Issuu

Photo by Award Winning

Sonia Sousa

Award Winning Photographer: Sonia Sousa

Sonia Sousa - Photographer, Writer, Content Creator, Digital Storyteller

Hometown: Stuart, Florida

My interest in photography sparked during the years of my early twenties. This led to experimenting with my father’s 35mm Mamiya film cameras and processing Kodachrome film in the darkroom of my parents’ printing and typography business. I became further intrigued by the results of the film development process and manipulating the highlight and shadow areas of the film to achieve incredible results. Each strip of film was pinned to a line to dry, backlit by the red darkroom lights.

Fast forward to the digital age where I took those self-taught basics and applied them to the digital post-processing of the images I capture out in the field, essentially creating unique art. With a keen eye for composition, my personal style is detailed and colorful, capturing the intrinsic beauty of the varied subjects in front of my lens.

My time is well-balanced between family, friends, working full time and as n active Board member for Audubon of Martin County, Treasure Coast Shorebird Alliance volunteer, Treasure Coast Photography Group and the Treasure Coast Photography Center. Through all of this, there is still time to allocate towards photographing nature’s most memorable moments.

“Passionate about creating art through my lens - A little obsessed with birds.”

Website: soniasousa.com

Instagram: @soniasousaphotography

All photographs are available for purchase! Custom sizing to fit your space and in a variety of finishing choices: A framed and matted photographic print, high gloss metal print or canvas. Please send me an email with what you have in mind to marketingbysonia@gmail.com

Note From Karen Ruhl, Editor

March is here, let’s hope it marches in good weather, warm and not too wet!

This past year has been a long one. It was filled with love, family, and friendship but also a trying time as I live my life without my life partner Craig. The good news is, we know where he is and who he is with. Rest in peace, Craig. <3

I would love to hear from our readers, and if you like to write, send an article or request to me at Team@FaithOnEveryCorner.com.

I have a request, would you please share our magazine with your family and friends and let’s get the word out as far and wide as we can.

Thank you, I am praying for you all, Karen Team@faithoneverycorner.com

Karen Ruhl Photographer

I am still praying for Lake Lure, Chimney Rock, Swananoa and so many places that were almost wiped out when the hurricane hit.

People are still without homes, living in tents, and getting by, day by day.

Please join me in praying for NC, KY, TN, VA, all who have been hit by major floods and bad weather.

I have to laugh, look at that trim job on his bangs. Sorry, he needed it! My grandson had a wonderful Valentine’s Day and is one happy little boy. <3

COVER AND PHOTOS By Sonia Sousa

Cherished and Refreshing ... by John Alexander ... Pages 6-7

Marching Ducks In A Row ... by Melissa Henderson ... Pages 8-9

The Gentle Whisper ... by Yvonne M. Morgan ... Pages 10-11

Nothing But Faith ... Gina Meredith.. Page 12-13

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

Meditating In His Word ... by Irene Surya ... Page 16

Oh Holy, One ... by Laurie Glass ... Page 17

When God Speaks To Us ... by Donna J. Miller ... Pages 18-19

But God .... by Nicole Byrum ... Pages 20-21

God Fights Your Battles ... by Brianna Barrett ... Pages 22-23

Poetry ... by Mike Hall ... Pages 24-25

Easter Poem ... David Sowers ... Page 26-27

The Art of the Ear-When God Speaks ... Shara Bueler Repka ... Pages 28-29

What A Difference A Year Makes.... by Karen Ruhl ... Pages 30-31 ... Pages 32-33

Sending love in this the “Love” month. Blessings to you all.

Making A Turn ... by Linda Castro ... Pages 34-35

Book Review ... Pages 36-37

A Common Ground Of Understanding Begins With Fleshing Out The Literal ... by Mitchell Milch ... Pages 38-39 Road Trippin’ ... by Karen Ruhl ... Pages 40-41

March Comes in Like a Lion...And Leaves Like a Lamb ... by Brenda McDaniel ... Page 42

The Wedding Dress ... by Pamela McCormick ... Page 44 But God ... by Nicole Byrum ...

Cherished and Refreshing

Winter months will soon be transitioning into spring and the ground will receive the much-needed spring rain to prepare for the long summer to follow. Like the soil, we need water not only for our body, but also for our soul. I find that my soul flourishes if I drink often and deeply from the well of God’s word. I pray you do as well. I’ve chosen three poems this month to share the joy of the refreshing water that I cherish available to us who thirst.

Blessings, John Alexander QuietTimeRhymes.com

REFRESHING WATER

Refreshing Water Lord fill my glass, my heart today, Cool water, Lord, to start my day, Refreshing words I need to hear, The words of life so fresh and clear. I pray my thirsty soul will drink, Allow my mind to ponder, think, Absorb the truths the words convey, Inside my heart find words to say. Then help me Lord to write and share, Find loving ways to show I care.

I pray that as I form each phase, May they be clear, no fog or haze. Lord may Your water overflow, Help seeds to sprout, and flowers grow.

CLEAR WATER

I’m blessed every morning to read in God’s Word. I pray my heart listens; God’s message is heard. I pray for new vistas that I need to see. I pray that God’s blessings are flowing through me. God’s Word is clear water that quenches our thirst, A spring in the midst of a drought at its worst. Surrounded by chaos, when good is called bad, Confusion is raging, the world has gone mad. I’m only one voice, Lord, but willing to share The love that’s inside me, make others aware

Of Your love and compassion, just ask and believe. You provide living water for us to receive. May those hungry and thirsty in spirit today, Come eat at Your table and not turn away.

CHERISH AND SHARE

I pray that my heart’s never callous or cold, That my heart can stay young though my body grows old. May my heartstrings keep sharing words cherished and dear, May I always keep listening, God’s Spirit draws near.

Lord help my heart thrive on the words that You share. Through your Spirit reveal them so I am aware. Help me to hear as I read, and I pray.

Provide me the manna I need for today.

I need Your Word daily to grow and to learn, Your Spirit inside me to help me discern. I read through Your scriptures, still fresh and alive, A welcomed oasis I need to survive.

Lord help me to share as I’m penning each rhyme In the still of the morn, cherished moments in time.

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

Marching Ducks in a Row

By Melissa Henderson

Playing follow-the-leader is a fun activity for folks of all ages. Recently, while volunteering at a preschool, I read several books and noticed the young ones were getting restless. I’ve learned that the preschoolers like to move. Yes, they sit still for a story or two. Then, they like to move. My experience with teaching preschool reminded me of how the children follow the leader. One fun way to stand up and shake out the wiggles is to pretend to be “marching ducks in a row”.

