Author: vicklea

I love to read! I’m a retired teacher with a spouse of 45 years, three amazing children and nine wonderful grandchildren. I am blessed!

Life is in the Blood

On By vickleaIn Scripture2 Comments

Harry and I found out the hard way yesterday how precious and costly blood is. We had to take our cat Daisy to the Urgent Care Vet because she was lethargic, falling over, and hadn’t eaten or drunk water for two days. We found out that she has a heart murmur, congestive heart failure (just like me) and is severely anemic. They gave her antibiotics for her UTI and told us to give her plenty of protein meals to build up her blood naturally since we cannot afford a transfusion that is recommended. Do you know how much a transfusion for a cat costs? Between $4000-$6000. Yes, you read that right. Why so expensive you may be thinking? Well, the Red Cross, for example collects blood for hospitals and sends out an SOS if they are short of a particular blood type. This blood is for people. There are no blood banks for kitties, so finding blood for them is difficult and costly. I never thought of the cost of blood, did you?

God knew and told us way back in the book of Leviticus that blood is precious. It is what paid atonement on the altar, the blood of animals in Old Testament times.

Then God made a new covenant, but the price of atonement remained the same—blood. The blood of Jesus that frees us from sin and opens the door for a new relationship with the Father. And what did we pay for Jesus’s blood sacrifice? Nothing. Jesus paid it all.

We get to have fellowship with God and with one another because of the price Jesus paid for us. Our responsibility is to confess our sins and repent. Much easier than dying on the cross, right?

Although Harry and I had no idea how much a transfusion for Daisy would cost before yesterday, now we know. It just points out to me how wise and knowledgeable God is since He knew all along. In spite of the cost, He sent His Only Son to shed His blood for us. There is no bill for us to pay, nothing charged against our account because Jesus paid it all.

For those of you curious about Daisy, she is doing better today. She is still very tired from yesterday’s visit and all of the tests, the IV, and just the stress of being at a vet. So she has rested a lot today. I was concerned about her taking her meds since she is “spicy” as the vet says and does not willingly open her mouth for anyone. Doing as the vet suggested, we got the wet cat food that she likes (anything with fish) and I added the liquid medicine and mixed it together this morning. She ate it and then went back to sleep. We are praying that she will be okay, but we both know that she is considered a senior cat at ten plus years, and just like us, she isn’t promised to live forever on the earth. We are grateful for the time we have had with her and pray that she will continue to improve and live a healthy life until she passes away.

One of my favorite photos of Daisy is when she decided to make herself comfortable under our Christmas tree. This photo was taken two years ago, but once we get the tree out again, she will find her favorite spot and settle in to nap.

Power in the Blood-Lydia Walker

Review: The Heartfelt Formula by Leslie K. DeVooght

On By vickleaIn Book Promo, Book Review5 Comments

About the Book

ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1967524075

Publisher ‏ : ‎ Lanier Price Publishing‏

Pages : ‎ 337 pages 

Synopsis (from Amazon)

After another breakup, Atlanta attorney Hope Elliot decides to stop waiting for her happily-ever-after and write it herself. Inspired by her beloved Christmas romance movies, Hope crafts The Heartfelt Formula: a foolproof plan including snowball fights, cookie baking, and a perfectly timed first kiss.

Trading the big city for coastal Georgia, Hope sets out to find her small-town soulmate. But the actors in her carefully plotted scenes keep shuffling—especially when Brennan Taylor, her ambitious co-counsel continues to fill in for Cole Walker, the carefree furniture maker, who Hope cast as her hero.

Between courtroom drama, a mismatched leading man, and a mistletoe mishap, Hope must decide if she’ll trust her formula or accept a plot twist that might leave her all alone, or perhaps, with happiest ending of all.

A faith-filled romantic comedy for anyone who believes love, like Christmas, can still surprise you.

My Thoughts

There is so much to love about The Heartfelt Formula, a sweet romance with a strong foundation of faith and characters that popped off the page right into my heart. I really wanted Hope to succeed in finding her HEA by following the same formula that the movies do. I loved the wit and humor in the book, especially the scenarios that Hope set up just to convince her carefully chosen Mr. Right that they needed to be together. This is a book about overcoming the past, facing a hope-filled future and finding out who you really are and what you should be doing with your life. I loved the way Hope built her relationship with her stepfather and even accepted her mom with all of her adorable quirks. In fact, I loved everything about this book that was packed full of plot, dynamic character development and just plain fun. The author did a spectacular job of writing a compelling and believable story that was easy to read and refreshingly delightful. The romance was fun, flirty and satisfying as well as totally charming. This is a book to read when you need a lift in spirit since I don’t think that anyone who reads this book will leave it with anything but a wide smile and gratitude for the ahhh feeling that comes from this warm-hearted tale of love and laughter.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own.

