Issuu

December 2025

Photographer

Shara Bueler-Repka

Photographer: Shara Bueler-Repka

Along with a variety of fun accomplishments (see her article bio), Shara Bueler-Repka enjoys photographing God’s awesome creation. Throughout her adventures, Shara has photographed the unique, humorous, and breathtaking images of God’s incredible handiwork, capturing the beauty and detail. Her photos always accompany her articles, as the pictures creatively reflect the subject matter. She also loves to inspire others by sharing God’s Word through her photos. She feels it’s important to look for God’s deeper message within the image.

Come for a visit:

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/shara.buelerrepka WEBSITE: www.ponyexpressministry.com

Note From Karen Ruhl, Editor

December’s Here

I don’t know about you, but this year has flown by! And, I have had a hard time keeping up with everything. December is a good month, kids get excited knowing that Christmas is at the end of the month and Santa Claus brings them presents. I love the look on the youngest children when they come out in the morning and see the Christmas tree and all of the packages. It is my hope that each family will sit before the tree and discuss why we celebrate Christmas. And, I also hope that you will all take time to pray before the day gets busy.

I would love to hear from you. Drop me a note and tell me your goals for 2026, or, tell me your favorite parts of 2025. You can drop the note to Team@faithoneverycorner.com. I may just publish a list of favorites!

I would like to thank each and every writer that has contriubuted to the magazine. It is such a great feeling as I start getting the articles, poems, and photos for the next issue. Our writers are talented, and beyond that, they are loving people. Please take a minute to let them know you appreciate the works that are published.

I pray for each of you, the contributors, and the readers.

One more thing I would like to say here, is that I am very blessed to have great friends all over the country. I love hearing from you and am very thankful for the friendship we share.

I wish each of you a very Merry Christmas and pray for 2026 to be the best yet.

Much love, Karen

Team@faithoneverycorner.com

I had some fun with a photo of Damien. He would make a great Santa’s helper!

COVER PHOTO AND OTHER PHOTOS BY Shara Bueler-Repka

Poems ... by John Alexander ... Pages 6-7

A Quiet Morning In Low Country ... by Melissa Henderson ... Pages 8-9

Advent Calendars and Faith ... by Yvonne M. Morgan ... Pages 10-11

Stop...And Breathe ... by Donna J. Miller.. Page 12-13

Morning Coffee ... by Michael E. Wells ... Pages 14-15

God’s Plan For Mankind ... by Irene Surya ... Page 16

Beauty Surrounds Us ... Karen Ruhl ... Page 17

Are You In Need of a Recharge ... By Brianna Barrett ... Pages 18-19

Photos by Shara Bueler-Repka ... Page 20-21

No Way Out? ... By Shara Bueler-Repka ... Pages 22-23

“Cease From That Stinkin Thinkin” By Linda McDougal... Pages 24-25

Book Reviews ... Pages 26-27 (Support our writers) Great Kids Christmas Books

Happy Birthday ... By Linda Castro ... Pages 28-29

Poems ... Jodie Glardon ... Pages 30-31

“Be The Christ In Christmas” ... By Richard D. Waters.. Page 32-33

A Ludicrous Bump in the Road on the Way to Understanding God’s Will for Me ... Mitchell Milch ... Page 34-35

We Are What We Eat: Your Cultural Diet Can Impact Your Spiritual Health

Mitchell Milch ... Page 36-37

Why Are We Doing This? ... by Karen Bowling ... Page 38-39

A Prayer For December

Lord God, thank You for this day and for the love shared by all reading this magazine . We remain eternally grateful for the gift of Jesus into our world, and we pray that our eyes be opened to the ways in which He continues to be active in our lives, blessing us each and every day.

We pray this in the mighty name of Jesus.

Amen

John Alexander

I don’t know your plans or traditions, but I enjoy the sights and sounds of Christmas. Whether it is a favorite play, a choir, or a performance I enjoy the sights, the sounds, and the smells that remind me of Christmas. They bring back so many fond memories and remind me of the true meaning of Christmas. I pray these poems bring back some fond memories and that this Christmas you are truly blessed.

Blessings, John Alexander

2021-12-11 A Christmas Carol

2022-11-28 Christmas Nostalgia

2023-12-05 Christmas Gatherings

QuietTimeRhymes.com

A Christmas Carol

A Christmas Carol features Scrooge, His load of greed was old and huge, Forgotten love replaced by gold, His crusty heart, no warmth, just cold. We all have ghosts of Christmas past, Some shattered dreams dark shadows cast, Impacting still our lives today. We still can choose a brighter day. The Christmas future’s in our heart, We have a choice, a brand-new start. Reach out to those you love and know, And let them see your love, your glow. Find ways to show your love and care, Let love and kindness fill the air.

Christmas Nostalgia

I tend toward nostalgic this time of the year. Past Christmases whisper inside of my ear. Reminders to cherish the ones that remain. It’s more about giving, it’s not about gain. A time to reach out to each other in love, Recall how the angels sang praises above, Gave glory to God, proclaimed peace on the earth The night in a manger that Mary gave birth. It’s a time to remember, to be of good cheer. May the joy of the season be with us all year. May the love in our hearts find a way to be shared. May our words and our actions show others we care. Remember the Christ child who taught s to give. He gave up His life so that others may live.

Christmas Gatherings

The sharing at Christmas with friends gathered ‘round,

The stories, the laughter, how sweet is the sound, The coming together of friends I hold dear Is truly a blessing I savor each year.

For the festive occasions I hardly can wait. It’s the birth of a savior that we celebrate.

The candles, the holly, the carols we sing, We celebrate Jesus, the birth of a King.

The joy of the season, the love in our hearts Is with us forever, and never departs.

God gave us His Spirit, sent down from above. God’s holy presence we share in His love.

I’m grateful for friends and the time that we share, God’s people together we show love and care.

Award-winning author Melissa Henderson writes inspirational messages laced with a bit of humor. With stories in books, magazines, devotionals and more, Melissa hopes to encourage readers. Melissa is the author of “Licky the Lizard” and “Grumpy the Gator”. Her passions are helping in community and church. Melissa is an Elder, Deacon and Stephen Minister. Follow Melissa on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and at https://www.facebook.com/melissa.henderson.9440

Read her blogs at: https://melissaghenderson.com/ It’s Always A Story With The Hendersons

A Quiet Winter Morning in the Lowcountry

By Melissa Henderson

The weather forecasters had been predicting a dramatic drop in temperatures. Warming shelters gathered supplies for anyone needing shelter, clothing, and nourishment. Churches collected hats, mittens, and blankets. Children shivered as they stood at bus stops waiting for the ride to school. This was a quiet winter morning in the Lowcountry.

I opened the window blinds and looked outside. The bird feeders were full of seeds that would feed a variety of birds. There was no snow on the ground. The temperature was 31degrees with a wind chill of 26. There would be no frost or snow because the air was too dry. My sinuses had already alerted me to the dry air.

