory, with all his angels by his side, he will take his seat on his throne of splendor, and all the nations will be gathered together before him. And like a shepherd who separates the sheep from the goats, he will separate all the people. The ‘sheep’ he will put on his right side and the ‘goats’ on his left.”

“And then those on his left will say, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty and not give you food and something to drink? When did we see you homeless, or poorly clothed? When did we see you sick and not help you, or in prison and not visit you? Then he will answer them, ‘Don’t you know? When you refused to help one of the least important among these my little ones, my true brothers and sisters, you refused to help and honor me.’ and they will depart from his presence and go into eternal punishment. But the godly and beloved ‘sheep’ will enter into eternal bliss.” Matthew 25:31-33, 44-46 TPT

“The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, And he delighteth in his way.” Psalm 37:23 KJV

Enduring and Everlasting Love

Jun19

Today I give honor to a couple that are near and dear to my heart. In fact, I have known them all my life–they are my mom and dad, Tom and Grace Bloxsom.

Today they celebrate something that is very rare and wonderful–

→ 76 years of marriage ♥

Very few will ever accomplish such a feat; sadly, these days, most do not even try. Sin, selfishness and rebellion have given marriage a negative connotation; but my parents have lived and demonstrated it in the true meaning of the word, two lives joined together as one–for always.

As anyone that has been married can attest, it is not always easy, and often can be hard work, but it is the commitment that determines the outcome. For my parents, this commitment has been non-negotiable. For better or worse, in good times and bad, sickness and in health, they have remained faithful to their vows and to each other.

So today, and every day, I honor them! ♥

Their commitment to each other and their willingness to persevere, even in the tough times has given them a resilience, also rarely seen in the elderly. At the ages of 95 and nearly 98 my parents are independent and their minds are sharp! In this, I believe, God too, has honored them; as they have lived their lives in honor to Him and their marriage–in honor to each other.

“And he said to him, ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it. You shall love your neighbor as yourself.'” Matthew 22:37-39

Who is our closest neighbor but those living in our own household? If you have failed the second commandment, it is likely that you have failed the first. Repent, and give honor to God; from Him, receive what you need to honor and love your spouse.

Is He truly Lord of your life or are you?

I believe He has something very special in store for you, when you sort that one out–it’s not too late!

God is faithful, even when we are not, for He cannot deny Himself.

“‘This saying is sure: If we have died with him, we shall also live with him; if we endure, we shall also reign with him; if we deny him, he will also deny us; if we are faithless, he remains faithful–for he cannot deny himself.'” 2 Timothy 2:11-13

Seek Him with your ‘whole’ heart!

So, this year brings another special, momentous, and rarely seen occasion, Our family business–Bloxsom Roofing Company; founded by my grandfather in 1925, now 100 years old! My dad began working for his dad in this business when he was just 12 years old. He and his brothers retired from it and passed it down to my brothers and cousins; it is still family run, now by my brother and cousin’s son, to this day. I am told that less than 1% of family businesses make it to 100 years. Just as in marriage, it takes commitment–perseverance in good times and bad. It takes commitment to each other when you don’t always agree. It takes honor, faithfulness, honesty and integrity. It takes a foundation built on the principles that God placed before us in His Word, the Holy Scriptures–it takes forgiveness and love.

My grandpa will be so pleased to learn that his business carried on for many years, long after he left to join the Lord in his forever home. . .

I expect he already knows ♥

Do you see? As hard as this life is, with its ever-increasing stress–the intensity of coldness increasingly taking over the hearts of men–yet you can accomplish it all by first receiving Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. Above all, give first, your honor to God. If you commit to Him, and to placing others before yourself–from your communion with Him you will receive all you need to do this. From His Presence, and from reading His Word, you will ever-increasingly be taking on His characteristics and His nature and then–naturally–love your neighbor as yourself.

“‘You shall not kill. You shall not commit adultery. You shall not steal. You shall not bear false witness. Honor your father and mother, and You shall love your neighbor as yourself.'” Matthew 19:18-19

This is the legacy my grandparents lived–handed down to my parents, and they have modeled for their world.

Thank you, mom and dad ♥ Today, every day, I honor you!

“‘Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land which the Lord your God gives you.'” Exodus 20:12, Deut. 5:16

“Give respect to your father and mother, for without them you wouldn’t even be here. And don’t neglect them when they grow old. Embrace the truth and hold it close. Don’t let go of wisdom, instruction, and life-giving understanding. When a father observes his child living in godliness, he is ecstatic with joy–nothing makes him prouder! So may your father’s heart burst with joy and your mother’s soul be filled with gladness because of you.” Proverbs 23:22-25 TPT

A Gift of New Life

May28

A Mother’s Day Gift From My Church

This rose was given to me on Mother’s Day, May 11, 2025. It is now 17 days later and it has not lost a single petal. Its original leaves fell off fairly quickly but, no matter, as you can see it started growing new ones! With all this new growth, you would think it would be sprouting roots but not a single root has come forth from the cut stem. There are a few petals on the bottom that darkened and dried within; which I finally figured out it was because of my coffee cup that I had set just below it. I didn’t think about the steam rising. I have conferred with the other moms of my church, that received roses from the same batch, and every one has noted that God is doing something with this rose, and stated that their roses, though beautiful, did not last like this one.

This has reminded me of another rose, a long time ago . . .

Many years ago when my kids were small I was given a white rose from my church on Resurrection Sunday. What happened with this rose may sound far-fetched to you, but I stand before God and tell you it is the truth. He has done many, many things in my life that seem astounding, but He doesn’t know impossible, and often brings wonders to remind us of that fact.