“Everyone stand. Arms at your sides. Let’s go!” The preschoolers followed my lead around the classroom. I began saying “March, march, march, we’re ducks in a row. March, march, march, stomp our feet. Let’s go!” Silly rhymes can bring many giggles. The class of 12 children followed me from one side of the room to the other. We stayed in a line and pretended to be ducks in a row.

“Quack, quack, quack.” We shouted. Soon, the laughter couldn’t be contained. We were making zig-zag lines while attempting to stay together. At that point, I halted the activity. Sitting back on the floor, I asked everyone to breathe in and out. Next, we played a game of exercise. “Hands in the air, hands on the head, shoulder rolls, and find your knees.”

I’m always amazed at the energy and joy that the children express. Sometimes a child may not feel well and decide to sit on the side and watch. That’s okay. I understand. We must listen to our bodies and rest when needed.

As Spring arrives, ducks and geese gather near the neighborhood ponds. The “fuzzies”, as we call them, stay close to their parents. The babies follow when the parents give instructions.

These scenarios remind me of how we are called to follow God and not the world. Many things will tempt us and try to get our attention. Yet, God is always with us, reminding us of His love and forgiveness. Things that seem too good to be true usually are not what God wants for us.

How do we discern what to follow and what to ignore? Prayer. Time shared with God will bring answers. Pray for wisdom, discernment, and revelation. Pray for God’s hedge of protection over each decision.

Although there will be times of failure, God never leaves. He knows our human nature will cause us to fail in some areas. When we fall short of what God has planned, we can go to Him in prayer. Ask for His guidance. Give thanks for His love and forgiveness.

Before following the crowd and marching like ducks in a row, pray. Seek His wisdom.

How do you discern God’s plan for your life? Share and encourage others.

Blessings, 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)

The Gentle Whisper

By Yvonne M. Morgan

“11 The Lord said, ‘Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the Lord, for the Lord is about to pass by. Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake. 12 After the earthquake came a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper.’” 1 Kings 19:11-12 (NIV).

How are your listening skills? I know I get easily distracted when trying to listen to someone. Or, in my mind, I am already trying to form my response to the person instead of just listening to them. And, I don’t think I am alone with these issues. As a society, I think we have lost some of our abilities to listen well. But it is not unexpected because we filled our world with constant noises that compete for our attention.

Whisper

My mother-in-law taught school, and she used to say that if you want to get someone’s attention, whisper. She employed this technique in her classroom and with my children, and it worked. I think people associate whispers with a hidden message, so with their curiosity piqued, then employed their best listening skills.

I love the above verse from 1 Kings because it speaks volumes to me about all the distractions that hide God’s voice. How often do we search for God’s voice in the world’s noise? We listen in the storms, the fires and the earthquakes of life, but never slow down enough to listen during the quiet moments of our lives. And what would we do if we really heard the gentle whisper of God? Would we listen and obey or ignore it?

Learning To Whisper

Many years ago, I experienced something that I will never forget. I read the paper one Saturday morning and saw an ad for a Christmas sale at a local shop. The store announced that it would randomly pick three people that day to receive all their purchases for free. I scoffed and turned the page, but as I did, I heard that gentle whisper that said, go. Money was tight in those days and it sounded great to get some Christmas stuff for free. Was it God or my imagination? I told my husband, and he laughed. “Do you know what the odds are that they will pick you?” He said. But something felt different about this voice. I knew the idea sounded crazy, but I listened and obey.

Well, long story short, I went by myself, because my family thought it crazy. And as I stood in line, I saw the manager glance my way. She walked over to me and said you are one of our winners today. Some might think it a coincidence, but I know better. God whispered to see if I would listen or not. I think this was the first time God whispered to me, but it was not the last time. I often think God tested me that day to see how I responded. Once I passed, He knew He could trust me with other, more important assignments.

Verses on Listening for God’s Voice

God can speak to us in many other ways, too. For example, He speaks through friends, songs, Bible verses or sermon. The important key is that we listen for His message. There are several other Bible verses that remind us to listen for God’s voice.

Proverbs 3:6 (MSG)—“Listen for God’s voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he’s the one who will keep you on track.” Deuteronomy 30:20a (NIV)–“and that you may love the Lord your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to him.”

Isaiah 30:21 (NIV)–“Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it.’”

Discerning the Whisper

When God whispers to us, we can discern the voice to make sure it is not our own. Here are some ways we can use in this discernment: Look at the scriptures–God does not speak to us with something that does not align with His Word. Seek Godly counsel–a trusted person can offer a healthy input into knowing if what we hear is from God or man. Following a godly whisper will bring us peace, not turmoil. Does it line with God’s characteristics like love, justice and truthful, for example.

Back to my story. At the store, I loaded up my shopping cart with Christmas decoration in anticipation of God’s blessing. But then I again heard a voice that whispered not to be greedy. So, I listened again and only kept a handful of items. One item, an animated Santa, sat on my hearth for many years, and reminded me of joy of listening for God’s whisper.

Prayer

Dearest Heavenly Father. Please help us slow down and listen for your whispers. We want to hear your voice and follow you all the days of our lives. So, please help us silence the worldly noises and make us still our busy minds. Thank you, Lord, for guiding my steps. In Jesus’ most holy name. Amen.

Click on photos to purchase Yvonne’s Books on Amazon.

Gina is a writer and works at Licensed Ordained Minister, Legacy Casting and Greatly Emboldened

NOTHING BUT FAITH?

By Gina Meredith

A coworker had just put in his notice and when another coworker asked why he was leaving, he said that he felt God was ready to take him elsewhere in his life. She asked, what are you going to do for a job,?” He simply replied, “I’m praying about it.”

She was very puzzled by his attitude. “Why would he leave the safety and security of a job he had worked for years with no plans for the immediate future….nothing really to fall back on?” Quite frankly, I think she thought he was crazy.

Later, she was telling a large group of us the story and laughing at his expense, while she told it.

Everyone laughed and made jokes. Being young in my life with Jesus, I laughed too.

As we all walked away from our little circle, I felt immediate conviction. “Why did I laugh? That’s not honoring God. That’s not showing people the new me or much more importantly, showing them Jesus through me.

As days went on, my mind kept going back to that day. I felt so disappointed in myself. That could have been used as a moment to speak up for God. That was an opportunity to potentially help someone and I blew it.