As I stood at the window, I was fascinated by the activity outside on this quiet morning. A wind blew swirls of gold, orange, yellow, and brown leaves from the maple trees. Garden flags twisted to and fro on the small poles. Herons, egrets, hawks, and other big birds flew high in the sky. The sky was filled with puffy white clouds. A spot of bright blue poked through in some spots. What a beautiful morning!

I thanked God for His many blessings. The creations of God are awesome. From leaves to birds to people to animals, everything has specific and unique qualities. Details that are so tiny that the human eye can’t see. Other details are large and easily noticeable. But how often do we pause and absorb what God has created?

My day continued with everyday tasks, making more lists, and checking emails and messages. The neighborhood stayed quiet for a little while longer. Then, the sounds of vehicles carrying folks going from place to place filled the air. The weekly trash collection truck stopped at each home to collect the garbage. Life was moving faster than it had been earlier in the morning. Although the sounds were different, a peace filled my soul. The peace that only God can give. I smiled. God listens and hears our prayers. Through the quiet and in the loud, God answers.

The day passed into the afternoon and then into the evening. Darkness filled the sky. Again, quiet covered the neighborhood. People stayed inside as they prepared for the nighttime activities. Cars and trucks were parked in driveways and garages. Porch lights turned on. The air was still. Life had quieted from the hustle and bustle of the day.

Yes, there was quiet in the Lowcountry of South Carolina.

Do you enjoy mornings or evenings? How do you look for the blessings from God?In His Name,

Melissa Henderson

Click on the book covers to purchase Melissa’s books.

Yvonne M Morgan, Christian author and speaker

https://yvonne-morgan.com

Blog at Turningmountainsintomolehills.org Twitter: @ymmauthor

Website: Yvonne-Morgan.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ YMMauthor/

Turning Mountains into Molehills (2017)

Advent Calendars and Faith

By Yvonne M. Morgan

A British tradition for my Advent season always included a Cadbury Advent calendar. The sight of those beautifully designed calendars, with their vibrant colors and festive illustrations, always brought a sense of excitement and anticipation. The rich aroma of the Cadbury chocolate wafted through the air as each door opened, tempting our senses, and making our mouths water in anticipation. Now, every year, I take pleasure in purchasing these calendars for my loved ones, knowing they will experience the same joy and delight I did as a child. But the focus on the commercial aspects of Advent calendars has overshadowed its religious significance.“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

What is Advent?

According to the church calendar, Advent begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas, typically falling between November 27th and December 3rd, ushering in a season of anticipation and preparation for the holiday. The four Sundays of Advent, always observed with candle lighting, readings from Scripture, and the singing of hymns, mark a time of anticipation and preparation for the birth of Jesus.

On each of the Sundays during Advent, the soft glow of a newly lit candle fills the room, inviting us to ponder the themes of hope, peace, love, and joy. The focus on the commercial aspects of Advent calendars has overshadowed its religious significance; how can we use it to teach the next generation about our faith? To transform this moment into a faith lesson, read scriptures about each of them before opening the calendar door, and conclude with a prayer inspired by the Lutheran Church.

Hope in Advent

Every morning, I’d jump out of bed hoping that my parents would let me rip open the calendar before breakfast, because who doesn’t love the taste of chocolate, especially first thing in the morning? Teach them about hope by sharing and discussing the following scriptures.

.Sunday, Dec. 1: John 1:1-5 (NIV).

. Monday, Dec. 2: Jeremiah 33:14-16 (NIV).

.Tuesday, Dec. 3: Luke 1:5-10 (NIV).

.Wednesday, Dec. 4: Luke 1:11-17 (NIV).

. Friday, Dec. 5: Luke 1:26-38 (NIV).

.Saturday, Dec. 6: Matthew 1:18-21 (NIV).

Dear Jesus, you are the hope in our messy world. This Advent, help us slow down, listen to your voice, and focus on what’s really important. We place our hope in you as we prepare our hearts to celebrate your birth on Christmas. Amen.

Advent Peace

The anticipation of the day’s calendar door, a quiet tension, replaced the usual peace around our house. To convey teachings on peace, consider reading the following scriptures:

. Sunday, Dec. 7: Matthew 1:22-25 (NIV).

.Monday, Dec. 8: Isaiah 7:14 (NIV).

.Tuesday, Dec. 9: Luke 1:39-45 (NIV).

.Wednesday, Dec. 10: Luke 1:46-56 (NIV).

.Thursday, Dec. 11: Luke 1:68-79 (NIV).

. Friday, Dec. 12: Luke 2:1-5 (NIV).

.Saturday, Dec. 13: Luke 2:6-7 (NIV).

Dear Jesus, help us focus on you during this busy season. May we stay aware of the joy you bring into our lives. We want to find you in the everyday moments and come with hearts of gratitude to your manger on Christmas. Amen.

Love

My parents’ love for us was clear in the thoughtful gifts they provided, but it was the joy they shared each day as we opened our calendar that made the presents truly special. During this Advent season, use these Bible verses to illustrate the depth and breadth of Christ’s love.

. Sunday, Dec. 21: Matthew 2:9-12 (NIV).

. Monday, Dec. 22: Isaiah 9:6-7 (NIV).

. Tuesday, Dec. 23: John 1:1-14 (NIV).

Dear Jesus, may the light of your love always shine in our hearts. As Christmas draws closer, we marvel at your great love for us. Let your love transform every aspect of our lives and touch everyone we encounter. Our hearts are open to you, Jesus. Amen.

The Next Advent

The second coming of Christ, also known as the Second Advent, is still awaited. ccording to the Bible, which is the Word of God, we have the knowledge that it will occur. The promise of Jesus’ second coming is a core belief in the Christian faith. The exact time remains a mystery to us. It’s important for us to always be ready and keep our hearts prepared.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, your son, Jesus, is your greatest gift to us, a grand sign of your love. Guide us as we strive to walk in that love together as a family this Advent. As we prepare our hearts for Christmas, bring us closer to each other and to your Son. Give us the grace and strength we need every day. Help us always to trust in you. Come, Lord Jesus, lead all people closer to you. Come and dispel the darkness of our world with the light of your love. Amen.closer to you. Come and dispel the darkness of our world with the light of your love. Amen.

Donna is a preschool curriculum writer for Lifeway and loves teaching two year olds at her church, Hudson First Baptist. She is a retired elementary school media coordinator and K-1 teacher. She loves all children - especially her 4 grandchildren! She loves to read, scrapbook, and make cards. Donna lives in Hudson, NC with her husband, Lewis. They enjoy traveling together.

Stop…and Breathe!

By Donna J. Miller

Christmas is coming! Is your December calendar filling up with shopping, wrapping, decorating, cooking, parties, celebrations, church events, ministry opportunities, and so much more? Are you beginning to feel that hectic Christmas feeling… everything is moving too fast and you can’t keep up?