The rose was pure white and absolutely beautiful. So beautiful that I was sad to see it droop over, as it began its decline. A cut rose doesn’t live forever and I expect this is what makes them a precious gift to the receiver. Now for the amazing part. . . remember I said it was given on Resurrection Sunday, well, three days after it drooped its head over, it lifted back up. Seriously it did, and you can choose to believe me or not, that won’t change the fact, it happened. So, this rose dried standing in water. It dried perfectly and didn’t brown. When I saw that it was dried, I took it out of the vase of water and hung it upside down in my kitchen. It stayed that way for 2 years, but everyone was so amazed by it, they kept touching it, because it looked so “real.” All the touching and probably oils from the fingers finally took its toll on it and ruined it. I’m just as guilty, the petals felt sort of like leather and it was so amazing, I just wanted to touch it– everyone did.

“And he began to teach them that the Son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected by the elders and the chief priests and the scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again.” Mark 8:31

Have you suffered many things?

Don’t give up hope. Lift up your head and seek Him for a new beginning. He has restoration for you! See your past as a springboard to your future. What did you learn and how can you grow from it?

Some have suffered horrific things from evil and those influenced by it. May God comfort you, heal you and release you from those painful memories. May His mercy be upon you and protect you. May you find that His comfort brings you to a place of safety and hope. May He give you peace and may you be filled with joy, once again.

“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly. I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” John 10:10-11

“I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and whoever lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?” John 11:25

“Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father, but by me.” John 14:6

The Evidence of His Love

Apr19

A few weeks ago I pulled into the church parking lot, glanced over and saw this . . .

We had just had a light, overnight snow. It was the last real snow of the season and if I had missed church that day, it would have been a message lost; for no one happened to see it but me and the snow had melted by the time church was over. The person that drove the car had not noticed what he had created, and though he was driving the car, I am convinced that he wasn’t the creator of this message. This unrealized perfection has to have come from God! Sometimes we are called to be a witness, a confirmation, to another. On this particular day, this unknown event, really encouraged the speaker who had planned to teach on Love.

What have you been called to witness?

“But thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumph, and through us spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of him everywhere. For we are the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing, to one a fragrance from death to death, to the other a fragrance from life to life.”
2 Corinthians 2:14-16

This weekend, the fragrance of Christ Jesus is everywhere, but the question is, what aroma are you emitting? Is it the fragrance of life unto life–are you filled with the fullness of Jesus living within? Is your desire to grow ever closer to Him and to call others to know of His goodness?

“And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled only to those who are perishing. In their case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the likeness of God.”
2 Corinthians 4:4

Today is the Day to Choose LIFE–Choose JESUS!

“Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and whoever lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?'”
John 11:25-26

“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

The True Meaning Of Christmas

Dec24

Last night, a group I am blessed to serve with, 5loaves2fish, offered our homeless a special meal of Roast Pork Tenderloin, caramelized with a delicious mustard sauce and served with a pour-over of rich au jus. This was accompanied with roasted fresh purple carrots and potatoes, Ceasar salad, homemade dinner rolls and fragrant, homemade sticky Cinna-bites for dessert.

It is Jesus’ gift to me, to be given the privilege to offer such a beautiful and delicious meal to a special group of guests–near and dear to His heart! It is in His trust that we love as He loves. It is out of His compassion that we pour His love out of our hearts week after week, all year long, year after year.

It is truly better to give than to receive, but we could truly not give, lest first we’ve received–kindness and grace only come from above.

We love, because He first loved us.

If your thoughts and heart are irritated to hear of a lavish meal and warm bed being offered to those without, my prayer is for you to receive; for they have found the riches you lack–

they truly appreciate and want to give back!

“We love, because he first loved us. If any one says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, cannot love God whom he has not seen. And this commandment we have from him, that he who loves God should love his brother also.” I John 4:19-20

Merry Christmas Everyone!

I pray that you receive Jesus as your Lord and Savior.

May your heart be filled with His love and compassion to overflow onto those He leads your way.

May you have peace that surpasses all understanding. May you be rich with the true riches found only in Him!

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7 NKJV

May you find Jesus, and He will then be with you every step of the way.

May you be BLESSED!

This, my friends, is the true meaning of Christmas . . .

“He who has two coats, let him share with him who has none; and he who has food, let him do likewise.” Luke 3:11

“Is this not the fast that I choose: to loose the bonds of wickedness, to undo the thongs of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke? Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, and bring the homeless poor into your house; when you see the naked, to cover him, and not to hide yourself from your own flesh? then shall your light break forth like the dawn, and your healing shall spring up speedily; your righteousness shall go before you, the glory of the Lord shall be your rear guard. Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer; you shall cry, and he will say, Here I am. If you take away from the midst of you the yoke, the pointing of the finger, and speaking wickedness. If you pour yourself out for the hungry and satisfy the desire of the afflicted, then shall your light rise in the darkness, and your gloom be as the noonday. And the Lord will guide you continually, and satisfy your desire with good things, and make your bones strong; and you shall be a watered garden, like a spring of water, whose waters fail not. and your ancient ruins shall be rebuilt; you shall raise up the foundations of many generations; you shall be called the repairer of the breach, the restorer of streets to dwell in.” Isaiah 58:6-12

“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

JESUS, is the True meaning of Christmas! ♥

This year, if you haven’t already, choose to RECEIVE and truly LIVE–to GIVE–the True Meaning of Christmas!

Merry Christmas

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!