I wondered how I could laugh, when that was exactly what I did. I didn’t quit my job as he had because I wasn’t working at the time, but I left my home, my marriage, everything that I knew with no place to go. Nothing to rely on but my Faith in God, which, actually, is everything. My life has completely changed for the better since the day and it all began with a prayer. Just like my coworker, I had felt it was time for a change and I prayed about it.

I don’t like that I laughed about it that day. But I did try to make up for it later. I began to stand up in my faith and be bolder concerning my relationship with God. I began letting everyone know that I loved Jesus and even told my story to those who wanted to hear it.

That is what we are called to do….. To be a light in the darkness for those who are searching. We are to be the hands and feet of God.I will never again be ashamed of my faith for the Lord is my savior and my strength.

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

Existence

Life is both resilient and fragile. I’m reminded as I watch nature playout from my immediate surroundings. Animals I enjoy viewing today are found by the wayside tomorrow. Their lives seem so transient, so inconsequential but they give us enjoyment.

We are the better for their existence, though be it briefly. It is much like those we have known. At 70 I have seen good friends pass. We wonder about the point of our existence.

But a whisper comes, “From the beginning have I created you that you would seek Me, though I am never far from you.” And so we live to enjoy the natural while being comforted by a Presence unseen. One that seems obscure but felt in our quiet times.

Click on book photo to purchase on Amazon.

(I highly recommend this book! - Karen)

New Normal

Only in experiencing pain can one really appreciate the releasing from it. What was taken for granted in youth seems all too allusive with age. I have come to realize normalcy is an anomaly as the years slowly pass. What I gave no thought to has become a constant awareness. New normals come in various forms, be they financial, social, friends or family. But the most difficult is the physical limitations of our bodies. For some they have been dramatic, for others subtle.

This vehicle of flesh that carries our soul becomes diminished over time and we eventually will succumb to its frailties. Though my limitations have been subtle, they are nonetheless real and I am becoming more aware of them almost daily. But in the midst of all this there is a bright side that stands in stark contrast to our current realities. To those who choose to believe, there is a simple faith with an enduring hope of an eternal love.

One that will see us through this present darkness and usher us into an everlasting new normal, one with joy unspeakable and full of glory. So we take comfort in the words the apostle John heard in his vision of things to come, “And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.” Rev21:4 And this shall forever be our new normal.

A Balancing Act

Life is complicated. My desire to do one thing and my impulse to do another often is a frustrating reality of life. We weigh our decisions but sometimes choose unwisely. There is an internal voice that whispers. We hear but often do not respond. It is only later the realization was to obey for a better outcome. We live and learn as it is said.

There is a way forward, a way to understand and accept our inability to self regulate ourselves. God says come to me and I will make you a new person. He Who created you can change you. His Spirit brings new life. It is a desire of the heart. A heart that struggles and succumbs to the temptations presented to it. But kept in communication, God will overcome your doubts and fears as He gives you stability in life’s balancing act.

AS THE DEER PANTS FOR WATER

By Irene Surya

Blameless, let me be As I walk in Your Word, Blessed, let my life be As I seek You with my heart.

Steadfast, let my ways be As I follow You diligently, Righteous, let my days be As I fix my eyes upon You.

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.

Delighted, let my thoughts be As I meditate on Your love, Rejoicing, let my heart be As I wait on Your promises.

Tranquil, let my mind be As I lean on Your strength, Hopeful, let my desires be As I surrender to your will.

Pure, let my intentions be As I sit at your feet. Truthful, let my words be As I reflect on Your Word.

As the deer pants for waters Let my soul long for You, In the blooming gardens In the wilderness trail.

Click on book to purchase from Amazon.

Laurie Glass has a heart for encouraging others through her writing. She has had many poems and articles published and is the author of Expressing Your Grief: Through Poems and Prayers. Laurie is a staff writer for Chronic Joy, a ministry for those affected by chronic illness and other health issues. In addition, she won the Open Medicine Foundation poetry contest in 2019.

OH HOLY, ONE

By Laurie Glass

Oh, Holy One!

Deserving of a dwelling pure, immaculate abode, a place that feels like home!

In this house, filth must not abide with cleanliness, muck with purity, stench with sweet aroma. Oh, that He will feel at home!

Clear heart’s floor of debris, sweep away envy, jealousy, scrub walls of bitterness, remove foul smelling hatred, wipe clean the window of pride, brush off the spirit of fear, cleanse this habitat of selfishness.

In this house, there must be room for One whose righteousness can fill this domicile, for One whose holiness cannot intermingle with transgression. Oh, that He will feel at home!

Peace filling the air, joy maintaining a merry heart, contentment filtering negativity, hospitality breeding selflessness, love keeping the house in order.

Oh, Holy One!

Worthy of a home polished, sparkling brighter than the sun dancing on the water, aired out and fresh as lilacs in Spring, serene, with only beautiful music to enjoy. Oh, Holy One!

Deserving of a heart that feels like home!

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.

WHEN GOD SPEAKS TO US

By Donna J. Miller - photos by Donna Miller

When we read the Bible, we find that God spoke to people in many ways. He spoke through angels to Zechariah in the temple and to Mary (Luke 1:5-38), as well as many others.

God spoke through dreams. Remember the dreams that Joseph interpreted for the chief cupbearer and the chief baker and then later for Pharaoh himself? (Genesis 40:1- 41:36)

God spoke through visions. Do you remember Ananias in Damascus who was sent to ask for a man named Saul? (Acts 9:10-18) Ananias questioned that vision! He had heard about Saul’s plans to arrest everyone who believed in Jesus.

Sometimes God puts people in our paths that bring us the messages God wants us to hear. After Ananias visited Saul, he placed his hands on Saul. Saul regained his sight and was filled with the Holy Spirit. The people were astounded because they knew he was the man who came to take them as prisoners!

God even spoke through a donkey! (Numbers 22:21-35) After Balaam heard the donkey talking, his eyes were opened and he saw the angel God had sent.

Sometimes God spoke in a still small voice like He did to Elijah (1 Kings 19:11-13). Elijah probably expected a more powerful voice like David describes in Psalm 29. David says the voice of the Lord is above the waters, it thunders, it breaks the cedars, it flashes flames of of fire it shakes the wilderness, makes the deer give birth, and strips the woodlands bare. Those descriptions are very different from the still small voice Elijah heard after the wind, earthquake, and fire!

We agree that God has spoken to His people numerous times and in many different ways. The question we ask ourselves is “Does God still speak to us today?”