When I was in high school (many years ago), I was in our school choir and had a crazy experience of feeling out of control. The choir was presenting a Christmas concert in the school gym for the student body. We were standing on risers and singing the songs we had practiced repeatedly. We were ready! Just as we began to sing “Sleigh Ride,” which is fast and exciting, a boy on the front row of the choir fainted and fell to the floor. Everyone in the choir and the student body gasped.

Our choir director, Mrs. McClure, motioned to us and to our student pianist to keep singing as she rushed to help the boy, leaving the choir without direction. The principal and another teacher ran onto the gym floor to help. They got the young man up and took him out safely.

However, without the steady direction of our choir director, and since we were all worried about our friend, we had increased our speed until we were racing through the song! We had lost control and were breathlessly singing, “Just hear those sleigh bells jingling, Ring ting tingling,too. Come on, it’s lovely weather for a sleigh ride together with you,” as fast as we could! If it had been a real sleigh ride, the horse would have been gasping for breath along with us!

As they took the boy out, Mrs. McClure stood, and looked shocked at her runaway choir! With one lifted hand as a seasoned choir director, she stopped us. We took a deep breath, relieved to be off that runaway sleigh. Calmly, she motioned for us to start over and under her direction, we sang the song just as we had practiced.

We all knew we were singing too fast and felt out of control but we didn’t know how to “fix” it! When our director took control and guided us to sing the song correctly, we did an excellent job. I think of this experience often when life feels out of control.

God gives us a direction in Psalm 46:10a that we can rely on in those hectic times of life. The familiar King James Version (KJV) says, “Be still, and know that I am God.” The Christian Standard Bible (CSB) says, “Stop fighting, and know that I am God.” The Contemporary English Version (CEV) says, “Our God says, ‘Calm down, and learn that I am God!’” We do need to calm down. We don’t need to be perfectionists or always busy. We need to be still and know that He is God. Celebrating Christmas is not about the decorations, parties, cookies and pick-up foods, and the other traditions that we have added to the celebration.

Remember, that Christmas is about celebrating Jesus’ birth! When we quiet ourselves (as Mrs. McClure quieted our choir) and trust in God’s control (as we trusted Mrs. McClure’s direction), we realize our dependence on God and our perspective changes. Remember God sent Jesus because He loves us.

In the Christmas story, did Joseph feel out of control when Caesar Augustus issued a decreethat required him to go to Bethlehem to be registered? Did he look at Mary, knowing that the time for her son to be born was at hand and that the trip would be hard on her?

Did Mary feel out of control as they looked for a vacant room to find that the inns were full? Did she feel the beginning pains of labor and be concerned about where she would give birth?

Did the shepherds worry about leaving the sheep as they hurried to find the baby lying in the manger?

Our lives can often feel like they are out of our control, but when we acknowledge God’s control, we allow the true meaning of Christmas to remain. Do people know that we treasure them, more than we treasure our perfect traditions? Do we need to limit the parties and events we plan or attend? Do we need to cook fewer special foods and enjoy just a few of our favorites? Knowing God’s in control, we choose the best for ourselves and our families. Through faith in Him, we have peace.

I love Luke 2:19 (CSB) that tells us, “Mary was treasuring up all these things in her heart and meditating on them.” In just a few days, Mary traveled with Joseph to Bethlehem, gave birth to her baby boy in a stable, welcomed shepherds who surprisingly came to see the baby, and heard their stories of a multitude of angels appearing. These are the miracles of Christmas!

We need to stop as Colossians 3:15a (KJV) says,” And let the peace of God rule in your hearts.” Look at Christmas as an opportunity to share the truths that God loves us and sent His Son. Enjoy your family times and your other celebrations, but remember the reason for all the celebration and look for ways to share the miracle of God’s love with all you meet.

That day in the high school gym, Mrs. McClure decided to stop her runaway choir in order to get control before she started the song “Sleigh Ride” again. What decisions do you need to make to let God control your Christmas season this year?

Michael E. Wells has a passion for writing letters of Christian encouragement. With poetic style and moving messages, the reader is often comforted and consoled, inspired and refreshed. Since his retirement from Federal Service in 2006, most mornings are spent penning letters of the heart. Tucked away in the foothills of Pennsylvania, his is an idyllic lifestyle in a pastoral setting. This backdrop helps to set both mood and message for his many writings. You can find his book, “Morning Coffee with Words For The Day” at Amazon.com.

Morning Coffee

by Michael E. Wells

BLINDED BY THE LIGHT

As much as we may want to believe that Dec. 25th is the sacred day of the birth of Christ celebrated for over 2000 years it is not. Although many of the symbols have been around for millennia most are not Christian in origin. Many of us know this as we celebrate with loved ones during this season. But still we recognize this as a Holy time whether they do or not.

The Christmas we celebrate this month would have been unrecognizable just a 100 years ago. Because our country is made up of every culture on the planet this is now how we celebrate the birth of Christ. It is very easy to get lost in all of the symbolism of the celebration and miss the Spirit of Christ.

We see the man dressed in red spending his life giving gifts and miss the Man stained with red Who gave His life as a gift. We are awestruck as we gaze at the myriad of flickering colored lights and miss the lone star that shone brightly that night. Some say Jesus is the reason for the season and this is true but Jesus does not need a reason to be in season. We are told that to honor the day we must spend what we do not have on people who do not need so as not to be looked down upon. The greed of our culture has manipulated us to perpetuate this mindset. Instead of more gifts we need to be more giving, instead of spending more money on people we need to spend more time with them.

We have been led to believe that the external will enrich the internal. We have been blinded by the light of materialism and deafened by the roar of commercialism that we no longer see the miracle of His birth or hear the angel’s announcement. These are the greatest words ever spoken to mankind, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” No manner of external light can match the internal illumination He gives and no manner of gift we receive can match the Gift He brings. This Christmas as you gather together with friends and family may you be able to express this truth to those who are still blinded by the light.

A SENSE OF THE SEASON

If we were to clear away the gifts and glitter, turn off the lights and looping music we may just hear a voice and sense a presence. Our greatest challenge to inner depth is outer distraction. Yes, we need to be culturally aware and sensitive to those around us celebrating this season, though many get lost in the craze of commercialism.

But we ourselves may need a moment of silence to appreciate the passing season. May you as Mary, in slipping away from her sister Martha to be with Jesus, do the more needful thing at times. Or as Nicodemus, find Jesus in the night to answer some pressing questions on your heart.

I think of Zacchaeus, rising above the chaos of the moment to be called upon by Jesus to spend time. They had a sense of the moment they were in. With all the craziness of the next few days may you steal away for what is needful, to answer pressing questions on your heart and to hear the Savior call your name. May you have a renewed sense of the season.

SHEPHERDS AND WISE MEN

Luke and Matthew tell us the stories of these encounters. One group was not aware and one group was. One had no clue of what God was doing among them, the other did. One was not seeking, one was. But both were about to have an encounter that would forever change their lives. It is much like us today. We know of those who seek God from childhood while others, it comes upon them suddenly.