Christian fiction, Rom-Com, Rated G

About the Author

PW Best-Selling Author Leslie Kirby DeVooght writes women’s fiction inspired by romcoms, coastal Georgia, and fried okra! While Leslie and her family live in Jacksonville, Florida, they often visit her hometown of St. Simons Island, Georgia, where she loves to go for long walks on the beach. A graduate of Florida Southern College and Mercer Law School, Leslie is always revising her life from prosecutor to judge to PTA president to author of happily-ever-afters.

Facebook at Leslie Kirby DeVooght

Twitter @LeslieDeVooght  

Instagram @Leslie.DeVooght.Author

Purchase Links

Amazon

Bookshop

Walmart

Books-a-Million

Barnes and Noble

Ads, Bumper Stickers and Jesus

On By vickleaIn Scripture2 Comments

You are watching a show and timing your bathroom break for when the commercial comes on. Or at least that is how things used to work before we could fast forward through the commercials. But, then, a commercial would come on for a new product that I am interested in and I would stay to watch it and then cross my legs as I waited for the next commercial. What was the draw that would keep me watching? I don’t recall but I do remember watching commercials and then waiting to go to the bathroom.

Another scenario is that you are driving down the road and see a car with a bumper sticker that makes you look twice to see if you read it right the first time. Then you might think I that would be a good one for you to have. Here are some examples of those.

So, what is my point with this blog? It is that Jesus doesn’t have a marketing department like the commercials on TV or a cutesy saying like the bumper stickers that get your attention. What He has is us to tell others about Him. To get other people to stop and think about their eternal destination. What are words that we use when we share about Jesus? After all, we probably only have a few minutes to share something that could make a difference for the rest of their lives. (Note that they may stay and listen longer but probably not. In my experience, once I mention God, they try to change the subject or turn away from me.) Anyway, that is why it is important to stay prayed up and ready to share, at all times and for all reasons. A Bible is not always going to be in your hand for you to grab it and read from it. So, be prepared to share by having the Word in your heart. Sharing your testimony is a good start if you have time to do that before they walk away. I have been thinking of what I would say that would be short and to the point. Something like: “I don’t fear death because God promised me a beautiful tomorrow.” You get the idea, right? I am just saying what the Bible tells us, to always be ready to share. We aren’t a commercial with an obnoxious salesman, flashing lights and a catchy song. We aren’t a bumper sticker that makes people want to get one like that. We are the ambassadors of the King of the Universe, so we should always be ready to attract others to Jesus so that they want to know more, to maybe sit with us and discuss it or to take another look at what Christianity really means.

Remain Faithful

On By vickleaIn Scripture2 Comments

Remembered by God (Daily Refresh, 10-20-26)

People may forget your good deeds, but God never will.

Maybe they never said thank you. 
Maybe they never publicly honored your service. 
Maybe they never remember what you did… 

People may forget our good deeds, but God never will.

Sometimes, we may wonder if our good deeds matter or will ever be acknowledged. Hebrews 6:10 reassures us that the God who blesses a faithful life will never forget our acts of kindness and service.

Think of it this way: God has a perfect memory, and He sees, knows, and remembers every act of obedience done in His name—even if the world labels it a failure or considers you a fool. Your just and faithful God is taking note, and He will reward you. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

“God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.”
Hebrews 6:10 NIV

So, when you’re tempted to think your efforts go unnoticed or unappreciated. When you feel forgotten or overlooked. When you’re tempted to think that what you contribute doesn’t matter, remember and hold on to the promise of Hebrews 6:10. Because God won’t forget your kindness, your faithfulness, and your service. 

People may forget your good deeds, but God—He never will.

