Mountains and Valleys

On November 14, 2024 By vickleaIn Scripture, Song, Video, YouVersion App1 Comment

There Was Jesus: On the Mountain and In the Valleys (YouVersion Devotional, “There Was Jesus”)

Sometimes, I don’t know what’s harder to remember: to praise Him in the hard times or to praise Him in the good times. He’s with us during both and every time in between. Remember the last time you had a really great day? Did you recognize Jesus with you that day? Were you mindful of His presence? Did you thank Him for that good day? It’s not often that I remember that He is with me when I have a good day, probably because things feel under control.

Just like in yesterday’s scriptures, trusting that God is with us in difficult times poses its own set of challenges, but as there are scriptures to remind us He is with us during the rough times, there are scriptures to remind us He is with us during the good times too.

James 5:13 says, “Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise.”

It doesn’t say to sing praise only when times are bad or only when times are good.

My prayer is that we can always look around and recognize His presence at all times; good and bad, on the mountain and in the valleys. 1 Chronicles 16:11 tells us to “seek His presence continually.” I invite you to do an exercise with me right now: take a look around and thank God for existing in this place and in this time right now. You may not feel anything; you may not see anything, but trust that He’s there with you right now.

‘Every minute, every moment

Of where I been and where I’m going

Even when I didn’t know it

Or couldn’t see it

There was Jesus.’

My Thoughts

Usually, my life, and probably yours, too, goes in cycles. I’m on a mountaintop and then in a valley (or traveling between the two). Yesterday started to be a regular day for me with an appointment for a Doppler test at my neurologist’s office. My husband was driving, and suddenly (like really fast), the car in front of us braked and Harry had to brake quickly. Praise God for looking out for us! We didn’t hit the car in front of us and the car behind us didn’t smash into us, either. I thought about my verses for this week in Psalm 121:7-8 that remind me that God “keeps me in my going out and coming in.” We continued on our journey and a car darted out of a side road, right in front of us. It was like he didn’t see us or was daring us to hit him or something. Once again, Harry employed a hard brake and I was thankful for God’s calming presence. Yesterday’s trip was like trying not to play “bumper cars” on the roads to the hospital.

Then, I had my Doppler. The technician that does the test has been doing them annually for me for the last nine years, so I am acquainted with him but he has never really been talkative. I decided that was just his personality and just followed his instructions. But yesterday, he was talkative and said more than, “Lie down on the table, please.” He asked if I could get on the table and would I be okay there for a few minutes on my back. Then he chatted with me a little as the test proceeded. At the end of the test, which took less than fifteen minutes, he told me that he saw a little blockage in my carotid and hoped it didn’t get any worse. Well, for someone who has had a stroke, a blockage of any kind is not good news, to say the least. I told him that I would be praying about it, he walked me to the exit and I was done.

So, was all this a mountain or a valley? I honestly don’t know. I felt God with me in the car as we avoided accidents that could have been the result of driver error (the other drivers). I felt God with me when I was with the technician, soothing me to be okay on a hard table with a bad back. And when the technician told me I have a little blockage, I focused on the word “little” instead of the blockage. I knew right away that was something I would need to be praying about in order to achieve peace about it.

Regardless, I knew that God was right there with me. He tells me in His Word that He won’t leave me and that He would keep me as I traveled, and He did, He does, and He will. I contacted my neurologist to ask what the plan is now that my Doppler has been done and I expect to hear from him in a couple of days. Whatever the plan is, God will be beside me.

“There Was Jesus”-Zach Williams and Dolly Parton

Just Read Blog Tour: FIRST CHRISTMAS PERSONALIZED STORYBOOK

On November 13, 2024November 13, 2024 By vickleaIn blog tour, Book Promo, Book Review1 Comment

Welcome to the Blog Tour for the First Christmas Personalized Story Book by StoryBug, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Title: First Christmas Personalized Story Book
Publisher: Storybug
Release Date: August 1, 2024 Genre: Children’s Christmas Gift Book
Immerse your little one in the joy of their first Christmas with the ‘First Christmas Personalized Story Book,’ where the magic of the holiday season comes alive through a story tailored just for them. Though they may not yet read, the sound of a loved one narrating a tale that features them will fill their world with wonder and make this personalized storybook a memorable part of their early Christmases.