But one thing they have in common, they both have had encounters. As the Shepherds and Wise Men of old may you too have an encounter during this time of celebration that will forever change your life. If you are unaware may He be made known to you. If you are seeking may you find Him. It is in the encounter that we are changed.

Hope is renewed and faith strengthened. Where there was loneliness comes companionship, where there was no direction comes purpose. He is the babe in the manger, the child in the Temple, the healer in the streets, the prophet on the hillside, the Savior on the cross and now the Presence in the believer. Seek and you shall find.

Mike’s book is available to purchase on Amazon. I highly recommend this book! -Karen Ruhl

GOD’S PLAN FOR MANKIND

By Irene Surya

As the snowflakes slid down The soft, thatched roof, On a quiet, winter night

As a single star in the sky Shone bright and clear, On a momentous day in history

As the sober animals In the humble manger, Waited for the glorious night ahead

Dr. Irene Surya is an awardwinning author of her book, In Solitude with God. Her poems have been published in various magazines and anthologies. She has a passion for writing for the Lord and glorifying His name through her writings. She loves and serves the Lord with her husband.

The King of all universe Was born in a stable To fulfill God’s plan for mankind.

The prophecy of Christ’s birth Was foretold centuries ago To the first mother on earth, Eve.

God promised the first woman, A seed will be born through her Who will stamp the head of satan.

The King who was born that day Wants to rule your heart each day To be your Savior and Lord everyday.

Click on book to purchase from Amazon.

BEAUTY SURROUNDS US by Karen Ruhl

I love nature and I am always amazed at what God created for us to enjoy. Fall is one of the prettiest times of year with a variety of colorful trees and flowers. And, the sky seems to show off with white puffy clouds and beautiful sunsets.

The other day, I started walking and looked up in the sky. I smiled and said “Thank You, God. I thank you for everything you give us. I am in awe of the beauty you create.

There above me was a beautiful cloud from airplanes made into the shape of a cross. I continued to pray and give thanks for all God does for us. And, I smiled and went in and shared the photo online. God is so good. I hope you look up into the sky when you are walking or just outside getting ready to go somewhere. God is there, He is watching over us. Amen

Brianna is a Carolina girl who loves Jesus and her family. She enjoys watching the sunrise, photography, reading, writing, and paddleboarding. According to her teenage son, she’s a master chef in the kitchen, making gluten-free cuisine from around the world. Her writing and photography have appeared in numerous publications including Faith On Every Corner, Creation Illustrated, and Our Story Magazine, and she is a contributor to The Grit and Grace Project and Broken But Priceless Magazine where she writes the column, “From A Homemaker’s Heart”. Her first devotional book, “Hope in the Healing: A 40-Day Devotional Journey Through Chronic Illness” is due out this spring. Check out her latest works at www.briannagrams.com and connect with her on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest.

Are You In Need of a Recharge

By Brianna Barrett

A teacher recently asked my son to help with a car that wasn’t running. As he was diagnosing the situation, he quickly found that the battery was dead. A dead battery won’t start a car. A car battery can be recharged, but a dead battery can’t charge a dead battery. Do you feel like your battery needs a recharge?

During the holidays, we are constantly running, our stress levels are raised, and after the season is over, we just feel depleted. A dead battery can’t charge a dead battery. I’ve found that I can do certain things throughout the holiday season to help keep me from becoming depleted. I deliberately eat healthy meals, take time to decompress from the holiday chaos—which means telling people no—and read the Word. God created our bodies and minds in His image, so we should care for them (Genesis 1:27).

Eating less sugar helps my body stay healthy. While I love to indulge in the sugary delights of the holidays, I try to pick just one thing at each event instead of eating a little of everything. Some nights, I just choose fruit and veggies instead of allowing the sugary desserts to lure me in. Drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated also helps keep my body physically healthy, as does getting adequate sleep.

Mental exhaustion happens to us all. The holidays seem to be a time when we are more resigned to feeling exhausted. The demands of the holidays push us to our limits and cause us mental anguish. While we want to serve others, we must find a balance between joyfully serving and being taken advantage of. When our battery is dead and no one is around to help recharge us, we should look at our circle and prioritize spending time with the ones who help jumpstart us when needed, not just the ones who deplete us.

Spiritually, we can grow and mature in our faith by spending more time in the Word. It’s important to continuously recharge yourself through scripture

These three verses bring me encouragement and help to recharge my “battery”.

“Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28 NLT).

Jesus never intended for us to carry the heavy loads but offers us the chance to unburden ourselves and rest in Him. He’s doing all the heavy lifting.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.” (Proverbs 3:5-6 NLT).

When we trust the Lord, we stop trying to control situations and stop depending on our limited strengths and abilities. When we allow God to take over, His abilities and strength are far greater than anything we can imagine.

“I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 15:13 NLT).

We have hope because we have Jesus. We have joy and peace because we trust the Lord. When we stop worrying and fretting, turning our burdens and cares to God, we find peace and joy. As I’ve allowed myself to stop trying to do everything on my own and allow God to be in control, releasing things to Him, I’ve found more peace and more joy because I know He’s handling them.

My son got the car running again; it just needed a jumpstart and a recharge. He advised the owner to give it regular maintenance or to call him to help her keep it in proper running order. If we neglect to care for ourselves regularly (physically, mentally, and spiritually), we might find ourselves in need of a charge or even dealing with a dead battery. I pray this holiday season you’ll take a minute to sit and be still, assessing your battery to see if it needs to be recharged. We are called to build the Kingdom, but we can’t if our batteries are depleted.

Lord, thank you for creating us in your image. May we take care of the bodies you’ve given us by eating healthy, resting, and caring for our mental and spiritual needs. May we continue to build your Kingdom by telling your story today and in the coming new year. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

CLICK ON BOOK PHOTO TO FIND THIS BOOK ON AMAZON.

Photographer: Shara Buler-Repka

Shara Bueler-Repka is enjoying life as a singer/ songwriter/recording artist, freelance writer, and awardwinning author. She and her husband, Bruce, live in their living quarters horse trailer and call “home” wherever their rig is parked. Their mailbase, however, is Hallettsville, Texas. She loves sharing God’s Word through music with her husband, riding their horses (aka The Boys) in the backcountry, and writing about God’s grace in their various adventures on the trail less traveled.

No Way Out?

By Shara Bueler-Repka

Funny how thoughts of past adventures drift into your memory when you need encouragement. many people nowadays are facing pretty hefty challenges. our family is no exception. however, this verse keeps coming to mind: “and they overcame him [satan] by the blood of the lamb [jesus] and by the word of their testimony…” (revelation 12:11, nkjv).

In tough times, i am comforted when i reflect on all the times god has shown himself faithful in this adventure called life. and frankly, i can’t recall any time he has let us down. through illness challenges (both human and horse), lack challenges (no truck), family challenges, on the-road challenges, ministry challenges, people packaged with challenges, etc., there have always been answers…aka hope. answers come in ways we expect or ways we never thought of (and every variation in between), but all answers come from a god who is incredibly kind and full of wisdom.