When I was in my twenties, I went to a conference about teaching preschoolers at church. I worked with preschoolers and was a firm believer that preschoolers could learn about Jesus, just as they learn so many other things! The teacher was Dr. C. Sybil Waldrop who was a manager at LifeWay (then the Baptist Sunday School Board).

In the midst of Dr. Waldrop’s presentation about teaching preschoolers, she said, “If anyone is interested in writing preschool curriculum, please give me your name and address and I will contact you.” My heart started pounding. I remember looking around the room to see if anyone else was excited and I wondered if everyone could hear my heart pounding! Dr. Waldrop kept talking and and everyone else seemed calm.

I knew her comment was just for me! I quickly found a piece of paper and wrote my name and address. After the session ended, I gave her the paper and she thanked me. She said they planned a couple of years ahead and it would be a year or two before I heard anything. Amazingly less than six months later, I was at my first writer’s conference and had my first Sunday School curriculum assignment. Now, over forty years later, I have written for LifeWay many years and still remember that excitement I felt when Dr. Waldrop asked about writing. God used her to open a door to ministry for me.

Later, I was teaching Kindergarten and had a new principal who was encouraging all the teachers at our school to apply to be National Board Certified. National Board Certification was new and I was very hesitant about it. I wasn’t sure it was the right thing for me.

One Wednesday night, I was processing books in our church library and thinking and praying about National Board Certification. Should I do it? Why? Why not? Suddenly, a voice asked, “What is in your hand?” I recognized the passage from Exodus 4 which I had recently studied. The Lord asked Moses what was in his hand and Moses replied, “A staff.” God revealed to Moses His plan to use that staff as Moses went back to Egypt to free God’s people.

I looked at my hands. One held a book to process and the other a library label. Beyond my hands was a typewriter and more books to process. I suddenly realized that the hour or two I spent in our church library were the most pleasant hours of my week. I thought, “I don’t want to do National Boards. I want to go back to school and become a school media coordinator.”

A few days later, I approached my principal and shared my decision to go back to school instead of doing National Boards. She had the biggest smile as she said, “You will be a wonderful media coordinator and about the time you get that degree, they will have released the National Boards for Media Coordinator and you can do that, too.”

Oh wow! I should have been overwhelmed, but I wasn’t because I knew without a doubt God had used my prayer and His word to open new doors for me. A few years later, the principal was the first person I called to tell that I had successfully completed National Boards for Media Coordinators (after getting that degree). I enjoyed sixteen years as an elementary school media coordinator.

The Bible and present day experiences remind us that God communicates in many ways. He speaks to us through His Word, prayer, circumstances, other people, what we read, Christian radio, nature, and multiple other ways.

God continues to speak and when I listen, I am blessed. Listen to God! If He can communicate through a donkey, He can surely communicate with you!

Nicole is a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 14 years of experience in community mental health. She is the author of Remade: Living Free a book written for women in recovery from substance abuse and unhealthy relationships.

Nicole also maintains a blog at nicolebyrum.com as well as a podcast, 5 Minute Word. Both focus on topics related to faith and relationships. She lives in Northwest Ohio with her husband and two children. When she’s not writing, you can find her reading, running, or cooking.

But God

by Nicole Byrum

Some of my favorite parts of Scripture contain the word “but.” Perhaps the most famous verse with this beautiful conjunction is Ephesians 2:4-5, “But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ- by grace you have been saved” (ESV). In this passage, the “but” shifts us from the very bad news of our sin and separation from God to the glorious hope we have in Christ. Let’s turn our attention now to two Old Testament examples of “but” language- and learn how this word can transform our darkest despair into renewed hope.

Psalm 102, penned by one who is afflicted and faint, begins with a cry to the Lord. The author pours out his request for God’s ear to be inclined to him, for His face to not be hidden from him. Verses 3-11 detail the depths of emotional and physical agony, of sleepless nights and sorrowful tears. Then, the “but.”

In verse 12 we see the radical shift: “But you, O LORD, are enthroned forever, you are remembered throughout all generations.” The remainder of the Psalm focuses on the greatness of God, of His power and might; of His overwhelming compassion, how He hears the groans of the prisoners and sets free those who are doomed to die. The psalmist also reflects on God’s power in Creation and on His eternal nature. “Of old you laid the foundation of the earth”( v.25); “You are the same and your years have no end” (v.27). Though the author began this particular writing with despair, he ended with hope by setting his mind on the character and attributes of God.

The Weeping Prophet did the same. For the first two chapters of Lamentations (and for much of the third) Jeremiah lamented deeply over Jerusalem. His anguish is palpable: “He has made my flesh and my skin waste away; he has broken my bones” (v.4); “He has filled me with bitterness; he has sated me with wormwood (v.15); “My soul is bereft of peace I have forgotten what happiness is” (v.17). These words are so heavy- and then we find our word: “But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness” (Lamentations :21-23). What a radical shift! Again, hope emerges when the heart is set on the love and mercy of God.

And for us. What are we to do with our frustration? With our fear? With our uncertainty and heartache? We first and foremost boldly pour our heart out to the Lord, as the word of God instructs us to “cast our anxieties on him because he cares for [us]” (1 Peter 5:7). Because there is nothing in our heart that is hidden from Him, we can humbly surrender our burdens to Him in honest prayer.

And after we lift up our pleas? We use the “but.” As Philipians 4 says, we set our minds on what is true and good and lovely. That is, we set our minds on the truth of who God is- that He is good, lovely, excellent, and praiseworthy. But God. But God who is rich in mercy, great in faithfulness, enthroned forever. As we recall His character and mighty deeds, our despair will give way to hope. And as God’s word assures us, hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts by His Spirit (Romans 5:5). Praise be to God!

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.

God Fights Your Battles

By Brianna Barrett

It was a typical day that took a turn and completely blindsided me. Someone hurled false accusations and hurtful words at my family. Earlier in the day, I had been reading James 1:19 - quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to get angry. That’s hard to do when someone is trying to ruin your reputation.

After spending most of the night talking to God, I concluded I had to forgive the person who had wronged my family and me. I wasn’t ready to forgive them because the wound was raw, but I prayed, “God, I forgive them for what they did and said. I’m not completely there yet, but I know the blood of Jesus will cover it.” (Thanks, Lysa Terkeurst, for that inspiration.) Afterward, I drifted off to sleep.

The next morning, I read Psalm 46:1, “God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble.” (NLT).

My son and I were talking over breakfast when he shared his Bible study the night before. It had discussed how we would go through hard things, but God was there fighting for us. He would work it out for good.

