Women at the Well Ministries

Featured Guest Author

2014-09-18T12:59:00.003-07:00

So exciting! Today, as I write this, I am the featured guest author on a blog. This is my first time being a guest on a blog. It's interesting, because I don't have to physically be there. However, at the same time the interaction is quite different. I only interact with someone when they comment.

As of yet, there are no comments, so it is hard to tell if anyone stops by. I've put the info out there, as much as I am visible on the internet. I don't have a lot of followers on Twitter, yet (less than 200). I don't have a lot of followers anywhere. I do have just about 500 friends on Facebook, but we all know how that can go. We don't connect with all of them whenever we post something, depending on the settings.

I'll let you know how it went, after day's end. Bye for now.

Oh, don't forget! God loves you!

Angela D Meyer

Signs and Symptoms of Mental Illness

2014-09-16T14:20:00.001-07:00

A new page has been added. We all know there needs to be more education in the area of mental illness in the church. Maybe you have mental illness. Maybe you are not sure. Perhaps your family member, or friend, has certain behavior patterns that you are concerned about. There are warning signs to let us know that maybe something serious is wrong. Go to the new page, Signs and Symptoms of Mental Illness, to learn what they are.

Too often we have heard, "If only I had known." You can know. Is it fail proof - no, but you can still arm yourself with information on what to look for. Be prepared.

Whenever you have questions, first go to the Greatest Answer Man ever, the Lord Jesus Christ. Pray, and ask the Lord what avenue should you take in seeking help either for yourself, a family member, or for someone else. Always remember, though, if there is danger involved, you already know the Lord wants you to take immediate action. We can quickly throw up prayers with just a groan, if necessary. The Spirit discerns and knows what you want. He also knows what's the best action to take. Listen and then act!

In my brokenness, before God miraculously healed me in the state mental hospital, I suffered with Borderline Personality Disorder. This video captures the thoughts at that time.

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) and My Christian Faith
or copy and paste this link
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dkS0ZaQGlWg

Signs and Symptoms of Mental Illness
or copy and paste this link
http://www.nami.org/Template.cfm?Section=By_Illness

Be blessed

Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.

Romans 8:26

Enjoy The New Look

2014-09-02T14:42:00.002-07:00

Well, I finally did it. I updated my blog. I don't know my way around creating, etc. when it comes to making blogs and websites pretty. It probably takes me 5 times as long to create than someone who may know what they are doing. I tell you what, though. I sure had a lot of fun, but now I am very tired. It's nearly 1 a.m. and I'm pooped.

I intend to make many changes. One being I intend to post more regularly now that I have my first book, "The Woman at the Well...today" published, and Sunday evening I sent in my manuscript for "The Woman at the Well...today" Bible study. For more info on the Bible study, head on over to my facebook page Women at the Well Bible study. While you're there check out my other facebook Women at the Well Ministries. I guess since you're running around checking out well's, you may as well check out my website. I'm still working on that too. So I appreciate your patience there, as well. (My, I sure use that word [well] a lot.

Look for more changes and additions. Uh, that is as soon as I figure out how to add them.

Blessings to you all, or ya'll, if I was still in Texas.

Hello, I'm Back

2014-08-02T17:32:00.001-07:00

Since my book, "The Woman at the Well...today", was published, I knew I had to work on marketing it. I didn't realize how much work that would be, and how much time each day it would take. I am not complaining, because it is an amazing experience. However, I don't move as fast as I used to, nor do I move as quickly from one thing to the next. I say this to say it is taking time to adjust to posting on all the groups on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Pinterest. It's good that when I post many places it automatically posts on Twitter. That's a time saver. Now, is there a "click here" to post one place that will go to all of the social networks?

I appreciate you if you are a marketing expert. You have valuable information. It also takes a lot of energy. This is something I ask the Lord for daily. There are lunch breaks I delay, and dinner breaks I delay in taking. Too often I have been eating dinner (if one can call it that) too late in the evening. Hence, I'm staying up late because it's hard to fall asleep on a full stomach. That's another point. Discipline is lacking in that area as well.

Whew! I need a boost of energy that I had at 20, 30, 40; even 50 years old. Ah, I'm giving away a bit of age info here. That's okay. I am proud of my age, because the Lord has kept me alive to tell my story. He is the One holding me together in more ways than one.

All this said, I am excited beyond words, as to what God Almighty is doing in my life at this time. These are the best years of my life. I am with my son and his family in the most perfect setting I could ask. My granddaughters are absolutely the doting babies I could ever want and need. God truly is blessing me beyond belief. Then it is believable, because He is a God who keeps His promises. He has been so faithful, loving and patient with me all these years. Yes, He's been tough with me, but it certainly was necessary. He is the perfect Teacher who truly knows what's best for His child.

Walking in the wilderness all those years was horrendous. There were times when God had to supernaturally keep me alive. Either the enemy tried to take my life, or I tried to take my own life. Either way, it was something the enemy instigated. But God is greater in me than the enemy, who is in the world. No one is greater and larger than Jehovah. Talk about someone having my back. God always did and does have my back. He went before me to make sure the road was paved as He intended. He stayed beside me to guide me. Since I have no peripheral vision, He needed to hold my arm so I would not crash into the wall. Well, actually there were a few times I did crash into that brick wall, but He was there to make sure I continued breathing because the crash was terrific.

He walked behind me to limit the attacks of the enemy behind my back. Yes, He allowed attacks from the enemy, but they were closely monitored by Jehovah Jireh. He was always there is administer His healing balm of Gilead so that I would not perish.

Yes, you see, the God of my salvation is perfect! He breathed air into my lungs when it looked liked there was no more air. He took the heart that was so broken that it looked like sawdust, and He re-molded it. As a matter of fact, He put it back together again better than it was before. And my mind. Well, let me tell you. There was so much confusion there that it looked like the chaos of the world at the beginning of time. You know where it says in the Bible that the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was on the face of the deep? Well, that's probably what the chaos in my mind looked like; without form, void and dark. But just like at that time, the Spirit of God was hovering over Barbara. He said, "Let there be light", and His Light healed my mind, my heart, and my spirit.

He's such a Good God. I want to shout from the rooftops of the goodness of the Almighty God I serve. Won't you join me?

Be blessed by Him today,
Barbara

The Woman at the Well...today

Second Leg of My Journey

2014-04-28T17:16:00.000-07:00

Now that The Woman at the Well...today is published, I have the dubious task of marketing it. Even though it is available on my publisher's bookstore, Xulon Press, Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and Apple iBooks, I still must get it out there to you, the public. I have great resources through LinkedIn writers who give great suggestions.