Purchase Link:

Storybug

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My Thoughts

I personalized this book for a brand new niece who is celebrating her first Christmas this year. The personalization was customizable, with numerous choices for both the baby and the parents. The story itself is for infants and young toddlers, and is one that is cleverly written about Christmas activities like unwrapping gifts together as a family. I really like how all of the family members are portrayed and are the central focus of this heartwarming and touching story. The illustrations are eye-catching and beautifully realistic, with bright colors and plenty of details for the parents to point out to their young child as they share the joy of the season with this darling book. The love between the parents and the baby shines forth on each page, with sparking eyes and unending smiles. This special creation even has a dedication page so that the person gifting the book can be recognized, too. With a story that is genuinely engaging for the entire family and memories that will be made in reality, this book is a definite keepsake and a pleasure to gift to a special new baby in my life.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own.

About the Publisher

Story Bug is inspiring kids to read more through the use of fully personalized children’s storybooks.

Visit storybug.com to follow them on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(5) winners will each receive a hardcover book from StoryBug!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight November 13, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on November 20, 2024. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

Jesus Is With Us

On November 12, 2024 By vickleaIn Scripture, YouVersion App1 Comment

There Was Jesus: When I Couldn’t See It

“Hindsight is 20/20!”

How many times have I said that to myself after something happens or after a lesson I’ve learned? Many times. When things feel chaotic, uncertain or scary, we often act on impulse in the hope of controlling a situation; we can lash out, run away or do any number of things in the midst of a crisis. That’s very normal but it can result in some sad things. We live in a skeptical world and it feels like lately, it’s harder and harder to feel Jesus’ presence. Jesus is with us at all times, even in the moments where we can’t blatantly see His work. Oftentimes, when we come out on the other side of a crisis, we look back and see that Jesus was with us the whole time, and that He used the situation for His good — that’s a ‘Hindsight is 20/20” moment. We need to start trusting and believing that Jesus is with us while experiencing something chaotic, uncertain or scary. We can remind ourselves that Jesus is with us by looking at His Word. Joshua 1:9 tells us to be “strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Another way to feel His presence is to give thanks. When everything is crashing around us, that is really, really hard. With every inhale and exhale we take, we have something to give thanks for ⁠— breath in our lungs ⁠— so cling to that when you can’t see Jesus working in a moment to be reminded He’s with you.

My Thoughts

I don’t know about you, but my tendency when the going gets rough is to hide away, cry, read and sometimes argue with God about the circumstances. I am learning to sit still, read my Bible, recall Scriptures that I have memorized and use those verses to remind myself that Jesus is right there with me. We aren’t Thomas the disciple who doubted until He actually saw Jesus. If we look, we can see Him working in our lives every day. It’s just that we get so busy that we don’t take time to look. And then when a crisis comes, we try to handle things ourselves first and then, in utter desperation, we turn to God. I am trying to train myself to turn to God first. Medical issues? Talk to God. Scary things I have to do? Talk to God. Lonely and missing my children? Talk to God.

My memory verse for this week is helping me to remember that Jesus gave us a Helper, one who reminds us of His teachings and His presence with us.

I was challenged by our Sunday school teacher to start memorizing a verse a week. I am on week 5, and so far, so good. My first reaction was that I am too old to put anything else into my brain. I mean, I go into the kitchen and have to look around to try to remember why I’m there. But, the Caleb, our teacher, encouraged us, and the Holy Spirit spoke to my heart and told me He would help me. And He has! I found that I can put my verses on a notecard and take them with me as we travel to our various appointments. I say them first thing in the morning and last thing before bed at night. And since I am a visual learner, writing the verses out several times helps, as well as having the verse with an image as portrayed here.

I say all of that about memory verses to let you know that these verses are helping me to remember to stay calm and focused on God. I don’t like change, of any kind, at all, ever! So, yesterday, when appointments had to be shuffled, my physical response was to have a soaring blood pressure. Then, I paused, did some nice deep breathing and focused on God. I told myself that God was with me and recited some of my verses. My heart stopped pounding and slowly my head stopped hurting, too. All good news for a stroke survivor! And a reason to be thankful, which I agree is a way to stay focused on God and His power in your life.

If you need help with staying focused on the Lord, I strongly recommend memorizing Scriptures. God’s Word is a constant source of strength, even when the world seems to be spinning the wrong way.