Later that morning, while I was waiting for an appointment, I scrolled through my social feed to find constant verses, and reminders letting me know how God was fighting my battles, how God was my refuge in these troubling times, and how trials came. God knew what I needed to read right then. The reminders and verses continued throughout the day.

The knot that had been in my stomach for the last 24 hours finally dissipated. I was at peace, knowing that I wasn’t fighting a battle alone. God was reminding me that He had this situation. Exodus 14:14, “The Lord himself will fight for you. Just stay calm.” Those words were a balm to my anxious heart and mind.

The same day I had written in my journalLord, you are my refuge, my peace, my life and my hope. You abide in me and I in you. Guide me - lead me - teach me your ways to follow. In Jesus’ name, amen.

When the world meets you with troubles, when darkness tries to prevail, surrender yourself to God, our refuge, our peace, and our hope because He has overcome the world (John 16:33). Lay the burdens down and walk with Him in peace as you allow Him to fight your battles for you.

The old me wouldn’t have let God fight for me, the old me would have been all high and mighty trying to throw stones back at the accuser. But God is refining me. He is helping me to be anchored in His word and find peace in trusting Him. The old me rears its head at times, but I’ve been able to change because God changed my stubborn, hard heart and put a heart of flesh in me.

God is fighting your battles. He’s in charge and in control. Anchor yourself in Him and His word. Rest assured, God’s got this!

Lord, thank you for forgiving us when we sin. Lord, help us forgive those who have sinned against us. Please help to ease our minds as you fight our battles. Thank you, Lord. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Mike Hall is in his 45th year as a teacher and has authored two collections of poetry, Autumn’s Back Porch and Thinking Out Loud. His work has appeared in a variety of online magazines including Pure in Heart Stories, Discretionary Love, Solid Food Press, Spirit Fire Review, and Agape Review. He and his wife, Cynthia, live in the Dallas, Texas area.

Poetry

by Mike Hall

What He Was Meant To Be

Without a compassionate spirit, Man’s soul is just an empty shell, Allowing negative emotion to fill it And creating a self-imposed hell.

He was designed to be a social being, To interact and gather as one, To look after each other’s wellbeing, To help keep lives from being undone.

For in these times of trials and tests, When we are stressed and filled with fear Because of life’s seemingly unfair contests, We rise to help, to be present, and not disappear.

If fear is allowed to seize and take hold, Suspicions can grow into a roaring rage. From that boiling anger, violence will unfold, Letting the beast escape from its prohibiting cage.

Man can choose compassion over indifference, Can choose trust over fear and suspicion. The choice that is made will be the difference, Peace of mind gained from this decision.

Life is too fleeting to march through with disdain, To treat others with insolence and contempt. To help, to serve, to forgive, to be kind, to be humane, Is the path away from anger, and from it be ruled exempt.

Fill the shell of the soul with love and grace, Adhering to patience, embracing empathy, Removing suspicion and fear, leaving no trace, Then man can become what God meant him to be.

Bring It On

Isaiah 43: 18-19 Forget the former things; do not dwell on the things of the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams I the wasteland. NIV

A new year has come, a hope for new beginnings.

May I not dwell on what is given up, but embrace what is being gained. In this new year, may I replace selfish with selfless, apathy with sympathy, indifference with compassion, cruelty with kindness, harshness with tenderness, and distress with peace.

May I stubbornly resist that which would harm. May I persist in bringing joy to others.

May I act accordingly instead of speaking incessantly. When it feels like I am pulling a wagon without wheels, straining to gain an inch at a time, may I remember that I am not alone, for you made me a new creation, filled with your power, if I will only claim what You freely offer. So, bring on this new year filled with God’s plans, understanding, if it is to be . . . it begins in prayer on bended knee

David Sowers is a freelance writer, author, poet, and cartoonist

Easter Poem

By David Sowers

Jesus and his followers went to Jerusalem.

As they traveled, great crowds followed them.

He went to the temple and drove out crowds there.

He said, “This is not for thieves, this a House of Prayer.”

He taught at the temple and preached the Good News.

Some priests and elders came to question all his views. They confronted him as if looking for a fight.

They asked, “Why are you here? Who gave you the right?”

Jesus asked them a question so they would understand.

He asked, “Did John’s right to baptize come from God or man?”

The priests and elders could not tell him.

So Jesus refused to tell them.

Some teachers of the law tried to trick him.

But Jesus was calm and ready to answer them. They asked him, “Is it against our law? Tell us?”

“Shall we pay taxes to the Emperor, Jesus?”

But Jesus was ready for their little dare.

He asked, “Show me a coin. Whose face and name are there?”

“The emperor,” they said. And so Jesus told them.

“Go and pay the emperor what you owe him.”

“And pay God what belongs to God,” he said. They had tried to trap him, but left speechless instead.

The time for the Festival of Passover was near.

Jesus had left the chief priests in fear. They wanted to find a way to slay him.

So they tried to get Judas to betray him. They offered him money to buy his trust.

And he agreed to trap his friend, Jesus.

Jesus and his disciples sat for his final meal.\ They listened for what he would reveal.

Jesus told them, “One of you shall betray me.”

They looked around and asked, “ Who could that be?”

As they were eating, Jesus passed out some bread.

He gave a prayer, broke it, gave it out and said, “This is my body, take it, and eat it.”

They did as he asked. He didn’t need to repeat it.

Then Jesus took a large cup. It had some wine and was all filled up. He said, “This is my blood, so drink it.”

The future looked dark. They didn’t want to think it.

After the meal, Jesus prayed. Shortly before he was betrayed.

Judas kissed him and Jesus was arrested. He was taken to Pilate where he was tested.

Pilate thought Jesus had done no wrong.

So he sent him to Herod before too long.

Herod was pleased to see Jesus and questioned him.

But he would not respond, so he returned to Pilate again.

Pilate knew this case couldn’t wait.

He had a crowd decide Jesus’s fate.

Pilate said he could release Barabbas or Jesus.

The crowd cried out, “Set Barabbas free for us.”

“Should Jesus be free?” He asked the crowd again.

They shouted back angrily, “Crucify him!”

Jesus was condemned, forced to walk to his death.

The crowds mocked him as he walked by and left.

On the way, the soldiers seized a man named Simon. They forced him to carry a cross behind them. They nailed his hands and he was crucified. He was with two criminals until they died.

One robber on the right and another on his left. They were crucified with Jesus and suffered until death.

Above his head was written, “Here is the King of the Jews.”

The people below him mocked Jesus for his views.