My Thoughts

I am remembering the ten lepers who were healed and only one came back to thank the Lord Jesus. Did Jesus throw in the towel and say that He was done healing and ministering to people? No, of course not! He set the example for us to continue to be faithful. We may never get recognition on this side of heaven, but we can rest assured that God is watching and remembers all that we do, even the most insignificant acts of kindness or love. Whatever we do as Jesus’s faithful followers, God will recall and there will be a reward one day. But, you know what? Even if there were no future reward, crowns or otherwise, we should continue to be faithful. God always is and we should always pursue excellence in our walk with Him. He doesn’t turn away from us, nor should we turn away from others who need an act of kindness just to keep going. Sometimes the kindness we show may be the only kind act that they will ever see. You just never know. In our faithfulness, we are showing that we notice, we see, we care and we want to help others just as Jesus helps us through each day. Sometimes being faithful requires a bigger sacrifice than at other times. Sometimes, the sacrifice is financial, other times it is your time or your energy. Whatever is required, just keep in mind that Jesus gave all that we might give some to others. How much is a soul worth? One leper returned and received eternal life from the Savior who healed Him. Don’t wait for thanks here on earth; just listen for the approving voice and never-ending smile of the Father who is always watching.

Seeing God in Creation

On By vickleaIn Scripture1 Comment

I receive various newsletters from participants on Substack and one of them is M. Wiley Wilson. Today I am sharing one of his posts that really spoke to me because I am housebound most of the time. Walking anywhere is difficult for me, especially on uneven ground in the yard. So it is important to be to have windows nearby to see the wonder of God’s world, or at least a small glimpse of it. I hope that you enjoy this post. Please let me know what you think.

Michael Wilson. Substack Creation

It’s Sunday!

On By vickleaIn Scripture2 Comments

A reminder to rest. Don’t let Sunday become your day for chores or errands. Remember that your mind, body and spirit need to rest.

A blessing for you from God’s Word:

And a prayer for you to carry throughout the day:

Have a blessed, peaceful and joy-filled Sunday!

The Blind Can See

On By vickleaIn Scripture2 Comments

When Jesus walked the earth and began his ministry here, one of the things that He did that showed people His power was to heal the blind.

Those who were healed believed in His power to heal even though many did not know that He was the Son of God. They accepted that He must get His power from Heaven because who else could bring sight to the blind?

Jesus was speaking to the religious leaders when He said this. They were not blind physically but spiritually. They arrogantly thought that they had all of the answers and Jesus in this one statement shows them how ignorant they actually are. Of course, these same leaders were part of the crowd who plotted against Jesus since they didn’t like being “called out” like that even though it was truth.

There are many today who are blind because of illnesses or defects or diseases. My sister has macular degeneration and has lost much of her eyesight. I pray for her to keep her sight as long as possible, but more than that, I pray for her spiritual eyes to be opened. She asks me to pray for her when things are going wrong for her, but she also claims not to believe in God, heaven or hell. Her spiritual eyes have been blinded, much like the Pharisees who ridiculed Jesus.

How many people in your life are spiritually blind? Before you can reach them with the gospel message, there needs to be a falling away of the scales from their spiritual eyes. God needs to prepare their hearts to hear and receive, and I think that comes with prayer. Does that mean that this is an impossible task? God says nothing is impossible with Him. So, I continue to pray for those who are blinded that they may see the truth. It is only when we realize that we are blind that we want help and that is how they are, too. They are so blinded that they don’t realize it and thus they remain in their sin. As believers, it is up to us not just to share the good news but also to pray that the hearts of the people with whom we share will be prepared to hear, understand and accept the truth. The blind can see, but we are the only ones who can help them to do so.

Near to God

On By vickleaIn Scripture5 Comments

On more than one occasion I have had friends and people I barely know ask me how I am still standing and able to praise God after all the challenges life has thrown at me. That generally brings to mind Job’s wife who counseled him with the unwise words to just curse God and die. (Job 2:9) Instead of turning away from God, my challenges have pushed me closer to Him. There is no place I would rather be when the doctors give me more “bad news” than pressing into God so that I know that He knows exactly how I am feeling and that I need Him.