So, i have to remind myself of his faithful goodness with each challenge that rears up: i try to focus on the faith of a good report, even when i can’t clearly see the outcome; and i listen to the one who makes all things possible, even when there seems to be no way out.

The following simple yet profound testimony insists on making a recurring appearance in my thoughts. it reminds me of god’s grace and power, and i figured it may encourage you, too:

Back in 2005, before our living-in-our-horse-trailer days, bruce, my husband, and i loaded up my big 4x4 truck with snacks, sleeping bags, and a pup tent, and took off across the country. we sing/play christian country music, so concerts were scheduled along the way during our round trip from texas to wisconsin to california and back to texas again.

Bruce and i love to camp in and explore national and state parks. so after our concerts in wisconsin, we set out for the badlands national park in south dakota. as we traveled through the badlands, we gaped at the strange, unearthly appearance of the landscape. it looked like a star wars movie set!

We stopped and snapped pictures, enjoying this unfamiliar “moon” scape. however, we grew increasingly wary of the skies and the ominous storm brewing in the distance. but the storm seemed far off and was actually quite beautiful to watch, with its swirling clouds and lightning show.

We made our way through the hills and down into a valley, keeping an eye out for a campground sign. A bison stampede delayed us a bit, so it was rather late by the time we spotted the campground entrance. (That’s a cool story for another time.)

Creeping through a sleeping campground is a tad difficult in a diesel truck, but we trekked to the far end of the place, away from the other campers.

We pitched our tent and prepared for a good night’s sleep. Glancing at the skies again, we caught our breath— the humongous thunderstorm we had been watching changed course and headed straight at us! There was no way out. We hunkered down in our tiny nylon tent and listened as the rumble of thunder drew closer. Now in South Dakota, there’s A LOT of open ground. And here we sat in our flimsy tent with little to no

protection. The line of that storm stretched so wide, there was no way it would miss us. About the only thing we could do was pray. And pray we did! We rebuked that storm in the Name of Jesus, then prayed and thanked the Lord for protecting us (albeit through heavily beating hearts).

We tried not to count the seconds between the flashes of lightning and the claps of thunder, but it was hard to ignore. They came together almost as one. We prayed harder, thanking God again for our protection and that the storm had no authority here.

Suddenly, a powerful wind arose…blowing AGAINST the storm! My first thought was the verse in Psalms: “He makes His angels winds.” I told Bruce.

“Hey! The Holy Spirit just told me the same thing!” he said.

As we breathed a sigh of relief, the storm stopped within a short distance of our camp and blew around the campground in a circle. (Psalm 104:4)

As the thunder continued to roll and the lightning danced, we peeked out of our tent flap. Directly above, stars twinkled in a canopy of clear, black sky.

Safe and dry, we settled in for that good night’s rest.

(For You have been a strength to the poor, a strength to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shade from the heat; For the blast of the terrible ones is as a storm against the wall (Isaiah 25:4, NKJV).

Linda Tack McDougal, M.A.

Licensed Clinical Prof. Counselor

Cecil County School-Based Therapist

Upper Bay Counseling & Support Services, Inc.

“Cease From That Stinkin Thinkin”

By Linda McDougal, LCPC

Corrie ten Boom said, “Worry is like a rocking chair; it keeps you busy but doesn’t bring you farther.”

Women in my family act like this metaphor: they are overly concerned with the ‘what-ifs’of life, rehearsing the worst case scenario - engaging in exhausting mental gymnastics that do not lead to any true resolution.

Despite my mother as a psychiatric nurse for sixty years (and trying to help others with similar struggles), she has seemingly never conquered how to control her inner distress; she is dependent on her night-time sleeping pills - the only thing she has found that quiets down the panic.

When my grandmother was living, I recall my Aunt telling haunting stories of how doctors (in the early 1930’s) treated Grammy’s debilitating depression with shock treatments. My story isn’t much different. At the age of twenty-seven, plagued with mental and emotional torment, I found myself unable to properly care for my two young boys. My husband reluctantly took me to a psychiatrist.

I was prescribed anti-depressants in hopes the pills would jolt me out of my dreary den, but the meds made me deathly ill. I couldn’t stomach them.

On a more positive note, a turning point for me occurred when my faithful prayer partner walked right into my bedroom and recited the scripture from 2nd Timothy 1:7.

She personalized this biblical exhortation by declaring, “Linda, “God did not give you a spirit of fear. He has given you spirit of power and of love and of a calm and well-balanced mind and discipline and self-control. Now get out of that bed! (AMP)

Heeding my friends encouragement to apprehend inner peace, I started to read the Bible daily, but I still hit bumps in the road.

Since I was too sad to leave my bed, the only solace for me was to watch Christian television; my toddlers at my feet -happily playing with their toys.

It was here that I found Joyce Meyers, a TV personality.

Some would call her a celebrity, but I truly felt as if she was personally teaching me from her book “The Battlefield of the Mind”

I remember devouring Joyce’s biblical content like it was yesterday. I underlined and highlighted eye-opening truth on almost every page.

As a baby Christian, I was clueless about the importance of having a sanctified thought life.

Through Joyce’s anecdotal examples, I was able to start putting 2nd Corinthians 10:5 in practice, “to take every thought captive as it exalts itself above the Lord.

Coming from a Christian family and attending church regularly as a child, I can’t recall anyone teaching that worrying was a sin.

Through Joyce’s exhortation, I was challenged to recognize my “natural” (carnal) mind as it opposed the Mind of the Spirit of God

I welcomed what this gifted teacher taught from 1st Peter 5:7.

Learning to “Walk in the Spirit, “ I began to discern the still small voice of God and not take the bait of the enemy.

Through Joyce’s insight, I grasped how to exercise my will over the thoughts of my mind - a lesson my mother and grandmother never learned.

Unlike my maternal predecessors, I was learning how to “cast my cares onto the Lord.”

Like Joyce, who was a forerunner in her family, I believe I am breaking the chokehold of fear, leaving a lasting mark on my adult children so they can be containers of God’s peace.

December Book Suggestions!

By Karen Ruhl

Click on the book and support our local writers.

I am so happy to be able to present these six books to you. Richard and Nancy’s books are great children’s books. I encourage you to purchase them for your children for Christmas.

Squack is a great series about a little mischevious squirrel. Your kids will laugh and also learn lessons as Squack gets himself in dangerous places. I highly recommend getting all three!

As former owner and creative director of two advertising agencies, Linda has years of experience creating a public impression of a product through the media using television commercials, radio and print advertising, press releases, and marketing campaigns.