He said, “Father, forgive them, they know not what they do.”

The soldiers divided up his clothes by lots they drew.

One of the robbers turned and said to Jesus.

“If you are the Messiah, then save yourself and us.”

The other one rebuked him saying, “We are guilty men.”

“But he doesn’t deserve this, he lived without sin.”

Jesus turned to him and looked into his eyes.

He said, “Today you will be with me in paradise.”

“Father, into your hands, I commit my spirit,” he said.

That was his last breath and then, he was dead.

The centurian praised God and Jesus on that day.

Witnesses beat their breasts and then walked away.

His body was taken down, wrapped in cloths, and entombed.

For him, women prepared spices and perfume.

They did not get back to his body anyway.

Since they went to observe the Sabbath day.

The women took their spirits and went to his tomb.

But the entrance stone was moved. He was not in the room.

They saw two men of light standing around.

The women bowed in fear with faces toward the ground.

“Why do you look for the living among the dead?”

“He is not here. He has risen,” the men said.

“The Son of Man delivered into the hands of evil men.”

“Jesus was crucified, laid to rest, and arose again.”

When the men appeared, they were seen by Mary Magalene.

She told his disciples, but they had not seen the men.

Jesus appeared before the disciples as they dined.

He asked, “Why are you troubled? Why are doubts within your mind?”

He told his disciples to touch his hands and feet.

When they were amazed, he asked, “Anything to eat?”

He said, “This is what I told you when I was still with you.”

“Everything foretold about me will come true.”

“Understand the scriptures as they were written,” he said.

“The Christ will suffer, then arise from the dead.”

He lifted their hands and they were blessed by him.

He went to heaven when he left them.

His disciples rejoiced and spread his message around the earth. They told of his life, his death, and rebirth.

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.

Mercy Sings in the Morning

By Shara Bueler-Repka

It was quiet. Really quiet. And dark. We woke up early this particular morning to get ready to hit the road to sing at a church on the Texas coast. I sat on the couch with my coffee, savoring the silence. No obnoxious highway noise, no barking dogs…nothing. However, I noticed that the abundance of birds taking refuge here were also strangely silent.

I gazed toward the horizon. Slowly, a thin glow appeared in the distance. Immediately, one lone Robin, perching somewhere in the tree above our rig, burst into song.

I listened in amazement. That bird waited until it saw the first light. Funny, the profoundness in something so simple. Even Creation celebrates the light, offering a kind of praise in the mercies of a new morning.

Those profound moments are comforting. When I see the simplicity of life, especially in Creation, things suddenly line up in perspective.

It was God’s way of bringing peace and hope as I contemplated the frustrating stuff Bruce and I were dealing with. My mind also drifted back to past difficulties throughout my life and the proof of His mercy. Difficulties not limited to: a mother who was shot by a mentally ill woman; our family home lost during a firestorm; divorce, death, and a sundry of other challenges. I can say with great experience that the worst time after a life-changing event is waking up the next morning. It’s when you realize, with crazy clarity, that “it” actually happened and wasn’t just a really bad dream. There were times the sensation of shock waves zapping through my heart and the feeling like my gut took a good swift kick, got a bit old.

Sometimes it’s hard to keep faith energized. But it’s also the perfect time to press in and believe God understands our struggles. In His mercy, he hears our cries and is instantly on the move in our situation, whether we see Him working or not.

That bird reminded me to sing. Sing because Jesus is the light piercing the darkness. No matter what life throws at us, we can rejoice because He is the God of the impossible. He makes streams in a dry desert and roadways in a pathless wilderness. (Isaiah 43:19)

“Be anxious for nothing,” He says…well, commands. He knows who He is and what He is capable of. As we learn to trust Him, we realize He’s pretty mighty. Nothing fazes Him, nothing surprises Him.

Even the sparrows sing. They’re tiny and vulnerable—a blip on the radar in the aviary of life. Yet God knows their needs and provides for them. He even sees when they fall. So, if He cares about them, He cares deeply about what is happening to us. (Matthew 10:29-31)

Now and again, we need these little reminders of God’s love. With no distractions, I clearly heard and saw His message this early Sunday morning: Sing to Him a new song; Play skillfully with a shout of joy. (Psalm 33:3)

Karen is the publisher of Faith On Every Corner Magazine. She is an author of children’s books and devotional books. New books will be released soon!

What A Difference A Year Makes

By Karen Ruhl

Last March 14th, Craig went to be with Jesus. I am glad the year has passed. A year really does make a difference in our lives.

I am chuckling about all of the things that have happened this past year, and I wonder what Craig would hav done. First, his computer quit working, I was able to save most of his files - thankfully. About a week later, my computer must have been jealous because it started acting up. SOOOO, I was able to get a refurbished computer. After I got everything transferred, my computer decided it was just kidding and is working today. I now have two computers and two screens and believe it or not, it is really nice. I can jump back and forth or reference something on one while typing on the other.

Of course one big event was Hurricane Helene. I hit North Carolina with so much loss, they are still trying to get it cleaned up and get people in homes. I had my basement flood, the garage flood, loss of electricity for 5 days (with a 2 year old, that isn’t easy, he didn’t understand why YouTube didn’t work! Then of course, I lost all of the food in the refrigerator.

It seems like there was something almost every week. Including why I have Damien full-time. But that is personal and I’ll leave it alone. Prayers are always welcome.

At Christmas my girlfriend Donna and I took Damien out for a ride to look at Christmas lights. We were having a fun night. I remember saying “look at all the deer out tonight.” Well one must have heard and decided to jump in front of my van. Yep, totaled, thankfully, no injuries and thanks to my current mechanic - I have a used Chrysler Town and Country van.

There is more, and now when something happens, I just sit still and wait for God to guide me. I no longer get overly stressed because this year He has shown me how He takes care of His own.

I am praying for all of you to have the experieces with God that I have had this year. Not the downside of all that has happened. Just the incredible love God shows us all. God Bless You All.

Love and Blessings, Karen

"Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father." Not only will they be granted entrance to the kingdom, they will shine as children of God the Father. (Proverbs 4:18; 1 John 2:8; 2 Corinthians 4:6).

Amen and Amen

Karen Ruhl Photographer

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.

MAKING A TURN

By Linda Castro

“Turn my heart toward your statues and not toward selfish gain.” (Psalm 119:36 NIV)

“It’s straight to the top from here! “my co-worker said proudly, “No turning back now!”

I watched in awe as he stated this with a big smile on his face.