I really thought book signings were for famous people, but the more I read about them, it seems every author should have at least one. That's a scary thought for me. It's scary when we have to step out in faith, not knowing what to expect, right? But the Lord will show me every step, and hold my hand when necessary. He's like that, you know. And as He takes our hand, we know that whatever happens, we will be okay.

First, I need to go to Barnes and Noble and see if they will let me hold one at their store. After they give me the go ahead (faith applied here), I'll know the next step.

Second, I need to finish ordering new business cards and announcements for the publishing of the book.

Third, I need to have invitations (in the form of flyers) printed to pass/send out to the world.

I don't know what the step is after that. Oh, the invitations will have the date, time and place of book signing, so I'll need to confirm that with, hopefully, Barnes and Noble before I print invitations.

Just like I know He's holding my hand now, as my website page is 'down.' Arrrgh!

If there are any authors reading this blog, please...feel free to contact me and give me pointers on marketing.

The Book is Finally Finished

2014-04-15T17:35:00.001-07:00

A long time in the making! God's story how He healed me from a life plagued with shame, guilt and tremendous heartbreak is finally here. Now it's been nearly 18 years since I heard the still small voice telling me to put in a book how nothing is impossible with God. I procrastinated to the point I thought He might tell me never mind, He doesn't want me to write the book any more. Worse, I thought He would take me home before I would finish it.

It was about 3 years ago that I realized certain things still had to take place before we (God and me) could finish the book. I didn't want to bring any more shame or guilt to my mother and brother than I had already brought in their lives, and I didn't want more grief either. Mother passed in 2008 and Johnne, my brother, passed in 2005. It still took me a few years to realize that now (2008) is the time to finish the book.

I struggled another 2 years. I bought the lie from the devil that God would take me home when I finished the book. Again, I procrastinated, not wanting to die upon the completion of the book. There was another factor involved in this mix. God had halted my other ministry activities. Doors were closing right and left.

But here's the neat part. We (Christians) are called the Body of Christ for a reason. If the foot hurts, get a crutch or hop on one foot, while holding onto someone. If a sister is struggling, help her in her struggles. You get the picture. Right? I thought He was taking away Women at the Well Bible Study, too. If that happened, where would I be? Surely, I was created to teach the study and train other women to teach as well. Well, I talked to a precious sister in the Lord who simply told me that my identity was not in the Women at the Well Bible Study. Are you saying, "And...?"

For someone who thought God would never use her, I never dreamed that He could or would use me in more than one way. She reminded me that we serve a very multi-tasked oriented God.

I'm thrilled, excited and beside myself to have finished this painful journey. Don't get me wrong. I would take this journey repeatedly, knowing the relationship I have with Christ. To know there is life after this life is one thing. To know that the life after this one will be spent in eternity with the King of kings, and Lord of lords, is beyond my understanding. I get to spend forever with GOD!!

Won't you join me? Take the journey I took by reading God's story of my life...

"The Woman at the Well...today"

You can find the book at these fine locations:

Xulon Press Bookstore

Amazon Books

Barnes and Noble

Also on Apple iTunes Stores, under Books.

Do me a favor, please. If there is a link to this, would you let me know? I'm not that savvy when it comes to Apple things. Thanks.

Blessings,

Barbara

Is This The Final Editing?

2014-03-20T21:48:00.001-07:00

It is officially Spring. Living in southern California it feels like Spring has been upon us for several months. We never really had Autumn, Fall or Winter. The weather has been moderate to warm, even between December-February. Where else can you wear shorts at Christmas, go snow boarding, ride in the desert, and go to the beach, all in the same day? Well, maybe a pretty long day, but you get the point. A few days ago we saw snow on the very top of the mountains, while experiencing 80 degree weather.
On a different note:
The final editing of my book is complete (I think). I've sent it back to the publisher's with the latest changes. This is such an exciting process. I recommend it to everyone. If God has revealed to you to write your story, or write about something else, don't hesitate any longer. You won't be completely at peace until you do what the Master has asked of you. You will always feel something is left undone. That's not a place He wants you to reside.
I don't know all that He has for me, but I can hardly wait to find out. I have longed to shout from the rooftops of His great love for you and me. God never disappoints, nor leaves us. He is always faithful, and always wants the best for us. Never before have I experienced the love of someone who wants only the best for me. Not until I met Jesus!

Sticks and Stones...

2014-03-13T22:48:00.003-07:00

Sticks and stones may break my bones, and names can hurt me too.Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice. And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God in Christ forgave you.

Ephesians 4:29-32

You've heard it said that sticks and stones may break my bones, but names will never hurt me.

Just as those sticks and stones thrown at us can bruise and injure the body, harsh words and names hurled at us can break hearts and destroy relationships. I speak from experience as well as scripturally. I'm sure many of you can also speak from experience. Being direct is one thing, but when it drives people away, we need to access our "directness", or "honesty" as some may call it.

Many are not willing to tell you when you are offensive. They don't want to become the latest victim of the offender's sharp tongue. Words laced in grace accomplish more.

Do you talk more than you listen? Do you impatiently wait for another to stop talking so you can give your opinion? These have a higher probability of indiscreet speech. We may be guilty of tearing down instead of building up, if these exist. If we are angry or dissatisfied, we may communicate insensitive words. Oh how wise it is if we ask a trusted friend if the way we speak helpful or harmful.

If you are led by the Holy Spirit to correct someone in this area, please remember to place a caring arm around a friend's shoulder before you confront him or her with specific concerns. Like Jesus, look redemption in the conversation. Follow the Holy Spirit’s lead in leading others to understand their need to change. Don't get in the way of the work of the Spirit working in their heart though. Prayerfully wait to bring up sensitive matters when their heart is most open to truth.

Pleasant words are like a honeycomb, Sweetness to the soul and health to the bones.

Proverbs 16:24

Don't Give Up and Don't Give In

2014-02-22T21:54:00.002-08:00

I can hardly wait until my book comes out. Spring cannot come quick enough. I wrote my story because I want to shout from the rooftops how big and awesome God is; to tell you not to give up hope. If you have faith as tiny as a mustard seed, God will show up and show off for you. I wrote my story to show you that God loves the unlovable, unwanted, and underserved. Yes, we're all deserving of hell, but our merciful God has given us life abundantly.

God loves you! He will never quit on you.

In ministering to hurting women for nearly 30 years, I have seen just as many who are hurting in the church as there are outside of the church. In most cases, you would never guess what is going on inside these women. When you ask how they are doing, they smile and say, “Fine” or that familiar, “Praise the Lord.”