Waiting

On November 11, 2024 By vickleaIn promises, Scripture, YouVersion App1 Comment

There Was Jesus: In the Waiting (You Version Devotional, “There Was Jesus” by Zach Williams)

One of the things we all can agree on is that, as a culture, we’re not good at waiting; we’ve invented so many ways to get out of waiting in lines, waiting on food to cook and waiting for paint to dry. I’ll admit, I’ve been conditioned to expect things quickly and right when I ask. When I read a verse like Isaiah 40:31, where it lists out the wonderful things that can happen when we wait on God, it’s challenging to follow through, especially when times are tough. I believe our impatience comes from our need to remain in control. It’s scary and goes against what we naturally want to do in most situations; hold tight and only trust ourselves. God has given us guidance on the best way to live, and sometimes, the best way to allow God to have control of a situation is to wait on Him. It requires existing in a space that feels unknown, trusting in His process, and believing that He has a plan for our lives. Easier said than done, right? What should we be doing during the waiting? Romans 12:12 tells us to be “constant in prayer.” While we’re waiting on God’s timing, prayer helps connect us to Him and helps us to focus our faith. Ephesians 4:2 tells us that we should spend our time loving others, being gentle with each other, and to “walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called.” Basically, God has asked us to trust Him with the timing, but to walk along with Him in the meantime.

Waiting on God doesn’t mean we’re separated from Him. He’s always right alongside us. Exodus 14:14 tells us, “The Lord will fight for you, and you have only to be silent.” He’s fighting for us and with us in the waiting and the searching, every minute and every moment.

My Thoughts

I don’t know about you, but waiting is hard for me. I am not so much “in an instant”as in my own timing. I don’t like to wait because, as the author of the devotional wrote, it means I have to relinquish my control over something. Change and waiting throws me, every time. I try to be in prayer and wait, but I get anxious, and my blood pressure soars. I try not to be anxious, but that doesn’t work because in trying not be anxious, I get more anxious. It’s like I am on a Ferris wheel, stuck on the top and unable to get off or to make the thing move and get me back down to the ground. So, I am working on learning to calm my thoughts and think about Jesus walking beside me, or even sitting in that Ferris wheel next to me, holding my hand and asking me to tell Him about my day. I’m glad that He is patiently still working on me.

This morning, I got up early and got ready for my appointment with my neurologist. Every year since my stroke, I have to go in to get a Doppler on my carotid artery. The procedure isn’t painful so it’s not a big deal. That is, until an hour and a half before I am supposed to leave, the doctor’s office calls, says there is a problem with today’s schedule and wants me to come in tomorrow. You would think that I would roll with the punches, as they say, just write down the new time and move on. Well, instead, I had to juggle another appointment to take my car in for brake work and there were two changes to the schedule this week already. Not bad, right? Unless you have my body and my mind which has its own way of dealing with change and waiting…my blood pressure soared and I had to take my extra pill that is only for such occasions as this. As my husband says, I am not conditioned for change because change in my home growing up meant my mom would get angry and I would be the target. I have basically spent my whole life trying to avoid change, but then along comes God who wants me to get accustomed to it so He can teach me that change is not a bad thing. I am now putting myself into His capable and loving hands and praying for my BP to regulate so my head will stop pounding. I am doing my deep breathing exercises and reading my Bible while I also pray. There is no magic formula for me to de-stress when change happens, but believe it or not, I am getting better at accepting the waiting part of change. My body still reacts physically, but my heart is calmer, knowing that the Lord is right beside me. He is waiting, too, for me to be calm enough to listen. So, appointment tomorrow…no problem! Car on Wednesday, not a big deal. God’s got this and me, in His hands and He is molding me to be more like him. After all, that is what I have been praying for. And if this change and waiting stuff is what it takes, then I am ready to fight that stress battle with the Lord holding my hand and speaking in my ear!

What to Put On

On November 10, 2024November 9, 2024 By vickleaIn Scripture, Song, YouVersion App3 Comments

Cultivate What Matters Most (You Version Bible App, Daily Devotional, 11-09-24)

Imagine putting on shirts of compassion, patience and forgiveness. That might seem ridiculous, but Colossians 3:12 tells us to “clothe ourselves” in traits that match our identity in Christ. In other words, we need to cover ourselves in actions and attitudes that result in us looking more like Jesus every day.