What he was bragging about was the success of the latest project he had been assigned to complete. However, it was only made possible by the constant efforts of others in our group who had worked tirelessly reworking what he had started and never finished. Pages of documents that he had only seen as the finished product and had been received by his supervisor with compliments, “On time again, I see. Great job!” the supervisor said.

No credit was given to anyone else in the group. His name was the only one on the completed project. One more step up the corporate ladder to add to his selfish gain. Or so he thought.

Unfortunately, this type of action can be a somewhat common occurrence in many large corporations. Due to the layers of supervision, even between departments, actual contributors to projects are sometimes not recognized.

Has this ever happened to you? Perhaps in business? Or family relationships? Or school? Or maybe, even in Church? Someone else gets the credit for your work and contributions. We end upwith hurt feelings, resentment, or anger.

Is this how God created us to be? No. But God sees all and knows all. And He promises us a way to make things right again.

How does God make things right in our lives when things like this have happened? First, by giving us His peace. He promises us in His Word, “Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.” (2 Thessalonians 3:16 NIV).

God gives us His peace “in every way”. That means even in things like having our hard work overlooked to someone else’s credit.

We may not be in a position to change the course of history in the world as our Savior, Jesus and King David were when they questioned God, but our individual world is important to each of us and to our families.

How do we receive this peace? By making a turn. We turn from our human feelings and hurts and turn toward God. He is waiting to make things right. God loves us and does not like it when people hurt each other.

God also helps us to make the turn we need to make by putting people in our lives who recognize our worth. Who sees our accomplishments and encourages us to continue on the path

God has set in front of us. Making a turn sometimes can be described as driving on a busy highway with lots of cars in rush hour traffic, everyone needing to be at a particular place at a particular time, as in their job or other appointment, and you get to make a turn and leave it all behind.

Smile. It is the second thing God gives us in making things right in our lives again. If we are upset, do we want to smile? No!

But God promises us “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries bones.” (Proverbs 17:22 NIV). So, it is up to us. We can maintain a cheerful heart which can help us in our spirit and even in our health! Or we can choose to hang on to being upset and allow a crushed spirit to do damage to us. The choice is easy! Smile!

Another thing God gives us in making a turn is the kindness He wraps us in. “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:32 NIV). He reminds us in this scripture that He forgave us so we need to forgive the person we are upset with.

And by the way, remember the person who took the credit for the hard work of others? The project was such a success that he was asked by his supervisor in an important meeting with other executives to recap his findings. To describe certain critical portions of the overall plan and to answer questions by the executives. None of which he could do.

In the meantime, the person who had taken the credit was demoted and was now on the same level with the other team members. He confessed his wrongdoing and was making a turn. He turned to the others, saying he was sorry.

God had helped the others with His peace, a smile, and tenderhearted kindness. Was this easy to do? No. Was it possible to do it and live the life that God had created for each of us? Yes. Absolutely.

As time goes on, each of us as individuals are given opportunities to make a turn. Turn from selfish gain and turn toward God. He has such a wonderful life planned out for each of u s!

So, as the scripture says “”Turn my heart toward your statues and not toward selfish gain.” That is our prayer.

Book Review

by Karen Ruhl

Little of This...Little of That!

By Steve Carter

I love to edit books, and I especially love to edit ones that make me think or make me smile. This one does both.

Steve is a very talented writer. This book has stories and poems. Take your time, sit down and read a few pages and think about what you read.

We had the pleasure of publishing another book for Steve, pictured here as well.

I highly recommend both books!

Mitchell is a former Psychotherapist in Retirement. He Studied American History at SUNY Binghamton MSW and studied English Literature.

https://www.facebook.com/ArtisticMindsets

In Search Of A Righteous Understanding of One-Sided Male Friendships?

by Mitchell Milch

From “God’s Wisdom For Navigating Life,” By Tim Keller with Kathy Keller. “The fool sees and hears things but his eye and ear do not perceive them properly(Proverbs 17:24, and Proverbs 23:9).”

If our literal reading of others is inaccurate, whether God’s words or our spouse’s, we inadvertently wind up glorifying the reading of our own imaginations. This is like playing “telephone” with all the neighbors on the block, where you are situated at the end of the chain. The message first communicated bears no resemblance to what emerges for you at the end of the chain.

In virulent cases we may spin communications to demonize those we wish to marginalize. However, there is an entire spectrum of more benign motivations for taking artistic liberties with the messages we do not accurately read and hear. They are reflections of unconscious habits that flout the reality principle. They are part and parcel of our universal shortcomings that may express our penchant to tailor or modify what is conveyed to conform to our wishful desires.

When in dialogue with others it behooves us to actively listen and continuously clarify what we are hearing. If we do not begin with the literal, then our interpretive framings are not worth anyone else’s time and attention. Similarly, when we are reading a text, it is imperative to ensure that we are mindfully anchored in the moment and reading what is on the page.

I participate in a church reading group. We take turns reading excerpts of books written by liberal Christian thinkers. I have been alternately curious and perplexed by the minor yet steady stream of reading errors made by members of this cohort. I’m referring to adding and deleting words as well as making unsanctioned word substitutions. Granted, some of the errors do not significantly alter the listener’s accurate appraisals of the material; while some do. Without the benefit of having the time and space to investigate these matters in real-time, it is reasonably safe to say we can chalk up such errors to such variables as performance anxieties, wishful thinking, arrogant mind reading, and carelessness. No doubt there may be other explanations.

My sanctification mandates giving God the benefit of the doubt on all cultural matters that are incongruent with His words. The road towards enlightenment is about my struggle to reconcile what appear to me to be futile efforts to put round pegs in square holes. So, I have disciplined myself to humbly and respectfully begin with God’s written words. I am confident that all will agree that God does not gaslight His followers. Those among us however, who are concrete thinkers, and thus less tolerant of creative tension between discrepant ideas, may indeed feel inordinately frustrated and threatened by the larger unanswered questions of life and falsely reduce these questions to being answerable. I am wary of such longings for false comforts. Perhaps it is imperative that we “sweat the small stuff,” if we are to work better together as seekers of wisdom and answer our calling to be righteous custodians of this magnificent planet.

Do you when the opportunity avails itself clarify you have accurately read or heard the intended meaning of the author? If you are not disputing the importance of such an endeavor, why or why not?

Road Trippin by Karen Ruhl

I believe starting next month, I will be back on the road visiting more places and taking more photos! Here are a few from all over.

Brenda has her first book published through Page Publishing called My Angel My Hero.She has fulfilled her lifelong dream of being a writer. She also has an MA in Counseling. She is retired and lives in Virginia. She now has her second book out called My Author Journey. Hope you read and review it? God bless.