As believers, Jesus said we are in the world but we are not of this world (John 17:11-17). He said in the world we will have tribulation (John 16:33). So why are we surprised when we go through trials? As Christians, we have the supernatural power of the Holy Spirit to carry us through the trials. Jesus never said we would be without trials. These trials are to strengthen us and draw us closer to Him. They strengthen us when we trust in Him whatever the outcome of the trial. They strengthen us because we know no matter what, He will never leave us nor forsake us.

Are you paralyzed by past hurts, ‘stuck’ in growth towards a more personal, and intimate relationship with Jesus? Are you fearful to seek help? Do you fear others will see you as a weak or bad Christian? Unfortunately, many churches push these serious struggles aside as one not having enough faith, having some unconfessed sin or to seek help is ‘unspiritual.’

Christian women are plagued in epidemic proportions with these types of painful experiences: Abortion, adultery, betrayal, chronic illness, divorce, emotional abuse, grief, incest, loss, the Occult, physical abuse, rape, rejection, sexual abuse, and witchcraft.

It is particularly hurtful when other Christians turn their backs when the results of these painful experiences lead to any of the following: Alcohol/drug addiction, anger/rage, bitterness, depression, eating disorders, guilt, mental/emotional illness, panic attacks, shame, suicidal thoughts/attempts, and unforgiveness.

Can you identify with any of the above?

Do you ask yourself, “How could I be a Christian and do the things I do?”

The Lord has not forsaken you. He has not forgotten about you or your circumstances. Has it been a while since you have experienced His goodness, mercy, grace, or love? As long as you have breath, there is hope. God is in the business of giving second, third, fourth and even fifth chances. Do you need more? Hold on to the cross tightly. Don't let the enemy pull you away. You are an overcomer!

I've Finished Writing My Testimony

2014-01-25T03:49:00.000-08:00

I've finished my first book, "The Woman at the Well...Today." It is a story how God healed me from mental/emotional illness while in the state mental hospital. He delivered me from the chains of alcohol/drug abuse, depression, anxiety, and much more. The book is in the editing process, and should be ready for production in the Spring, 2014.

If you want to read an excerpt of the book, go to my website and click on the tab Woman at the Well Today, at the top of the page. Enjoy and let me know what you think.

Women at the Well

For Such A Time As This

2012-08-20T18:14:00.000-07:00

I was reading in the book of Esther this morning and was reminded how there are many seasons in our life. Who knew, but God at that time, that Esther was made queen for such a time as to save her people, the Jews.

Has God led you to a place where you need to make a fresh start? I certainly have been. I'm not 100% sure of what or where that is yet, but, like Esther, I won't completely be sure until I take a step of faith and continue in the path I see ahead.

"For if you remain completely silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father's house will perish. Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" Esther 4:14

"But I don't like fresh starts", you say. Neither do I, especially as I get older.

Maybe you're in the place where God is showing you it's time for a fresh start. Maybe He's showing you it's time to give up that addiction, step out of that relationship, check your finances, or move toward that lost dream. It could be starting your own business, or writing a book (or in my case, finishing the book He told you to write years ago). The important thing is to start right now, where you are, if that's what God is telling you. There's nothing wrong with new beginnings, especially when God directs them.

"Go, gather all the Jews who are present in Shushan, and fast for me; neither eat nor drink for three days, night or day. My maids and I will fast likewise. And so I will go to the king, which is against the law; and if I perish, I perish!" Esther 4:16

Esther was not afraid to perish, if that's what it would take to follow God. Is He telling you to get up and get on with your dream, your vision, your assignment, or your life? Do what you need to do. It may not be easy. It might take some time. But trust God and go for whatever it is. For how else would you know that it is for such a time as this?

Blessings,
Barbara

Christian, Wake Up

2012-08-20T15:15:00.000-07:00

Christians in America are being deceived because we don't know our Bible. If you claim to be a Christian, you will want to know what's happening. Do you r-e-a-l-l-y want to know the truth? Do you r-e-a-l-l-y want to follow Christ by loving the things He loves, and hating the things He hates?

This movie ("2016") is out and I didn't know it. Do you know about this movie, Christian? I bet there are a number of people who don't know about this movie. Gotta go see it. I learned about it from my pastor in his message this past Sunday. Take a look at the trailer:

2016: Obama's America | Official Movie Site

Now that you've taken a look at the trailer for "2016" take a look and also listen to the message of my pastor, Jack Hibbs, Calvary Chapel Chino Hills, message from Sunday, August 19, 2012, titled "What's Really Happening In The Middle East - Get Ready Series # 22:"

WATCH NOW

The Bumpy Road of a Broken Heart

2012-06-15T11:23:00.001-07:00

The LORD is near to those who have a broken heart, And saves such as have a contrite spirit. Psalm 34:18

A broken and contrite spirit is what God wants in order to have an intimate relationship with Him. Take heart in your broken condition. Rejoice because in it brings opportunity for intimacy.

that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death, Philippians 3:10

We pray Philippians 3:10 often. These prayers are not in vain. Your brokenness is answered prayer. The answer may not be exactly what you expected. You may have hoped for smoother paths, free of bumps or pot holes. The path of a personal and intimate relationship with Christ is not always easy, but it is always best when ordained by God.

It is much easier to talk about an intimate relationship with Christ than to have to experience brokenness. When you are broken you invite God to come in and cleanse your life. Remember, we worship God on His terms, not ours. It's only when you surrender in total desperation and total dependency that you experience authentic intimacy.

Trials and brokenness are meant to allow you to grow closer to others, as well. A crisis will either drive you further away from someone or draw you closer to someone. God’s best is to make you relationally stronger with one another during a season of brokenness. This process is ongoing on the part of the committed Christian’s life. Embrace it rather than rejecting it. If you fight brokenness, you delay God’s best.

Trust God and get to know Him at this deeper level of intimacy. You are much better broken because brokenness leads to intimacy with God.

Blessings,
Barbara

Taken from June 8th reading in the 365-day devotional book, “Seeking Daily the Heart of God”… http://bit.ly/bQHNIE

Is God a Bigot and Homophobic?

2012-06-13T14:13:00.001-07:00

When God's Word says homosexuality is a sin (Genesis 19:4-7; Leviticus 18:22-28; Judges 19:22; 1Corinthians 6:9; 1Timothy 1:10; Romans 1:26, 27 and Jude 1:7, 10), and Christians repeat God's Word, we are called bigots and homophobes. Does that mean God is a bigot and homophobic too since He's the one we quote? If God calls it a sin, and not something one is born with, should I not also call it a sin? That means it is a lifestyle that can be changed!! We don't just pick on homosexuality as a sin to hate. We are to hate all sins, as God does.

Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. Galatians 5:19-22

Am I being a bigot against the drunkard, murderer or adulteress? Why is it so difficult to understand that the Bible teaches we are to hate the sin (because God does), but love the sinner. I was a drunk, sexually immoral, an adulteress, fornicator, idolatrous, contentious, and much more. God hated what I did, but He still loved me.

But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8

"For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. And this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For everyone practicing evil hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed." John 3:17-20

He came to die and save all of us from sin. We are called bigots and homophobes because homosexuals are making their sin about rights and not morality. Okay, we all have a right to sin. Homosexuals have a right to be gay, drunks have a right to be drunkards, pedophiles have a right to molest children. Then guess what...

All sinners have a right to condemn themselves to hell

whether they believe in hell or not

Makes no difference. Because you don't believe in all of the Bible, hell, God, or that Jesus is God, doesn't mean it's not true. Wow, if the Bible is all true, the people who don't believe in it sure have a lot to lose!!! And for argument sake, if it isn't true...what do I lose, since I believe it all??

All that said, that's why I believe California Senate Bill 48 (below) is straight from the pit of hell, and though the Lord may seem to tarry now...

"For the vision is yet for an appointed time; But at the end it will speak, and it will not lie. Though it tarries, wait for it; Because it will surely come, It will not tarry. Behold the proud, His soul is not upright in him; But the just shall live by his faith." Habakkuk 2:3-4

If you have school-age children in California public schools, or know someone who does, you MUST read this bill. Is this something you want in the CA public school?

Bill Text: CA Senate Bill 48 - 2011-2012 Session | LegiScan

He who testifies to these things says, "Surely I am coming quickly." Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus! The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen." Revelation 22:20

2012-05-25T15:10:00.000-07:00

Practical Biblical Applications

Philippians 4:6-7

Matthew 6:25, 31 NKJV 25 Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? 31Therefore do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?'

We often look at these verses thinking we are not to be anxious about our food, drink and clothing. But don’t overlook the first part of verse 25…”do not worry about your life.” In other words don’t be overly concerned about your very breath. God is in control of our every breath as well as our food, drink and clothing. As much as possible, be concerned about the foods you eat and drink, and wearing clean clothes. But what about the other parts of the life? Are you concerned about these things or do they plague your life with worry and fret?

God knows that you have needs – and He cares

He knows that you have problems – and He has solutions

He knows that you feel defeated – and He holds the keys to victor

Philippians 4:6-8 NKJV 6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

The first thing we see in verse 6 is something we find impossible to do…not to be anxious! But hold on. God is not going to leave us hanging by giving us a command without giving us a way to accomplish it.

The Greek word for anxious is merimnaw, merimnao, mer-im-nah'-o. First, let’s take a look at this word. Look at the many different dictionary definitions of anxiety/anxious/anxiousness:

· Worried because something bad might happen.

· Wanting something, especially when this makes you nervous, excited, or impatient.

· Concern respecting something future or uncertain which disturbs the mind and keeps it in a state of painful uneasiness.

· Feeling of worry–worry implies persistent doubt; uneasiness; nervousness or agitation (often about something that is going to happen). Fear that produces strong mental agitation.

False

Evidence

Appearing

Real

· Strong wish to do something (especially if the wish is unnecessarily or unhealthily strong).

· Extreme apprehension.

· Strained about some uncertain event or matter.

· A state of restlessness and agitation, often with general reluctance or unwillingness to do something.

· Feelings of fear and concern detached from objective sources.

· Mental oppression of varying degree arising from heavy responsibilities.

**Anxiousness is a mental tension that is found in

most forms of mental disorder**

While concern/care has more to do with:

· That which affects the welfare or happiness; interest; moment.

· Serious thought rather than with emotion (how many times are you led by your emotions rather than thinking something through?).

Let’s take a look at the spiritual implications of worry and anxiety:

· The fruit of the Spirit is choked - love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).

· When fruit is choked it does not ripen

· It remains small– growth is stunted

· It hardens

· It becomes sour

· Spiritual unripe fruit is distracting – we lose focus on God

Next we see verse 6 describes our communion with God. Prayer is not a monologue (one-way conversation); it is a dialogue (two-way conversation). It is important to wait for God to speak to our heart after we’ve lifted up our prayers and petitions…don’t forget about thanksgiving. I must listen for Him to speak, laying my heart out before Him, waiting on Him, worshipping Him, and loving Him. These are all part of prayer. But I’ve got to know His voice to hear and heed it. I’ve got to be in His Word consistently to know Him and what to expect from Him, and to know what He expects from me. How do you make a best friend? Spend time with them.

· Request is WORSHIP and an act of asking for something in a polite or formal way.

Prayer and supplication are similar, but distinct.

· Prayer is a broader word that can mean all of our communication - a general sense, the act of asking for a favor, and particularly with earnestness.

· Supplication directly asks God to do something. Supplication is a humble and sincere appeal to God to grant a request. To entreat for.

…let your request be made known… Doesn’t God already know our requests before we pray them? Of course He does; yet He will often wait for our participation through prayer before granting our request.

…with thanksgiving… This cautions against a whining, complaining spirit before God when we let our requests be made known. We really can be anxious for nothing, pray about everything, and be thankful for anything.

When we come to the Lord to seek communion there is an order that Paul shows us:

· Don’t be anxious

· Communicate with God

· Be direct with humility and sincerity

· Be thankful

· Let God know what you want

And the results…

Philippians 4:7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

The Bible describes three great aspects of peace that relates to God. The one mentioned here is the peace that is beyond our power of thinking.

Peace from God: Paul continually used this as an introduction to his letters; it reminds us that our peace comes to us as a gift from God. See Romans 1:7, 1Corinthians 1:3, 2Corinthians 1:2, Galatians 1:3, Ephesians 1:2, and Colossians 1:2.

Peace with God: This describes a relationship that we enter into with God through the finished work of Jesus Christ. See Romans 5:1

Peace of God: This is the peace spoken of here in Philippians 4:7. See also Colossians 3:15.

God’s peace is supernatural, not psychological and will stand guard over your feelings and thoughts. Stand guard over your heart and mind by means of Jesus Christ is a first-century term for high security, denoting to set a watch, post spies at gates and keep securely locked. Wow!!

Through prayer, experience God’s peace that surpasses all understanding! This peace is not senseless, but goes beyond our ability to understand and explain - therefore it must be experienced. This peace doesn’t just surpass the understanding of the worldly person, it surpasses all understanding. Even the godly person can’t comprehend this peace.

When people seem to “lose” their heart or mind, it often is connected to an absence of the peace from, with and of God in their life. Therefore, God’s peace does not act as a guard for the heart and mind.

Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. John 14:27

Blessings,

Barbara

2012-05-20T14:19:00.001-07:00

A Personal Bit of Information

"...Awake, you who sleep, Arise from the dead, And Christ will give you light." See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is. And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord, giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, submitting to one another in the fear of God.
Ephesians 5:14-21

The Women at the Well Ministry came about as a result of several things. One of them being I am that woman at the well. Having 5 husbands, living in sin, but saved, redeemed, forgiven and healed. My last husband, Larry, was a godly man who went home to be with Jesus in 2000 the day before our 4th wedding anniversary, and exactly 1 week before his 59 birthday. But husband #4 was abusive. He professed Christ, but lived otherwise.

Two days ago my dear friend, Cheryl Williams went home to be with Jesus. I loved Cheryl. Today I learned husband #4 passed just away too. My time with him was one of the roughest times in my life. It was another time that the Lord saved my life allowing me to get away from him safely. Although I was no longer in love with him I continued to pray he would find true peace with Jesus. I don't know if he did.

Sometimes in situations like this we can still feel loss and abandoned when we hear of a death of one who has played an integral part of our life. It can be a trigger for pain of those who were supposed to be there for us and love us but didn't. They could have left us through death, desertion or emotional absentee. Whatever the reason for our feeling abandoned, it could throw us for a loop hearing of the death of someone close. And maybe they weren't that close to us. It's the fact of a permanent separation. Questions unanswered. Love unfulfilled. For those of us who have abandonment issues something like this could shake our world. It does not have to!!

Your focus, just like mine, should be on the now and Jesus. He is the same yesterday, today and forever. For those that love Jesus, He will never leave us nor forsake us no matter the reason people leave. Focusing on the King of kings...that's how I choose to process this.

My lovingkindness and my fortress, My high tower and my deliverer, My shield and the One in whom I take refuge, Who subdues my people under me. LORD, what is man, that You take knowledge of him? Or the son of man, that You are mindful of him? Man is like a breath; His days are like a passing shadow.
Psalm 144:2-4

We may not know how long we will be in our present bodies, but we can know in Whom is in control. The Lord is lovingkindness and a fortress. He shields us, as though we're in a protective bubble built and guarded by the Holy Spirit.

Are you grieving over a loss? It could be the loss of a husband, father, mother, child, grandparent, close relative, friend, pet...or the loss of love from a parent, husband or relative or friend. Are you feeling abandoned by a person who neglected to take precious care of your emotions? Did they leave without explanation? Please know that Jesus knows how you feel. He will not abandon you, ever! Has He ever failed you? Has He ever not been there when you needed Him. Don't forget, if there feels like a separation between you and Jeus, you moved away from Him. He will never leave you nor forsake you. He will not abandon you.

Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written: "For Your sake we are killed all day long; We are accounted as sheep for the slaughter." Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:35-39

Blessings,
Barbara

2012-04-18T18:07:00.004-07:00

DYING TO SELF

When you are forgotten, or neglected, or purposely set at naught and you don't sting and hurt with the insult but your heart is happy being counted worthy to suffer Christ...that is DYING TO SELF.

When your good is evil spoken of, when your wishes are crosses, your advice disregarded, your opinion ridiculed, and you refuse to let anger rise in your heart, or even defend yourself, but take it all in patient, loving silence...that is DYING TO SELF.

When you lovingly and patiently bear any disorder, and irregularity, or annoyance, when you stand face-to-face with waste, folly, extravagance, spiritual insensibility and endure it as Jesus endured...that is DYING TO SELF.

When you are content with any food, any offering, any climate, any society, any raiment and any interruption by the will of God...that is DYING TO SELF.

When you never care to refer to yourself in conversation or to record your own good words or itch after commendations; when you can truly love to be unknown...that is DYING TO SELF.

When you can see your brother/sister prosper and have his/her needs met and can honestly rejoice with him/her in spirit and feel no envy or question God while your own needs are far greater and in desperate circumstances...that is DYING TO SELF.

When you can receive correction and reproof from one of less stature than yourself and can humbly submit inwardly as well as outwardly, finding no rebellion or resentment rising up within your heart...that is DYING TO SELF.

Are you dead yet? In these last days, the Spirit would bring us to the cross "That I may know Him...being made conformable unto His death." Philippians 3:10

-Anonymous-

Resurrection Sunday

2012-04-08T01:22:00.001-07:00

MAY WE BE A BLESSING
TO THE LORD'S RESURRECTION SUNDAY.

What does Resurrection Sunday mean to you? Post your comment here, or go to Women at the Well website, log-in (members), go to forums and find it under discussions. You can do both. Post a comment here and on the website. Pass this along if you like it, and let's hear what others have to say about Resurrection Sunday.

Let me hear what Jesus' resurrection means to you.

In His Love,
Barbara

Seductive Shortcuts

2012-03-12T15:34:00.001-07:00

Greetings!

My computer was on and off and on then off for some time. Now it's fixed. I have felt so out of the loop. And this coming from one who was resistent to joining the social networking society. I didn't even want one of those fancy cell phones. But, you know what? When my computer went down did I ever want one of those fancy phones 'cause my cell phone is pretty basic. I couldn't get to a lot of places and post or 'chat.' Well, thank you Lord for technology. How else is everyone going to see when you return for Your Bride?

I get these devotionals and I wanted to share this one with you. It ministered deeply to me as I can relate to it in my present circumstances.

From: Wisdom Hunters

“When Pharaoh let the people go, God did not lead them on the road through the Philistine country, though that was shorter. For God said, “If they face war, they might change their minds and return to Egypt.” So God led the people around by the desert road toward the Red Sea. The Israelites went up out of Egypt armed for battle. Exodus 13:17-18

Shortcuts are seductive because they are appealing and inviting. Shortcuts caress our pride, stroke our ego, and garner immediate gratification. We sometimes seek shortcuts while driving, preparing for school exams, career advancement, marriage maturity, parenting skills, financial success, and spiritual development. Shortcuts are attractive to your clever side because you think that with enough ingenuity and smarts you can bypass the normal rite of passage. However, the downside of shortcuts is that their promise of a faster way may be short-circuiting God’s best. Just because it is easier does not qualify it as the will of God. In fact, ease of execution may be evidence against God’s will.

Instead, a season of suffering may be His plan (1 Peter 4:19). So, do not depend on circumstances alone as the compass of where God is leading you. You may feel pressure from people, pride, politics, or finances to take the most expedient route. But be careful because expedience can be an excuse for the impatient and the distrusting. If you miss this opportunity there will be others, for God is much bigger than this one deal. Do not underestimate His wisdom in taking you through this laborious and sometimes painful process. It will be worth the wait because it is the process that is preparing you for His next steps. If you rush through the process you may miss God’s best.