So, how do we do this? One way to get started is by thinking of the struggles that keep you from living more like Jesus, and then start to replace them with their opposite action.

If your communication leans sarcastic and cutting, choose to say something kind instead.
If you tend to come across as harsh, choose to do something that requires gentleness.
If you’re holding a grudge, choose to extend forgiveness.

As you go about doing that, choose to take part in activities that build you up spiritually. This could look like connecting with friends who will keep you accountable, memorizing Scripture that you can apply to your life, or cultivating compassion by serving in your community. The more you intentionally pursue actions that lead to humility, compassion, and kindness, the more those traits will become a natural part of your life.

And as you pursue the qualities mentioned in Colossians 3:12, the changes this produces will be most evident in the way you treat other people. The apostle John said that we can’t claim to love Jesus if we hate each other (1 John 4:20), so a life that reflects Jesus is going to embody love. And according to 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, love is “patient and kind. … It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. … Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.”

A life marked by God’s love is going to display the very things the apostle Paul talks about in Colossians 3:12.

So if we want to live like Jesus, then we need to receive the new life He’s given to us and accept His unconditional love. Only then can we begin to reflect His love to others by showing people compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.

My Thoughts

Now is not the time to run around and brag about the victory of your favorite candidate. Now is the time to be kind and patient and tender-hearted. I remember how depressed and anxious I felt four years ago when Biden was elected. I was dismayed and in total denial. Now, I can apply that to family members and friends who supported Harris. They need to vent, and I need to be willing to listen. Pointing out the ungodly policies of their candidate will not help them. They are afraid because the MSM told them that Trump will destroy everything. So, instead of using words to point out facts, words that they cannot hear right now, I am choosing to be kind and compassionate and just listen. If they have a question, I will answer without being snarky. I want to show them the kindness that I would want shown to me if the other candidate had won.

This verse is perfect for right now and for every day. I am retired so my choice of attire in the mornings after I shower is warm pj’s or cool ones, depending on the weather. Sometimes, on appointment or meeting days, I even get dressed. But my outward appearance isn’t what matters to other people or to God. They want to see how I will treat them, even if they believe differently than I do. If we want to be like Jesus, we have to be willing to meet people right where they are and to just listen to what they need from us. Sometimes, it’s just kindness and compassionate understanding. Sometimes, we are called to act, like providing a person breakfast or a hot drink. Whatever we can do to be more like Jesus, then we need to choose to do it. It may not be comfortable for us like wearing pj’s all day, but stepping out and helping others know that Jesus is real and loves them is our mission in life. There is nothing more important that showing someone you love them so that they, in turn, can believe in the love of Jesus.

Kindness-Steven Curtis Chapman

Review of DEADLY REVENGE by Patricia Bradley

On November 9, 2024 By vickleaIn Book Promo, Book ReviewLeave a comment

About the Book

Product Details

ISBN-13:9780800741648 Publisher:Baker Publishing Group Publication date:11/05/2024 Series:Pearl River , #3 Pages:400

Deputy Jenna Hart has only been working in her sleepy hometown of Pearl Springs for seven months when city officials begin to be targeted by a killer. Twenty years ago, the construction of a dam caused people to lose their land to eminent domain. That wound has not healed with time, and someone bearing a grudge is clearly set on revenge. With the former mayor of Pearl Springs now running for the US Senate, Jenna will have to call in backup to ensure his protection.

That’s where Agent Maxwell Anderson comes in. He and Jenna used to work together in the Chattanooga Police Department, and there was even a smoldering fire of attraction. Now they team up to track down the killer before a big political rally that promises to bring not only the former mayor into the crosshairs but hundreds of civilians as well.

As the sparks of romance reignite and the threads of the investigation get tangled when another suspect comes into play, Jenna and Max will have to draw on all of their skills to stay alive and prevent the wave of disaster poised to hit the community of Pearl Springs. The question is, can either of them fully trust that the other has their back?