March Comes in Like a Lion...And Leaves Like a Lamb

By Brenda McDaniel

We all are tired and stressed about the constant cold, ice, snow, floods, hurricanes, tornadoes and fires. Hopefully March will be warmer and a calmer month? Although there have been blizzards in March, too?

We have no control over the weather, but do the best we can to make it through, safely. And sometimes people have major setbacks, deaths, hurts and wounds whether bodily, mental or spiritual. The wounds, hurts and deaths etc. can overpower our strength and endurance at times. Especially the fear of losing a loved one, illness or betrayal by someone we loved dearly.

My sister Deb had two traumatic things happen to her recently. She came downstairs from her bedroom, slipped and fell, bruised, hit her head and body very hard. Deb called me from the hospital, getting x-rays and c-t scans. I was so scared for her, praying she didn’t have broken bones, concussion or blood clot in her head. When something like this happens, we realize even more, how precious our oved ones are and never take them for granted, again. Thankfully she didn’t have severe trauma, but was very sore for weeks.

And about a month later, Deb developed severe pain in her lower right abdomen. She was rushed to the hospital, they x-rayed her side. She had appendicitis and the next day had surgery to remove it. The family was so scared, her husband, daughters, sister and brother. We all prayed and begged the Lord to watch over her and help her make it through the operation. Later, we found out it was an outpatient surgery and she went home the same day. We all thanked the Lord for watching over his children, always and forever, saving Deb from any complications.

The night before she was rushed to the hospital, I began thinking about Deb’s life and mine. I couldn’t stop thinking about her and felt a deep love for my sister. I believe it might have been a premonition of things to come, in the future. I believe sometimes the Lord reaches out to prepare us for future pain, suffering or afflictions. And going through these travails can give us strength, peace and comfort in knowing the Lord is with us always. And the Lord will never forsake or leave us in time of need, whether the outcome is good or bad. The Lord walks beside us daily, feels our pain, worry, sorrow and reaches down to comfort and strengthen us. We are Never Alone! We are protected, guided, comforted and strengthened by the Lord’s presence in our Life and throughout Eternity! So our March brought us pain and worry but will end with comfort, joy, peace and Love, delivered to us by God’s Precious Lamb our Savior Jesus Christ!!

2 Timothy-1:7 ESV-For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power, love and self-control. Psalm 31:24-ESV-Be strong, and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for the Lord!

https://www.amazon.com/My-Angel-My-Hero/dp/B07WL82L6J https://www.amazon.com/My-Author-Journey/dp/B0BZQKTNRW

All photographs are available for purchase!

Custom sizing to fit your space and in a variety of finishing choices: A framed and matted photographic print, high gloss metal print or canvas. Please send me an email with what you have in mind to marketingbysonia@gmail.com

Pam McCormick is a writer and retired from teaching in the public school and community college setting. Pam has several books published, you can find her books on Amazon.com by clicking the link.

The Wedding Dress

by Pam McCormick

A red ribbon was tied around her waist. To her, the dress was beautiful. It was offwhite and had pockets of lace, and she loved her dress. She was married in an outdoor ceremony, because she had not been allowed to marry in a church. She did not see the scars others saw. She saw only that it was her wedding day, and she was getting married. Her sin of getting pregnant before marriage had thwarted all her dreams of ever wearing white. She held a silent anger inside herself that others had worn white. For years, she held onto the lie that because of her unplanned pregnancy, she was not worthy to wear white, and then God gave her a new outlook. God knew just what she needed, and He would provide it in His timing.

She went with a walk with a Christian friend who helped her see “that day” totally brand new. Her friend told her that the scarlet ribbon was a bow, wrapped around her waist, and she was being given by her father and mother to her husband as a gift. That idea had never crossed her mind, but she received it as Truth instead of the lies she had been believing about her wedding day. I’m thankful to my friend MaryJane for pointing out a totally new way of looking at that day.

But God was not done making this child’s dreams of a beautiful wedding come true. I had gone to a garden that had a cross and several pink and white dogwoods lining a leisurely path. As I walked, I noticed pink and white petals on the sidewalk in front of me. I smiled, because God was still making my wedding day new for me and reminding me that I was His bride too.

After the riots in many downtown cities a few years back, I made a comment that I was thankful the streets had been cleaned up. A woman named Joy snapped at me and used some harsh words with me. I responded by saying, “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to say anything mean.” Her next response was not mean at all. She said, “Why are you being so nice to me? Father God knows the dreams we hold in our hearts, and He puts them there. I don’t know what else God will do, but I’m so thankful for all He has done already. He loves to make our days brighter. He’s so good.

That was 44 years ago, and God has taken a fragile, broken picture and reframed it. I accepted Jesus as my Savior in May of 2000, and daily He shows me new and beautiful things about me. I’ve struggled to love myself, but God is working on that too each and every day.

Instead of the off-white dress with the red ribbon, God has clothed me in a robe of His righteousness. Jesus has taken my sin and washed it away, and I stand before my Father in Heaven in white, not because of anything I have done to deserve it, but because of the blood of Christ that covers me and has made me white as snow in my Father’s eyes. What can wash away my sin? Nothing but the blood of Jesus

*What can make me whole again? Nothing but the blood of Jesus Oh, precious is the flow that makes me white as snow No other fount I know, nothing but the blood of Jesus.

“I am an overcomer by the blood of the Lamb and the word of my testimony.” Revelation 12:11

*Author of What Can Wash My Sins Away

Robert Lowry (March 12, 1826 – November 25, 1899) was an American professor of literature, a Baptist minister and composer of gospel hymns, including What Can Wash Away My Sin.

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

Disclaimer and Copyright Notification

The Information contained in the published works of Faith On Every Corner has been received from sources we believe to be reliable. However, neither Faith On Every Corner nor its authors, writers, editors, or publishers can guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any information published. Faith On Every Corner, its authors, editors, and publishers are not responsible for any errors or omissions in our published works. The opinions and theology expressed by contributing writers are their own and not necessarily that of Faith On Every Corner, LLC., its owners or staff.

All Faith On Every Corner, LLC publications, websites, blogs, and other media are copyrighted. All rights are reserved. Contents published in Faith On Every Corner Magazine may be reproduced, shared, copied, or transmitted as long as the published work is unaltered and contains proper attribution to Faith On Every Corner. Contributing writers to Faith On Every Corner retain full rights to their contributed content.

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.