Many times, He is unconventional in His approach. This is the nature of God, for He will not be hemmed in or backed into a corner. Cut God some slack by giving Him the latitude to lead you however and wherever He desires. Just because a friend of yours went down a similar road does not mean you should follow. God’s will for you may be just the opposite. One thing is for sure: He will get the glory when you are patient to follow Him in trust and obedience. God’s glory is your goal (1 Corinthians 10:31).

Since the glory of God is your objective, keep God’s glory as your litmus test, and your other initiatives will take care of themselves. The shortcut is tempting, but it may be more complicated than you can comprehend for now. Its complexity will certainly compound if you have to backtrack from the shortcut and start all over again. It is much better to wait and do this once and for all.

There will certainly be adjustments along the way, but have faith in God that He is facilitating His will even if some of your questions remain unanswered. He’s got your back even though the enemy may be breathing down your neck whispering words of doubt. God is in control. It is much better to take the longer route with God than the shorter one without Him. Travel instead on the proven path of Providence. Faith in Christ rejects seductive shortcuts.

Taken from March 2nd reading in the 365-day devotional book, “Seeking Daily the Heart of God”… http://bit.ly/bQHNIE

Who Do You Need to Forgive and Restore?

2012-02-05T18:19:00.000-08:00

Friday in my private time with the Lord, I was reminded of the Scriptures in 1 Corinthians 5 where the church was admonished to deliver the man who had sex with his father's wife; they were to turn this sinning Christian (he professed) over "to Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that his spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus." Probably no more is meant by this than a simple disowning of the person, accompanied with the refusal to admit him to the sacred ordinances, or to have any connection with him.

But then Paul comes back in 2 Corinthians 2:5-11 stating, "But if anyone has caused grief, he has not grieved me, but all of you to some extent--not to be too severe. 6 This punishment which was inflicted by the majority is sufficient for such a man,..."

That is, the man had suffered sufficiently. Paul is showing his tenderness towards this great transgressor. He had been disowned by the Church; he had deeply repented; and now Paul pleads for him.

7 "...so that, on the contrary, you ought rather to forgive and comfort him, lest perhaps such a one be swallowed up with too much sorrow."

He had suffered enough for the punishment inflicted had answered the end for which it was inflicted; and there was some danger that, if he were not restored to the heart of the Church, his distress and anguish would destroy his life, or drive him to despair. Have you ever felt like the Body of Christ was so unforgiving that it led you to despair?

8 "Therefore I urge you to reaffirm your love to him. 9 For to this end I also wrote, that I might put you to the test, whether you are obedient in all things. 10 Now whom you forgive anything, I also forgive. For if indeed I have forgiven anything, I have forgiven that one for your sakes in the presence of Christ, 11 lest Satan should take advantage of us; for we are not ignorant of his devices."

Christ forgave this repentant man, just as He forgives you and I of a repentant heart; let us forgive our brothers and sisters of offense against the Church, and restore him/her to its communion. Are we above Christ when it comes to our brothers and sisters in the Lord?

We as Believers too often carry our branding of the sinning Christian way too far (misguided or deliberate). Let's learn from Paul, "lest perhaps such a one be swallowed up with too much sorrow." Is there someone in the Body of Church who you need to forgive and restore?

An Excerpt From My Book - Do I have A Story?

2012-01-30T18:20:00.000-08:00

The Road Well Traveled

A Modern Day Look at the Woman at the Well

A story of pain and struggles ultimately leading to peace and strength

But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty;

1 Corinthians 1:27

CHAPTER ONE

The Journey Back

“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

It was October, 1993 and everything felt surreal. As I lay on the confines of the gurney in the ambulance I could not help but think surely this could not be happening again! Even in the midst of the chaos going on in my mind I could tell the ambulance was taking longer than necessary to get to the hospital. It was only a 5-minute ride from my apartment, but I knew more than 5 minutes had already passed. A wave of unwanted but familiar terror raced through my body. As the anxiety gripped my very soul I braced myself for what was to come next. You see, this was all too familiar to me as I had been down this well traveled road before.

“Aren’t we going to Northeast Baptist?” I asked of the calm but distant looking ambulance attendant, hoping he couldn’t sense the fear I had become so accustomed to concealing.

“Haven’t we passed it?” I continued. Once again hoping, if I continued talking he wouldn’t be able to answer. And if he couldn’t answer me then he wouldn’t be able to say something I didn’t want to hear. Halleluiah! I thought.

"Have mercy on me, O LORD, for I am weak; O LORD, heal me, for my bones are troubled." Psalms 6:2

This wasn't my first ride in an ambulance under these same circumstances, but surely I had been convincing in telling the paramedics that this time was truly an accident. I had no idea how many pills I had taken this trip around. I wasn’t trying to kill myself. I just wanted the physical pain in my stomach to go away. I had no idea how much God was protecting me or what He had in store for me. This nightmare would end up being the best ride of my life.

"We're not going to Northeast Baptist Hospital ma'am.”

"Why not, where are we going?” I guardedly asked, uneasy about his first answer. His hesitation was no longer than a moment, but it seemed like the silence was forever, making me wonder if he was going to say what I was thinking. If I pretended not to know what I thought he was thinking, then he wouldn’t say “it.”

“We’re going to University Hospital ", the attendant said cautiously, in spite of me thinking I could get into his head and make him say something else.

"Why are we going there?” Not fully understanding what was ahead of me. “I have insurance. Why aren't we going to Northeast Baptist? Why do I have to go to another hospital? I always go to Northeast Baptist? I have insurance. I can pay.” I even sounded desperate to myself. The restlessness was becoming more and more apparent at this point. The more I tried to convince the attendants that I was in control, the more anxious I became.

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;

Philippians 4:6

Once again the attendant hesitated in responding to my question. Could he see through the mask that was so much a part of me that even I could no longer see the real me? I had lived most of my life wearing many masks which appeared as though I had it all ‘together’ and in perfect control of my life. But the real person underneath those masks wanted to disappear. At best I wanted to vanish into nothingness because of the fear of everyone and everything!

As I tried to continue to look as though I was in control of my emotions I was becoming more and more distraught. I wondered if he could sense the fear that overwhelmed me at that time. Inside my head I could hear the sound of my voice screaming, “calm down.” With a shaky voice I asked, "Where's University Hospital and why do you have to take me there? I told you I have insurance and I always go to Northeast Baptist. Why do I have to go there?"

All I wanted was a little medical attention and then I would be able to go back home. So I thought. I attempted to sit up, hoping to get some idea where we were and where we were going.