My Thoughts

Romantic suspense doesn’t get any better than this book with its second chance at love trope and danger running rampant in the small town of Pearl Springs. When Jenna Hart left Chattanooga under a cloud of suspicion, she found a new place and a new job as a deputy in Pearl Springs, back home where her roots are. But when local men are murdered, her refuge isn’t safe anymore. TBI agent Max Anderson comes to town to protect a Senate candidate and finds out that the threats against him are real, but all is not as it seems. The deceit is in layers in this book and unravels carefully and enticingly. There is a subplot about Jenna’s being endangered by her past and the two plots are woven together seamlessly. I really enjoyed the dynamics between the main characters and the realistic dialogue with the secondary characters. I especially liked the mystery that was gripping and the tension that escalated as danger got closer to Jenna and Max. The story is expertly crafted and addictive. By the end of the first chapter, I was totally engaged in the story and wanted to keep reading to find out what the secrets were and why so many people were involved in keeping it. The author teasingly reveals the details slowly and in a perfect way to keep me engrossed in the plot and the lives of the characters. Perfectly paced and with realistic and unique characters, this book is one not to miss that captivated me as I pieced together the clues right along with the characters.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16th CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”

Rated PG, Christian Fiction with Intense Suspense

About the Author

Patricia Bradley is the author of Counter Attack and Fatal Witness, as well as the Natchez Trace Park Rangers, Memphis Cold Case, and Logan Point series. Bradley is the winner of an Inspirational Reader’s Choice Award, a Selah Award, and a Daphne du Maurier Award; she was a Carol Award finalist; and three of her books were included in anthologies that debuted on the USA Today bestseller list. She makes her home in Mississippi. Learn more at PTBradley.com

Purchase Links:

With a heart filled with gratitude for Revell and their wonderful fiction that takes me away for hours to an imaginary world where I enjoy meeting new characters and trying to solve the mystery!

Selfishness and Conceit

On November 9, 2024November 8, 2024 By vickleaIn Scripture, YouVersion AppLeave a comment

Selfish to Selfless (YouVersion Bible App, Daily Devotional, 11-08-24)

Our default setting is selfishness.

Don’t believe it? Try hanging out with a toddler for a day.

Toddlers want what they want, and they want it now. Toddlers will fight (and sometimes bite) to maintain dominion over their prized possessions. Toddlers have little concern for schedules, agendas, or perfectly white walls.

The good news about toddlers—and people in general—is that they have the capacity to change into selfless people as they grow. But, if toddlers aren’t lovingly redirected and taught how to consider others, that selfishness will continue.

So if we’re naturally self-centered humans, how do we train our minds not to default to selfishness?

The Bible encourages us to model our lives after Jesus…

“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus…”
‭‭Philippians‬ ‭2:3‬-5 ‭NIV‬‬

Jesus didn’t leverage His authority for personal advantage—power, pleasure, control, or comfort—but took on the nature of a servant.

Jesus spent His time investing in others.
Jesus focused His attention on helping others.
Jesus gave up His own life for others.

If you find yourself becoming self-obsessed, self-indulgent, or even a little self-righteous, consider asking God for His help.

Ask Him to help you see people the way He does.
Ask Him to use any knowledge you gain to love Him and serve others.
Ask Him to put opportunities in your path to lead others toward Him.
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The Word of God, the Holy Spirit, and relationships with other believers are what refines our hearts. And with God’s help, we can change our tendency from living selfishly into living selflessly.

My Thoughts

I thought that when the election was over, things would calm down, but apparently, there are some hard feelings in my family over the fact that I would dare to vote for Trump. Anyway, there is a division brewing and I am heartbroken over the harsh words that are being directed towards me. Nevertheless, I feel as if I can continue to value others as friends and family members, in spite of our differences. And I covet your prayers during this hard time. I want to show others that I value their friendship and our relationship and that politics is not the most important thing in my life. God is! And that is why I voted the way I did. I had to choose the candidate who most represented Biblical truths…not perfectly, but better than the one who thinks abortion and transgenderism are values to be touted. Anyway, back to the topic at hand. We could all do to read and heed this verse daily. It reminds me that He is everything and without Him, I am nothing.

In the Realm of “Already”

On November 8, 2024 By vickleaIn prayer, Scripture, YouVersion App2 Comments

Present Your Requests to God (YouVersion Bible App, Max Lucado: “Anxious for Nothing”

In Luke 18:1–8, Jesus told a parable about a persistent widow who went before an unjust judge. The woman so pestered the judge that he finally agreed to her request just to get her to go away. Jesus ended the parable by saying, “Will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night?” (verse 8 NIV).