I am not special, but like many of you, I am a walking testimony to God’s grace. I was born again in my 20’s, also got married a few months later and began my adventure of military moves. God was with me in each new place. I shared in yesterday’s post about not liking change. Twenty-five military moves with different bases and different houses didn’t change my mind on that but rather cemented it. Nevertheless, God provided jobs when I needed one, new friends in each new place and always a church to keep me centered. I was born with asthma and until the pregnancy with my third child, I had not suffered any symptoms since before my college days. With Steven, I was hospitalized several times because of extreme asthma episodes. But God brought me through and then we moved to Maine. I stayed sick a lot there, with pneumonia. I should say that my mother died shortly before we moved to Maine and that emotional stress didn’t help. Again, God comforted and helped me each time I was hospitalized. Fast forward to 2015 when I had a stroke. Again, God was right beside me as I struggled to talk (I could only stammer) and as I went through rehab to learn how to walk again. I’m not going to lie. It was hard but I literally felt God’s presence and His Spirit telling me that I could do it, whatever I needed to do. Three months after my stroke I was miraculously back in my classroom part time and ended the year as a full-time teacher again.

Life isn’t easy for anyone. The road has bumps, unexpected twists and some curves that come up fast with no warning. But God is in the driver’s seat and I have the attitude that I am along for the ride so I may as well trust Him and enjoy the ride. I am here today to declare that God saves, heals and uses wounded people who are not perfect. I am one of those and I am blessed to know that as I draw near to God, He draws near to me. Together, we make a formidable team and I bless His Name that I am still here to write this blog and tell you about His love, mercy and grace.

What has God done for you? Have you pressed in closer to Him as the days get more challenging? I have found that the way to be a survivor is to trust in God. He knows the past, the present and the future and He hasn’t changed His plan for your life. All He does is for our good always in all ways.

New Things

On By vickleaIn Scripture, Song, Video4 Comments

I am going to admit that I do not like change, of any kind. I don’t like it when a favorite outfit wears out and I have to discard it. I don’t like it when my husband moves things around in the interest of “organization” and I can’t find them. I don’t like when my doctor I have been seeing for twenty years retires and I have to find a new specialist. I just don’t like new. But God does…so there is that.

God creates new things from nothing. So when He says He is doing a new thing, it isn’t taking something old and re-purposing it. It is all brand new.

God creates and I am likely the one standing there saying, “Yes, that’s very nice, but I liked the old thing better.” I know that you are probably gasping at my boldness right now, but God already knows what I am thinking and how I feel so saying it out loud isn’t going to surprise Him. He has been working on me lately to get me to accept new things, new people in my life, a new arrangement of furniture so I can get around with my walker, and even a few new-to-me foods. But I must say that on the last one, it has to really smell and look good to get me to even try it. I am not a “Daniel Boone” kind of person willing to blaze whatever trail is needed. I am the kind of person who likes the trail already laid out with a map or GPS telling me all of the stops and places along the way that might delay my travel. God doesn’t give us a map of our lives and tell us to just follow it and we will be fine. God likes to do new things because He knows that some new things are good for us, others stretch us, others test us and in the end, they all grow us.

We may think that we have everything all figured out and then God shows us that we definitely don’t. God works within us to accomplish His goals for us and if that means changing, then that is what He works on. Again, that word I don’t like…change. With my health issues, there have been a lot of changes this last year. I have to plan trips around my medication schedule so that I am not asking my husband for a bathroom break every half hour or so when we are on the road. I had to change my Sunday school class because the building for the couple one doesn’t have a bathroom that I can use except down some very treacherous and steep stairs. I am not traveling to see grandchildren as much as I would like because I just don’t feel well, and then, of course, there are always medical appointments that intervene. I didn’t get to see my sister for her birthday this year because I had just been diagnosed with the whole heart issue and the doctor didn’t want me to travel. Road bumps are a part of life, but I am discovering that some of those bumps are part of God’s plan for me and He already knew that they were coming. I am the only one surprised by them. But God’s word says He can do “infinitely MORE than we might ask or think.” We are finite people with a finite mind, but God is not. Thus trust enters the picture and we know that He is working and doing more, more than we thought possible, more than we can even ever imagine. Who knew that I would make new friends in the new class? God knew. Who knew that the new nephrologist would be so on top of things that he calls to make sure I show up for extra labs when my numbers go up? God knew. Who knew that not visiting my sister meant that the doctor would relent and give me permission to go to our granddaughter’s wedding, even helping me with the med schedule I would need to follow to make the long trip? God knew. So, am I resting in this new world of change and adjustment? No, but I am getting better at the whole “wait and see” thing. I am more willing to wait and see what God will do to work things out in a new and creative way.

And isn’t it just like God to remind me this morning that God is preparing things for me and I cannot even imagine the new things He has waiting for me.