Finally, he said, "It's about 15 minutes away, ma'am. Just try and relax. We'll be there soon."

He only answered part of my question. Why were they taking me to another hospital!?! Then the dreaded words came:

"University Hospital is where we have to take people that can't pay," he said in a matter of fact tone.

"I told you I have insurance. Why won't you listen to me?" I demanded.

Then...

"Ma'am, we have to take everyone there who attempts suicide."

Have you ever been so fearful that you feel as though the blood in your veins has turned to ice water? At that time, no one could tell me that was not actually happening. The fear had turned to panic.

"But I didn't try to kill myself this time! It was an accident! You don't understand! It was an accident!" I screamed at him.

"Calm down lady! If you don't calm down we're going to have to tie you down."

"But I don't want to go to University Hospital! I have insurance! I can pay! I didn't try to kill myself! I didn't try to kill myself this time. It was an accident! I tell you it was an accident!"

But was it?!?

It took many years for me to realize that what I really wanted was for the emotional turmoil to end, not my life. But at that time I would do and did anything I could to stop the sting caused by the enormous pain in my heart and mind. The thoughts of rejection, shame, humiliation, guilt and despair constantly invaded my thoughts so that it affected every part of my life, preventing me from focusing on the One who knew and knows all my troubles. I had accepted Christ into my life July 26, 1980, but the struggles of sanity and sin plagued me so much I often thought there’s no way I could be saved. The guilt of falling back into sin after sin haunted me with guilt heaped upon guilt I was already been carrying from the past.

I didn’t know then that I had a choice to re-focus those ugly, demeaning thoughts by focusing on the wonderful promises of God, or by meditating on the person of Jesus and His attributes. I had read many times in His Word about God’s wisdom, knowledge, goodness and grace towards me, but somehow it didn’t penetrate into my heart. I couldn’t understand that I could choose to replace those dreadful thoughts with the thoughts of Christ. Or I could have focused on the prophecies and plan of God pointing to His Son’s appearance, especially in the Old Testament. I love the Old Testament. What about focusing on the Gospel accounts of the life of Christ -- from His nativity to His death, resurrection and ascension? Oh how I needed to understand these things!

Many Christians are able to grasp this simple application of re-focusing on the goodness of God when things go awry and “those” thoughts bombard the mind. Then there are those like me; when I became a Christian I didn’t understand how to practically “give it to God” or what it meant by “take every thought captive to the obedience of Jesus Christ.” I could see the verses and know what they meant, but I was not able to apply them to my shredded life. But at that time, in the beginning of my journey with Jesus, it was hard for me to understand His love for me, let alone that He loves me unconditionally and that He was the way out of the pain in my heart and mind.

Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy--meditate on these things. Philippians 4:8

Have you ever known something for sure in your head because you see it, you hear it and you read it over and over again, but for some reason it just doesn’t register in your heart and soul? By the time this ambulance trip to the hospital came around I had read so many times that God loves me and that He’ll never leave me nor forsake me. Now I was about to get the opportunity to experience first-hand the reality and practicality of that very fact.

Your comments are appreciated.

Hiding Behind Success

2012-01-26T17:54:00.000-08:00

I've noticed, and I'm sure you have too, even some women who are powerful and successful, by the world's standards and perhaps by God's blessings, as well, still suffer (quietly) from a painful past.

These hurts from the past, and maybe present circumstances, can cause one to be in a state of feeling "stuck", either in your goals and most certainly with their relationship with the Lord. Do you know that there is a fail safe way of knowing you truly can defeat those negative, ugly thoughts that keep telling you that "you cannot succeed because..."

Women at the Well Bible study has been effectively taught for over 16 years, to women who have been plagued with emotional illness, victims of the occult and/or witchcraft, multiple suicide attempts and every hardcore issue you can imagine. It’s a no-nonsense, tough, powerful study for the person who is sick and tired of being sick and tired.

WAW website has a new page called "Quiet Time", under "Members" drop-down tab. It's a place where you can go and complete your personal devotional time. It's a mini Bible study. Try it. Comments and suggestions are welcome.

Blessings

The Last Hour

2012-01-17T17:46:00.000-08:00

I wrote a portion of the following (which is included in my book, prayerfully, to be published) almost a year ago for the Women's Newsletter publication at church. It tells a true story that in the face of adversity we do not have to fear, because God is always with us, as Believers:

It had been nearly two years since I received the letter from my mother stating she no longer wanted me to be a part of her life. She told me on numerous occasions before that she wanted nothing to do with God, or the Jesus I believed in. She stated to my son in the letter, basically since he was a part of me (obviously including her great grand-children as well); she also was cutting him out of her life. Still, I continued to pray for her salvation, as I had done for 28 years.

In May 2008 I learned from her best friend that she was in the hospital suffering with lung cancer. After much prayer, I made the phone call to the hospital, hoping she would be the one answering the phone in her room. She would refuse to talk to me if someone else answered. She answered! That was my confirmation to make the trip to Texas. After telling her I was coming with or without her consent, I made the trip, along with my son, daughter-in-law and, at that time, my 5 month-old grand-daughter. As I prayed about making the trip, the Lord put it ever so plain in my heart that I would learn the meaning of Daniel in the den of lions (Daniel 6:6-24).

After telling her she had no choice in the matter of me coming, she actually allowed us to stay at her house. We arrived in Texas, visited her in the hospital, where she shared with me that she has done something that is very vindictive and could really “mess with my mind.” What she didn’t know was I had already been told that she had disinherited not only me, but punished my son and his family as well. Thank You Lord, for preparing me for what was to come!

After a few days my family had to return home. There I was alone in the fire; in the den. I was alone but not lonely because I knew God had me wrapped tightly in His protective bubble, just as He had done many, many times before. It was a place where nothing or no one could touch me without His approval.

“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, Nor shall the flame scorch you.” Isaiah 43:2

So no matter what the outcome, I knew I was in His perfect will, and I didn’t expect a bed of roses.

The cancer spread quickly. Beginning in her lungs, bones and finally spreading to her brain. After several days they set her up to receive hospice at home. She returned to her house, with me telling her I would be there for as long as necessary; for the long run; no matter how long she needed me (which she quickly shared how she really didn’t because she had faithful people who saw to her needs).

Yes, she was mean to me; even cruel at times. The lions were hungry. But they didn’t devour me, though they tried. They couldn’t!!