What are you to make of this parable? Is God a reluctant judge? Are you the marginalized widow? Is prayer a matter of pestering God until he breaks down and gives you what you want? No, this is a parable of contrast, not comparison. God is not like the judge in the story. He is not reluctant in answering the prayers of his people. As a child of the King, you can turn to him at any moment. He never places you on hold or tells you to call again later. God loves the sound of your voice. Always. He doesn’t hide when you call. He hears your prayers.

But why present your requests to him at all? What’s the purpose when he already knows what you are going to ask? Prayer is actually for your benefit. It allows you to act in faith on what you know about his character. When you pray in specific ways—for the particulars of your problems—and you see God respond in specific ways, your faith grows. You come to trust that God will always be there for you, even in the midst of the most anxiety-producing moments.

Prayer is simply a conversation with your heavenly Father. You place your anxieties in his hands and remind him—and yourself—of the promises he has made in his Word. You find a promise that fits your problem and build your prayer around it. These prayers of faith touch the heart of God and activate the angels of heaven. Miracles are set into motion. You experience less consternation; more supplication. Fewer anxious thoughts, more prayer-filled thoughts.

Thanksgiving is the means God uses to help you take the focus off yourself and onto him. Gratitude is a powerful weapon in the arsenal against anxiety because it leads you out of the land “if only” and into the realm of “already.” The anxious heart says, “Lord, if only I had this, that, or the other, I’d be okay.” The grateful heart says, “Lord, you’ve already given me this, that, and the other thing. Thank you for your blessings, God.”

Christ-based contentment will turn you into a strong person. It helps you realize that since no one can take your Christ, no one can take your joy. Failure can’t steal your joy, because Jesus is greater than your sin. Disappointments can’t steal your joy, because even though your plans may not work out, God’s plans always will. Not even death can steal your joy, because Jesus has even conquered death itself.

What you have in Christ is greater than anything you don’t have. You have God, who is crazy about you, and the forces of heaven to monitor and protect you. You have the living presence of Jesus within you. In Christ you have everything. So anchor your heart to the character of God. Treat each anxious thought with a grateful one, and prepare yourself for a new day of joy.

Respond

Do you ever feel like you are pestering God when you pray? How does knowing God is eager to hear from you affect your desire to talk to him?

What attitude do you tend to have when you pray? How would your prayers change if you focused on what God has already done in your life?

What anxious thoughts will you pray for specifically today? How will you remind yourself of God’s faithfulness in the past as you pray specifically for these needs?

My Thoughts

One of the pages that I follow on Facebook is called “Cowboyisms.” Yes, there are horses, cowboys and gorgeous sunsets. But I follow the page because there is a lot of godly wisdom on the graphics the participants post. One such post was this morning, and it said, “You don’t pray to inform God. You pray to involve God.” Isn’t that the truth? God already knows all that we are going through, so we don’t tell Him what is going on in our lives because He needs information. We are telling Him so that we are asking Him to get intimately involved in the circumstances of our life.

I really like what today’s devotional has to say about being in the realm of “already.” When we take time to recognize what God has already done for us, then our faith increases and our doubt flees.

Whenever my husband goes out to run errands, as soon as he comes into the house again, I am eager to share what has happened in the few hours he has been gone. I want to tell him about what I read in the Bible, what I heard from my news blurbs online and any interesting blogs I read that day. I want to tell him about phone calls and prayer requests that I am praying for. You see, he actually wasn’t there when I was going through these events.

But God was…He is always there! So, when I tell Him about my day and the things I am grateful for and the help that I need from Him, He already knows. But as my loving Father, He wants me to set aside time just to talk to Him, to have the relationship with Him that strengthens me for my day. That is what my prayers with God are like. It’s not a sonorous pulpit-like prayer, but rather a conversation with the One who knows me best and loves me most. I don’t want to sound sacrilegious, but I talk to God as I would talk to my husband who just walked into the door and is interested in what has been happening. God, who is always there, wants to know what is on my heart and mind and takes the time to listen. And, I have found, if I will sit quietly, He will also respond with words that I need to hear, mostly from His Word but sometimes timely words of advice just for me in a given situation. Talking to God relieves my anxiety and helps me recall all that He has already done for me.