Linda has been a caregiver for her son; a volunteer who travelled to Egypt and helped Sudanese refugees; a volunteer for a local food ministry, and a Creative Writing teacher for the Arts and Humanities Council of Tulsa for their Artists in the Schools program.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

By Linda Castro

“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart;” ~ (Jeremiah 1:5a)

Sometimes when we think of birthdays, we may think of gifts and celebrations, but we may not always think of the greatest birthday gift of all times, the gift of the birth of Jesus! The Bible tells us “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, “ - (James 1:17a) The gift of Jesus is actually the entrance of God into human form. Jesus was referred to as “Emmanuel” which means “God is with us”. Perhaps the true meaning of Christmas may be misunderstood among all the tinsel and sales. Some people may think of Christmas as a time of business profits. Others may only see the celebration and decorations. Still others may ask “Where is this Prince of Peace in a world filled with so much public unrest?”

The answer to all these various concerns is simply “Put Jesus First”. We have all heard and studied of the birth of Jesus, being born in Bethlehem, the shepherds seeing the star in the sky, and the angels singing. But how many of us in today’s troubled world have set apart a separate time of worship, just for the birthday of Jesus? In America, we have chosen December 25th as the day we celebrate the birth of Jesus. The word “Christmas” is not in the Bible but is derived from a phrase “Cristes Maesse” meaning “Christ’s Mass” a special worship service held in honor of Jesus birth.

As our own birthdays come and go, we are reminded of God’s Word Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” — (Psalms 90:12 ). We are not only to think of ourselves on our birthdays, but also of others. “Not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”(Philippians 2:4). Some families may have a birthday dinner visiting and laughing with everyone in the joy of the Lord. Some may only send a card in the mail. Some may forget altogether. But God remembers. He created each of us for a purpose and, if we have repented and chosen Jesus as our Lord and Savior, we have secured our place in God’s family. The Lord sent His Angel to shepherds in

a field to announce the birth of Jesus rather than to a King sitting on a throne in luxury. Another example of Jesus’ humble beginnings. The Angel said to the shepherds: “Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall ve to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.”(Luke 2:10-11). Then the sky was full of Angels singing!

Can you imagine the thoughts of the shepherds who were just out in the field taking care of their sheep?! Then, they were personally chosen by God to see baby Jesus lying in a manger and then tasked to tell everyone of the birth of God’s own Son! What a responsibility! What a birthday!

And to everyone on your birthday, no matter when it is, no matter if you are young or older, this is a Happy Birthday blessing to you: “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious -(Numbers 6:24-26). to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace. Happy Birthday!

Jodie Glardon

In Remembrance of a Loved One

Jodie Glardon is a college student and writer. She won several poetry contests as a child, and her more recent work has appeared in the Pure In Heart magazine. In her spare time, Jodie enjoys reading, hiking, crochet, and piano.

You’ll never hurt again; you’ll never cry or weep, You left this world a legacy our grieving hearts will keep. It still felt way too soon, although it happened slow. But God knows best—He took His child, relieving you from woe.

Sometimes I hear your voice, and think that you are near. I wonder what you would be saying if you were still here. No bitterness I hold; fond memories I retrieve Of who you were, and what you represented and believed.

I know you were not perfect; no one mortal is. But every day, so trustfully, you put your hand in His. Your radiant smile, bright eyes, the million prayers you asked Convinced us all that, though you’re gone, this heartbreak cannot last.

Though frames return to dust, your soul will be set free To fly on wings to heaven where you’ll spend eternity. God gave you a special gift of inspiring us anew I will pass on that gift received—in loving memory of you.

Passage of Time

There is no time for arrogance, vindictiveness or guile; Our lives are short, thus must be trod with virtue on each mile. There is no time for unbelief; embrace the blessed Fount. Our days are numbered on this earth—to what will they amount?

There is no time for idleness, for worldly pursuits of fun; The sands of time run out to bring lost sheep toward Christ the Son. Remember this each closing day, lest wisdom you depart. Entrust to God your future now—let faith renew your heart.

Richard D. Waters lives in Hudson, North Caroline. He is a Youth Director at Calvary Advent Christian Church. He loves working with children and youth. His heart is to teach them about Jesus, and how Jesus loves them.

Richard is a writer and will have his newest book published very soon!

“Be The Christ In Christmas”

By Richard D. Waters

“For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers.”

Romans 8:29

As I was writing my latest children’s book, “Corn Dog Capers: The Christmas Mission,” I felt the Lord speak something to me. Every year around this time, people start arguing about the word “Christmas.” To just say “Happy Holidays” or “Merry X-Mas.” It is a good argument to preach, “Keep Christ in Christmas.” We should never take it out. Who is it hurting? No one. But this seems to be the argument at this time of year. My message this Christmas seems to be a little bit deeper than that. At the end of my latest book I mentioned earlier, little Billy says something to his dad. He says, “Let’s be the Christ in Christmas.” This had to be the Lord typing those words. Yes, we can argue till we are blue in the face, but until we show Jesus through our words and actions, none of it is going to make an impact. None of it will matter unless we are Jesus to this lost and dying world.

“And he said to them, “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.”

Mark 16:15

“The Bible is not the light of the world, it is the light of the Church. But the world does not read the Bible, the world reads Christians! “You are the light of the world.”Charles Spurgeon

We are to go out and share Jesus in Word and Deed. We are called to be the light of the world. We are called to draw people to Christ, not drive them away. I know we’re not perfect people, but so many times we tear down people with our words and how we treat them. People who are not Christians, are acting like they should because they don’t know better. We should not be surprised by their actions. What we should do is show them Jesus. Yes, tell them the truth. But we don’t have to be jerks about it. We can be humble and kind. Jesus spoke truth to people, but He was humble in His approach. Are we? Instead of fighting so hard to keep Christ in Christmas, how about we be the Christ in Christmas.

Mitchell Milch began to live a Christ-centered life about four years ago. He is a retired psychotherapist who while he lived as an agnostic, wrote a memoir and a host of educational articles for therapists and consumers of treatment services. These days Mitchell writes articles that marry conventional psychological principles and Christian wisdom. He is a member of The West Side Presbyterian Church in Ridgewood, NJ where he participates in multiple groups and sings in West Side’s worship band.

A Ludicrous Bump in the Road on the Way to Understanding God’s Will for Me

Mitchell Milch

James 4:11–12 (NIV)

“Brothers and sisters, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against a brother or sister or judges them speaks against the law and judges it. ... There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy. But you—who are you to judge your neighbor?”

If God alone has the authority to judge hearts and souls, then I do much overstepping of my bounds. I’d like you to believe that my slanderous inclinations are mitigated by the self-restraint I demonstrate not to voice them. However, my slanderous ruminations can put me at odds over freely loving my neighbors as God commands me to do. In the throes of being flooded by feelings of anger, envy, contempt and vengeance, I’m not infrequently arrogant in my certainty that the objects of my hostility are worthy of my enmity. I lose my ability to recognize that my harsh judgments are presided over by the timeless voice of “little me” futilely up in arms. In these moments, my targets are in truth proxies for earlier figures in my life whose attacks I felt helpless but to internalize and feel horrible about. This regressed iteration of me is a timeless stranger to forgiveness.