During the last hours that she was able to speak she asked me several times, “Are we alright?” I knew this was her way of saying she was sorry. I didn’t exactly know what she was sorry for: Was it the way she treated me, or didn’t treat me, as a child. Was it the way she physically abused? Or was she sorry because she had to show me that she really did disown me? I couldn’t tell because she didn’t explain herself. At any case, I told her we were alright. We weren’t!! I was dying inside of ‘another’ broken heart, knowing what was coming. I was dying inside because I wanted things to be okay between her and me. I knew they weren’t, but I knew the Lord didn’t want me to tell her that.

The Lord put it on a dear friend of mine to travel to Texas to see to “my” needs. What a friend!! After a few days Cheryl arrived. What a blessing and what a God-send!! You see no matter what, I knew my mother was not going to receive the Word about Jesus from me. I didn’t know how I was going to be able to witness to her, but God had a plan. A perfect plan. It involved my friend Cheryl. So we set it in motion. Cheryl was to go into her room, introduce herself and begin witnessing to her. She was not to mention that she was my friend or even that she knew me. It worked out fine that way because my mother didn’t ask who she was, or where she came from. Earlier that day a chaplain visited, so it was not unusual to see another person there ministering to her. Anyway, by this time my mother was only able to squeeze hands, acknowledging comprehension. She was declining in health rapidly.

After witnessing to my mother for a few days, at about 11pm on May 26, 2008, I asked my friend to go into my mother’s room – and present the bottom line; ask her if she wanted to receive Jesus as her Lord and Savior. The days prior to this my mother had been receptive to what Cheryl had been saying to her about salvation.

Strange how God works things for His good, isn’t it?

I knew this would probably be her last chance to be set free of the guilt, shame, anguish, pain and bitterness she had endured for the past 83 years. She wanted to be forgiven and she wanted to be freed from the bondage she had endured for such a long time.

She received Jesus into her heart, and about 1 hour later entered into the presence of King Jesus!!

"But many who are first will be last, and the last first.” Matthew 19:30

Even though my mother disinherited me (yes, she went through with it), I have the blessed assurance that I will never be disinherited by my Father in heaven. He has promised me an inheritance. Not only do I get to spend eternity with Christ, my baby girl, Kellie, and now, my mother.

“And for this reason He is the Mediator of the new covenant, by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions under the first covenant, that those who are called may receive the promise of the eternal inheritance.” Hebrews 9:15

When You Pass Through The Waters

2012-01-09T19:22:00.000-08:00

"When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, Nor shall the flame scorch you."

Isaiah 43:2

Though the Lord will chasten us for our sins, He will not allow our enemies to utterly destroy us.

"For I am with you,' says the LORD, 'to save you; Though I make a full end of all nations where I have scattered you, Yet I will not make a complete end of you. But I will correct you in justice, And will not let you go altogether unpunished.'" Jeremiah 30:11

These are precious promises made to you and me, God's children, in our affliction, of His presence with us, for our support under affliction. Precious promises for our deliverance out of it, telling us He will be present with us in our greatest difficulties and dangers. Though you have or are going through fire and water, which may feel like the valley of the shadow of death, yet, while you have God with you, you don't have to fear any evil.

"You have caused men to ride over our heads; We went through fire and through water; But You brought us out to rich fulfillment." Psalm 66:12.

He has not forgotten your pain and suffering. Hold on with your bare knuckles, if necessary.

How Do I Get Out of This Desert?

2012-01-03T23:30:00.000-08:00

Too often we quote Jeremiah 29:11 and don't pay much attention to the verses following. Yes, the LORD has thoughts of peace, not of evil and He wants to give us hope. But let us remember that we must diligently seek Him whole-heartedly. Those quick little prayers we whisper up to Him should not replace the heart-felt petitions diligently sent straight to His throne room.

Jeremiah 29:11-14

11 - For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.

12 - Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you.

13 - And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.

14 - I will be found by you, says the LORD, and I will bring you back from your captivity; I will gather you from all the nations and from all the places where I have driven you, says the LORD, and I will bring you to the place from which I cause you to be carried away captive.

Verse 12 - Then you will call…

Call here means to properly address by name. Give God His due worship. This could mean we call Him God, Lord, Papa, Daddy, Jehovah, etc. But just make sure the worship is reverent. The old English word for “worship” was “worthship.” He is worth all our praise.

…upon Me and go and pray to Me…

It’s perfectly fine to walk, drive, sit in a crowd or even be in conversation and still praying. 1Thessolonians 5:17 tells us to pray without ceasing. However, the word go here means to take our prayers and go other places: It may be such that we take our praying for granted and need to go to a place of peace and quiet…on a consistent basis (i.e., “prayer closet”) Are you sometimes slothful in the way you go about seeking Him in prayer?

…and I will listen to you…

By way of listening, the LORD will give you salvation and deliverance. But that’s not all.

'Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know.' Jeremiah 33:3

Verse 13 And you will seek Me…

This is to search out (by any method, specifically in worship or prayer).

…and find Me…

This is what I want. I want to know that the Lord is listening to me to the point that I can be sure that He will answer me. Answer in His way, not necessarily my way. That is, He will come forth and He will answer me.

He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him and honor him. Psalms 91:15

…when you search for Me with all your heart.

This can’t be a half-baked effort. We’ve got to put some heat and heart into seeking the Lord.

Verse 14 I will be found by you, says the LORD, and I will bring you back from your captivity; I will gather you from all the nations and from all the places where I have driven you, says the LORD, and I will bring you to the place from which I cause you to be carried away captive.

For Israel this meant bringing them back to into the land that the LORD had promised them through Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. He would be sending them with new hearts. They will not worship idols any more, but they shall worship Him. He means for them to be serious and diligent in their addresses and applications to Him, and He will then listen and answer their applications.

What does this mean for you and me, right here, today?

In seeking God we must not be lazy or impatient in searching for Him. Our heart and mind must be steadfast to accomplish a diligent search. It takes perseverance and self-control. When we search for Him we are searching for direction and encouragement to our faith and hope. Continue seeking, and take pains in seeking and this we must do with our heart (that is, in sincerity and uprightness, with vigor and fervency, putting forth all that is within us in prayer).

He will be found and answer our prayers. Oh, they could be yes, no or wait, but He will answer. Even His silence is an answer. Listen to it carefully and quietly.

Then He will bring you out of the spiritual desert, where you’ve felt like you’ve been captive. He will spiritually pick you up and remove you from that location (this could be literal). He is able to and more than wants to deliver you from depression, oppression, anxiety, anger, fear, a crushed broken heart that He has allowed in your life. This experience has been for your benefit to draw you closer to Him. He will bring you to a place of rest, release, peace and joy that cannot be taken away. But…we must seek Him with a sincere heart, with no thought as to how you want Him to answer you.

Seek Him now. Remember Jeremiah 33:3

Blessings,