Do you talk to God daily? I talk to Him all day long…prayer in the morning and then I just keep the conversation going as I seek His wisdom and His input on current issues. He never shuts the door in my face or tells me He’s just too busy to listen right now, that I should come back later. I call His name and I am assured that He is listening and ready to be there for me, whatever I need. If I need to vent because I am angry about something, He listens and calms me down. If I need to cry because I am sad, He listens, without judging that the thing I am upset about is a small thing. I am so thankful that He is always ready to hear me when I call out to Him, He is never impatient with me, and He always has an answer for me. No, the answer may not come right away, but I know, because I know Him, that He is working on solutions that are best for me and others, and the answer will come at just the right time.

The Prayer-Celine Dion and Andrea Bocelli

Contagious Calm

On November 7, 2024 By vickleaIn Scripture, Song, YouVersion AppLeave a comment

Let Your Gentleness Be Evident to All (YouVersion Devotional by Max Lucado: “Anxious for Nothing”)

Unchecked anxiety can unleash an Enola Gay of angry outbursts, rash accusations, and fiery retaliations against those in your path who are unfortunate to be at the wrong place at the wrong time. How many people have been wounded as a result of such unbridled stress? On the other hand, how many disasters have been averted because one person decided to be calm?

It is this composure Paul is referring to when he states, “Let your gentleness be evident to all” (Philippians 4:5 NIV). The Greek word translated as gentlenessdescribes a temperament that is seasoned and mature. It envisions an attitude that is fitting to the occasion, levelheaded and tempered. The gentle reaction is one of steadiness, evenhandedness, and fairness.

Jesus promised that “in this world you will have trouble” (John 16:33 NIV). It is as inevitable as the sun rising on a new day—as waves crashing on the shores of a beach. But what you also need to remember is that Jesus has promised to be with you in the midst of those troubles. Before Jesus departed this earth, he said to his disciples, “Go and make disciples of all nations . . . teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:19–20 NIV).

In fact, throughout the Bible, God repeatedly pledged to be present with his people. He was with Abram as he traveled to a new land. He was with Hagar when she fled into the wilderness, and with Isaac when he was forced to move from place to place. He was with Joshua when he faced the Canaanites, and with David when he faced the Philistines. He was with Peter in prison, and with Paul whenever and wherever he found himself in dire circumstances.

God was never watching from a distance. In fact, his very name is Immanuel, which means “God with us.” He became flesh. He became sin. He defeated the grave. And he is still with you.

Maybe you’re fighting today to keep a family together, a business afloat, or a school from going under. How you handle that fight will reveal where your trust ultimately lies. If you trust in Jesus and believe he is always with you, the byproduct of releasing the control to him will be a contagious calm that surrounds your life. This calm will allow you to see how God is working in your situation—and others will notice there is something different about you. It will bring healing to your anxiety, mature your faith, and show others that God is always faithful.

Anxiety management is like pulling stumps out of the ground. Some of your worries have deep root systems, and extracting them is hard work. But you don’t have to do it alone. Present the challenge to your Father and ask for help.

Will he solve the issue? Yes, he will. Will he solve it immediately? Maybe. Or maybe part of the test is an advanced course in patience. This much is sure: contagious calm will happen to the degree that you turn to him.

Respond

Who in your life is most impacted by the way you respond to stressful situations?

How would you define the word gentleness? Would you say your responses to others in stressful situations tend to be gentle? Why or why not?

How can knowing that God is always present in your circumstances help you to maintain a sense of contagious calm?

My Thoughts

On Election Day, I spent most of the day alone as my husband is a poll watcher. When he came home a little before eight, he was tired, but in a good way, and we talked a little while about what was going on in the election. I had been praying all day for God’s mercy and as the evening wore on and the results were coming slowly, I decided to go ahead and go to bed. I thought that I would not be able to sleep, but in my prayer, I asked God for peace and His response to my heart was, “Trust.” I woke up about three a.m. as my husband was coming to bed. It looked like President Trump would win, but I didn’t trust the Democrats not to pull a switch or find more ballots. My anxiety kicked in again, and again, God spoke to my heart, “Trust.”