A recent illustration of me at my God-forsaking worst took place among a group of Christian peers. I felt very close to letting one member have a huge piece of my mind. I was so riled up by an irresponsible and unsubstantiated supposition that this member was unfairly, the “favored son” of the group’s leader, that I could not muster any curiosity into what was going on with me. At some point I silently asked God to release me from my hurt locker of emotions and offer me a hint about what He possibly hoped for me to learn from this encounter. Within seconds, my ire drained away. I understood that “little me” demanded a larger role that was not in the cards. Seen through the lens of my past, I was re-living unresolved rivalrous feelings toward both my Dad and older brother. These feelings were displaced and I indicted the leader for not valuing me sufficiently. My self-esteem took a huge hit. In truth, when I came to my “sanctified senses” I was confident that God had prescribed this role for me to learn to humbly cherish it. With egg on my face, I admitted to myself that the group leader also cherished my not so meager contributions. A weight lifted off my shoulders.

Has God ever orchestrated such a ludicrous growth opportunity for you?

Michael J. Shepherd

**** Evangelist: Michael J. Shepherd: (Coordinator):

**** (Facebook): Church Revival Meetings of America:

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**** Nelson County Independent

Baptist Church: (Church Members):

**** United States Army Reserve Veteran:

**** Honorable-Discharge: (1982 –1989):

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**** (Master Printer Certified):

**** Married:

**** Mary Ann Shepherd:

**** Four-Grown Children:

**** Born-Again Christian (Since 1990):

**** Ordained into the Gospel Ministry (2011):

**** Written and Published: (22-Books):

A-Christian-Story-In-Poem

Many years ago; God gave me a special-gift, and in these hours of our lives, we live and we give, to each other, on our way:

** Time has been good to me and you, and your eyes are bright, with beauty, and in these hours, that we live, I will live them with you:

These years are passing-away, and days of sorrow, and sadness we have been, and in these days ahead, I will live them with you:

Our lives, we live together, as I remember days of love and laughter, and when sickness had me down, and you where my crown, and in these days, we live-together: “I Still Remember Those Days in November!”

** (A Bible Scripture of Encouragement for Men: When Husbands need to Remember, the Wife, that the Lord, has given them): Proverbs 22: 18): Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favor of the Lord:

(For the Water in the Well)!

By Michael J. Shepherd: (2).

(A-Christian-Story-In-Poem):

I was walking to the well to fetch some-water, while I was gazing at the green-forest, and the trees, the birds and the bees were singing their-songs, and I asked the Lord? To help me be strong!

** While I was fetching water from the well, I could hear old-man-river running-strong, and while I was fetching water from the old-well, I seen my face in the water, in the well, and I laughed and I giggled, and I promised myself, I would never-tell?

While I was walking-home, with buckets of water in my hands, the sunlight on the green-trees where bright, as I watched two-bears in the Forest play and fight. I could see the handy-works of God; In Plain-Sight!

While I continued walking on my way home, I thought upon the Lord, as I could hear my momma-singing, and the dinner bell-ringing, I looked-up to the sky. And, I Praised the Lord! “For the Water in the Well!”

** (A Bible Scripture of Hope and Encouragement:About the Promises of God):

(Psalm 150: 6): Let everything that hath breath praise the Lord. Praise ye the Lord!

By the Brush in God’s Hands!

By Michael J. Shepherd: (3).

(A-Christian-Story-In-Poem):

I Stand Amazed! At the scenery; In which, by the beauty of God’s Creation, while being overtaken, by the seasons of color, and care, as the beauty of God’s Creation, cause’s me to gasp for air:

I Stand Amazed! At the beauty of God, that paints a blue and white sky, by rain, or by snow; and in God’s plans, He paints the earth, by the beauty of His hands:

I Stand Amazed! At the beauty of God, and by His design, the mountain’s turn brown, and then turn white, and then turns Green, and by the hand of God, a picture of great beauty overwhelms my eyes:

I Stand Amazed! At God’s beauty, and by the brush of my Father’s hand, He paints colorful-pictures of beauty and grace, and I stand amazed! “By the Brush in God’s Hands:”

** (A Bible Scripture of Encouragement: - When we behold the Beauty of God’s Hands on the Sky):

Genesis 1: 31): And God saw everything that he had made, and, behold, it was very good. And the evening and the morning were the sixth-day:

O’ Lord! Guide My Hands!

By Michael J. Shepherd: (4).

(A-Christian-Story-In-Poem):

O’ Lord! Guide My Mind: That my thoughts in my mind, will be in Your time, and those words on paper, will give You glory, and I will be faithful to tell Your Story!

O’ Lord! Guide My Heart: That the will of my heart, will be the will of Your heart, as I write about my heart that has been-broken, I will exalt Thy Words! That Thou hath Spoken!

O’ Lord! Guide My Wayward-Soul! That my soul will be faithful, and true, as I write about my temptations, and my trails, and my terrors? Help Me O’ Lord! To not live in Error!

O’ Lord-I ask You! To guide my mind, and to guide my heart, and to guide my wayward-soul, O’ Lord-Help me to take a Stand! “O’ Lord! Guide My Hands!”

Lisa Pritchard lives on the East Coast, where she drafts books, devotions, articles, and poetry. Two years ago, God opened doors to the writing world, and she hasn’t looked back. She speaks in online presentations and co-leads book studies with an international prayer group. She is a member of Word Weavers, AWSA, and ACFW, and is a Speak Up-certified speaker. Her children’s picture book, Dirt Dog, and a light romance for a beach anthology will be released (Spring 2026). She is writing a Psalms Bible study and co-authoring a chapter book series. Three of her works were published in El Raah: The God Who Shepherds (2024) and Glimpses of God in Nature (2025). She is a contributing writer for AWSA’s Arise Daily for November and December 2025. Her motivation is to further God’s kingdom and give Him glory. Learn more at www.praying-prodigals.com.

Love Our Fellow Americans

Lisa Pritchard

What’s Happening?

This morning, as I prepared for After God’s Own Heart (a Bible study available on my website: www. Praying-Prodigals.com), I read Psalm 17. I immediately compared what David lived through thousands of years ago with what we experience today. The news overflows with profane verbal wars, name-calling, death threats, physical encounters, and murderous acts by those who disapprove of the opposition’s beliefs or actions. There is no conscience, no filter, and no holds barred. On the contrary, nearly every day, someone new encourages more people to do the same.

How Do We Return

Why? No one gets their way 100% of the time. It’s wrong to expect it because that doesn’t reflect a caring attitude toward others’ needs. Does equality only apply when it concerns our own desires or beliefs? Have we lost basic consideration and empathy for others? Do we have no compassion, to the point of ravaging people’s reputation with words or their lives with harm and even murder? How did we get here? And the larger question is: How do we return to loving our fellow man, our fellow Americans, neighbors, friends, coworkers, and family members?