I don’t think it’s a coincidence that my word for this year has been trust. I have had to trust God for some hard things, at least hard things for me. I had to drive my husband in heavy traffic back and forth to his appointments for his eye surgery. It sounds easy and normal, but not for me. I have little peripheral vision after my stroke and as a result, I have not driven much for the last ten years. But, God whispered the word “trust” to me and so I just did what I needed to do.

So many times, I have surprised myself and probably others around me with my calm spirit when inwardly I was seething with anxiety. God’s message to me has been the same in every situation, “Just trust.” I have not arrived at the place where I can say that I am not anxious about anything, but I can testify that I am calmer in situations that used to make me so anxious that I would hide from others or explode at them. So, progress, right? God is still working on me, and I am thankful that He never gives up.

Never Give Up-Josh Bates

Review of UNFORGOTTEN by Shelley Shepard Gray

On November 6, 2024 By vickleaIn Book Review3 Comments

About the Book

Product Details

ISBN-13:9780800746032 Publisher:Baker Publishing Group Publication date:11/05/2024 Pages:304

Even though Bethanne Hostetler has found some peace seven years after an attempted assault and the accidental death of Peter Miller, she is still haunted by the memory. When her Englisher cousin, Candace—who has just been crowned Miss Crittenden County—reveals that she has a stalker, all of Bethanne’s old fears come rushing back.

Jay Byler had once been Peter’s best friend, and the fact that he did not protect Bethanne that fateful night has haunted him ever since. To make matters worse, she continues to avoid him—even as he continues to love her. Jay can only hope and pray that one day Bethanne will see the person he is today and not the boy he used to be.

As Candace’s stalker becomes bolder, Officer Ryan Mulany becomes her escort to various events. He knows he should only think of Candace as a job, but the more time they spend together, the harder it gets to maintain professional distance. And when everyone’s worst fears are realized, all four must work together to prevent another tragedy before time runs out and another innocent person is hurt.

My Thoughts

This book tells the story of two cousins who are dealing with relationship issues. Bethanne has a fear of being around people, and she is just coming out of her shell after an assault by her former boyfriend. She is still not totally comfortable in public, but she is getting better. Her cousin Candace competed for and won the Miss Crittenden County Contest. But Candace’s issue is that she has a stalker, so a new deputy named Ryan Milanese appoints himself to be her chaperone and body guard to all of her events. The two cousins are making progress with trusting others when the unthinkable happens. This is an Amish romance with a lot of suspense included in the story. The suspense is compelling and the characters are realistically portrayed and very easy to empathize with. I enjoyed the pace of the story, which I considered moderate until the big conflict. Then, the pace raced at a breakneck speed to the conclusion. The author does a good job of pointing out the differences between Bethanne’s lifestyle and Candace’s since Candace was not raised Amish but Bethanne was. I really enjoyed the way the girls leaned on each other and learned how to accept help from others. The story is engaging, the characters are dynamic and I highly recommend this book for those looking for Amish romantic suspense that is definitely Christian fiction without graphic details.
I received an e-copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own. I also purchased my own copy to add to my collection of books by this author.

Rated PG due to content about a stalker and a previous assault

About the Author

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Shelley Shepard Gray writes Amish and Inspirational romances for Simon & Schuster, and Kensington, Harlequin, and contemporary women’s fiction for Blackstone Publishing. With over a million books in print, and translated into more than a dozen languages, her novels have been Holt Medallion winners and Inspirational Readers Choice and Carol finalists.

Shelley has been featured in the Philadelphia Enquirer, Washington Post, Time Magazine, and USA Today. She has also been interviewed on NPR as well as numerous regional radio stations. Publishers Weeklycalls her Walnut Creek series “A slow-burning, enjoyable romance… Embedded in this quaint story is a poignant message about the importance of community, compassion, and doing what’s right rather than what’s easy.”

Shelley has hosted several well-attended ‘Girlfriend Getaways’ for Amish reading fans. Her most recent Girlfriend Getaway, hosted with bestselling novelists Amy Clipston and Suzanne Woods Fisher in Sugarcreek, Ohio, was filmed by BuzzFeed and highlighted on NetFlix’s Follow Thisepisode on the popularity of Amish fiction.

Before writing romances, Shelley lived in Texas and Colorado, where she taught school and earned her bachelor’s degree in English literature and later obtained her master’s degree in educational administration. She now lives in southern Colorado near her grown children, walks her dachshunds, bakes too much, and writes full time.