How Do We Return

David Didn’t Match Evil with Evil

David was concerned for his life at various times from different people. Those who claimed to be friends, and even his own son, Absalom, opposed him, tracked him, and wanted to kill him. Why? Some motivations include jealousy and desire for power, fueled by hearts filled with evil. This is the crucial part of David’s historical account that we cannot miss. David didn’t attack Saul even though Saul wanted David dead and actively pursued that end. David didn’t kill Absalom. In fact, he also directed Joab not to kill Absalom. Joab didn’t adhere to David’s wishes and killed him anyway. But the point is this: David didn’t match evil with evil. Instead, he cried out to God for protection, help, rescue, and refuge. David left the fate of his enemies in the hands and plans of the Lord, and cried out to God to examine his heart. He desired the promise of eternity in heaven over temporary worldly victory.

David didn’t match evil with evil.

As we know, David wasn’t a perfect man. He committed glaring atrocities, but he suffered consequences, repented, and was considered a man After God’s Own Heart. None of us is sinless, but we can be so much better than we are right now.

Pursue God’s Own Heart

As harsh, brutal words increase, more people engage in unacceptable behavior. I can judge or change only myself. But it is our responsibility, as Christians, to remind one another to adhere to God’s expectations of us. If we follow David’s example and pursue God’s Own Heart, HE will fill us with His Spirit and equip us to resist retaliation. Listen for His voice of peace and love.

Reflection

These Scripture references remind us how we should respond. Please take a few minutes to meditate on them and encourage others to do the same. One by one, we can make a difference.

Look up 1 Peter 3:9, Romans 12:17 and 21. How do they relate to David’s response to opposition and teach us about how we need to respond?

What does this verse mean to Christians? Deuteronomy 32:35

Read this verse. Does this verse bring you comfort? Why or why not?

Psalm 56:8

Karen Bowling holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology for Christian Counseling from Liberty University as well as a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theology from Bible Faith Global University. She currently ministers to others through the Speak Words of Faith website (speakwordsoffaith.com) where she maintains a weekly blog. She has a strong passion for women’s ministry, and a strong desire to see women healed, delivered, and set free from their emotional wounds from the past.

Why Are We Doing This?

Karen Bowling

The Christmas season comes with so many pressures. Who do we buy for? Is it in stock? Will it get there in time? Is it safe to travel? Do I want to travel? Then it becomes about who to spend it with, and all of the other endless distractions. It seems like we step into our flesh the day after Thanksgiving and the world is coming at us from every direction. It’s really funny how even as Christians, it is easy to fall prey to the worldly pressures of the holidays. Lord knows that we have not arrived and are not immune. It is easy to forget the “why.” Why are we doing any of this? Are we celebrating the worldly holiday or Jesus? For those who do not know the Lord — what good is giving a gift if it has nothing to do with love?

At the end of 2019, the Holy Spirit gave me a song, which serves as a good reminder for me as I enter into this season. It’s called “I Never Knew.” The song came about because i volunteered to submit a poem for our church’s coffee house Christmas event. As I was driving to work a few days later with the submission deadline looming, I was struggling to write a poem about Christmas. I was actually going to withdraw from participating. So, as I was driving, I said, “Lord, there is nothing that I can say that has not been said. If you want me to participate, then give me the words.” All of a sudden, I heard, “Look at the baby.” I was like, “What?” Then it hit me. I was looking at the adult Jesus and it never occurred to me to look at the baby Jesus! What followed was a vision where I was looking over the shoulders of a gathering of people who were gazing upon a baby. My sense was that I was looking over the heads of the three wise men. I started crying and all I could say was, “I never knew…” then I just started singing and the words just kept pouring out. My soul and spirit just cried out for this fragile child who would deliver me ¬— a child that would pay the price for my sin, with His life. Isn’t God amazing?

I Never Knew

I never knew there’d be a baby, who would love and comfort me. That there’d be a baby, who would come and rescue me. A tiny, little baby, who would set the whole world free. I never knew… I never knew I never knew there’d be a baby, who’d provide for all my needs. That there’d be a baby, who would shield me from my enemies. A precious innocent baby, who would heal and set me free. I never knew… I never knew

He’s the light of the world, Our whole hope rests in He. He’s the truth and the life, Salvation for you and me.

I never knew there’d be a baby, who would support and carry me. That there’d be a baby, who would wash my sin from me. A gentle, smiling baby, who would pay the price for me. I never knew… I never knew

I never knew there’d be a baby, who’d leave his herd and search for me. That there’d be a baby, who would always forgive me.

Oh lovely, beautiful baby, I was blind - You helped me see. I never knew… I never knew

He’s the light of the world, Our whole hope rests in He. He’s the truth and the life, Salvation for you and me.

A tiny little baby, (Yeah)

Precious innocent baby, (Yeah) Lovely, beautiful baby, I know. I know. I know. I know.

Lord, please help us to train our eyes on you, even in the midst of the endless distractions. Let our hearts and our minds remember all that You have done for us. Let us remember Your faithfulness and Your enduring love for us. Lord, You gave Your life so that we would have life! Jesus, at the moment of Your conception, and as You started to develop in Mary’s womb, our redemption had begun. At the moment that You took Your first earthly breath, uttering the cry of a newborn, our redemption was sealed. Lord all praise and glory to you!

Photo by Karen Ruhl 2025

Faith On Every Corner Publishing

We have read over 160 books and offered our reviews in issues of Faith On Every Corner. On this journey, we have met many wonderful writers who have experienced the trials and pitfalls of becoming published authors. We first learned of a woman who wrote a beautiful book, only to be taken advantage of by an unscrupulous publisher. She and her husband lost thousands of dollars they could ill afford to lose. We helped her republish her book while she kept all rights to her work. Since then, we have found that there are many writers who shared her terrible experiences.

In response, the team at Faith On Every Corner developed a very affordable package of services for writers who would like to publish their book. Our knowledge and experience includes:

• Coaching and Mentoring

• Book Concept and Development

• Editing (all levels)

• Proofreading

• Cover Design, Graphics, and Layout

• Formatting for Publishing

• Publishing (Amazon, Ingram Spark, Etc.)

• Marketing and Advertising

• Author Platform

• Social Media Management

• The Faith On Every Corner Publishing Imprint

• Much more…

For a free consultation and to find out how we can best be of service to you, please contact us at: team@faithoneverycorner. com

Publisher & Editor in Chief: Karen Ruhl

Photography: Karen Ruhl (unless otherwise credited)

Staff Writers: Karen Ruhl

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Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007, 2013 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

Scripture quotations marked (NIV) are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version ®, NIV ®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. www.zondervan.com. The “NIV” and “New International Version” are trademarks registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Biblica, Inc. ™

Scripture quotations marked (CSB) taken from The Christian Standard Bible. Copyright © 2017 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Christian Standard Bible®, and CSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers, all rights reserved.

Scripture quotations marked (KJV) taken from The King James Bible, public domain.