Children are a gift of God. And Abortion is MURDER.

Let me start this with saying: if you have had an abortion and regretted it, yes you allowed something horrible to be done, but God will forgive you. He is merciful, and just, and He will lovingly take you back into His fold, all you have to do is ask.

Now, if you read the news, I am pretty sure you know who Lena Dunham is. I distastefully call her a woman, she is not much of one, but God made her one so that settles it no matter how I view her. This disgusting woman, who wrote about an experience with her sister (Lena was 7, her sister was1) that sends chills up my spine (see link below) had the audacity to proclaim the following:

“Now I can say that I still haven’t had an abortion, but I wish I had.”

She was at an abortion clinic, a Planned Parenthood if you are wondering, and a young girl "asked me if I’d like to be a part of her project in which women share their stories of abortions,” Dunham said. “I sort of jumped. ‘I haven’t had an abortion,’ I told her. I wanted to make it really clear to her that as much as I was going out and fighting for other women’s options, I myself had never had an abortion.”

She has never had one but she wishes she had.

There is so much wrong with this woman I am not sure where to begin.

She goes onto say,
“And I realized then that even I was carrying within myself stigma around this issue,” Dunham continued. “Even I, the woman who cares as much as anybody about a woman’s right to choose, felt it was important that people know I was unblemished in this department.”
…“I feel so proud of them for their bravery, for their self-knowledge, and it was a really important moment for me then to realize I had internalized some of what society was throwing at us and I had to put it in the garbage,” she said.

I read Matt Walsh. He is a Christian Conservative who speaks on faith, family, politics, and much more. Much is tongue in cheek but there is a heavy dose of truth and wake up! He shared what Ms. Dunham expressed and has written a few times in the past two days on the matter.(see below again) The last he shared was on the stigma. How, yes, there is a stigma to abortion, and for those who feel there shouldn't be, shame on you. That stigma, that guilt, that is your conscience speaking. That is the Holy Spirit telling you that abortion is wrong.

The great thing about God is that He will never go away. Therefore the Holy Spirit will not go away. And the stigma of abortion will not go away. I watched earlier this year the videos of the abortionist discussing money for different aborted baby parts.

Over salad people were discussing how much money could be made by murdering babies, cutting them up and selling the parts.

Again, there are so many things wrong with that statement...

Psalm 139:13 (ESV)

 For you formed my inward parts;
    you knitted me together in my mother's womb.

God knit us in our mother's womb. That means created. And if you know a knitter, they love what they create, the cherish it. As does our Heavenly Father love us.

I am disgusted by Ms. Dunham. She needs prayer's ya'll. Her and those like her. Maybe we have lost our country and all we can do is pray. I know that Texas today moved forward to prevent Planned Parenthood from receiving Medicare money. That is a step. But these people do not give up. And they won't, they have been at this game for decades, and those of us of faith are behind, and not working hard enough to catch up.

I want to recommend a book to you. It will explain much of what is going on in our country (world), how it all started, why it is happening, and who is behind it. A lady who I admire, and her husband who has an amazing testimony, recommended this book to me. I finished it Monday. Now...it is not an easy read. It will make you mad, make you sad, and make you want to fight. Maybe if enough of us stand up we can fight back and take back our country. But if all we can do is pray, will you join me? Will you pray for the babies who have been murdered since Roe v. Wade? For the hundred of babies killed everyday? Will you pray for the misguided crusader's of choice who think that murdering a baby will make their life better....easier? And will you pray for the church to stand up, call abortion for what it is (MURDER), and to help the women who feel they have no choice?

I cannot wrap my mind around the pro-choice movement. I am not judging those who have had abortions and regretted it. But there are people out there that say their abortion was liberating, the best thing to ever happen to them...and all I can think about is how a baby was murdered.

In the past few days I have 2 stories of families who chose life. One is a family I do not know personally, but they are friends of a sweet family I know. The mother-to-be was told that her baby, the one in her womb, would not live to birth. At 20 weeks gestation, her baby, a girl, was diagnosed with anencephaly (see below). This family did not abort. They instead celebrated every week they had with that little girl. Cupcakes, crafts to remember a little girl who would not grow up. And that sweet baby hung around 15 more weeks until going to be with Jesus just a few days ago. Pray for that family please.

The second story I knew nothing about until I saw something on Facebook a few hours ago. I didn't even know that this friend from high school was pregnant (and I wasn't the only one). But apparently a test had shown something wrong with the baby. Her post today was along the lines of "don't kill your babies, tests can be wrong even when you are told they are 99% accurate, etc." Now, I don't think this friend would abort, her Facebook picture is a panda holding a sign that says "Save the human babies." And today she shared with the world that test was wrong, and her and husband will now be having a baby girl, after already having 2 healthy boys! Praise the Lord for her strength and faith in God. Reading her Facebook wall, it is full of praise, and people proclaiming an answered prayer.

That book, that I think all believers should read is called, "Marketing of Evil: How Radicals, Elitists, and Pseudo-Experts Sell Us Corruption Disguised As Freedom," by David Kupelian. Barnes & Noble and Amazon both sell it. After reading that book, I do have more of an understanding on how people have been sold that Abortion is a right and not evil. But my heart, that I have given to God, refuses to accept it.

Lena Dunham Article

Matt Walsh Article About Stigma of Abortions

Anencephaly Diagnosis

Where to find The Marketing of Evil

Time With Famiy

Did you hear?

I have the best job ever!

I am enjoying, since high school (12 1/2 years ago), two weeks off for Christmas! My new job has some great perks, let me tell you. A week off for Thanksgiving, 2 for Christmas/New Year, 1 week for Spring Break, and a handful of holidays. I work with a great group of individuals who all love the Lord, pray for each other, and enjoy simple fellowship. I feel so blessed.

This week so far I have: read 2 books and am on #3, hit up the gym early in the day, visited with my mom and little brother, and today as a family we all went to the zoo.

Oh the zoo! My kids had a blast. The weather was perfect, not exactly wintery, but hey, I am not complaining. I love cold weather, but the temperatures today insured we spent several hours outside enjoying life!

My wonderful husband with our kiddos 

My little man and I. He is my cuddler and sweet boy.

Proof that they can be sweet to each other.

 We had such a great time petting the goats, avoiding the chickens and seeing the animals moving around. Due to the great weather not many were inside the enclosures. They were lounging in the sun, pacing back and forth. And since many people were working there was hardly anyone there. In past trips we have continually bumped into people - not this trip.

After a few hours we came home. My husband had a few clients lined up for the evening so he wanted to rest. I packed the kids up and went to Chick-fil-A. They got ice cream (we are in Texas) and I got coffee. And let me tell you, the customer service was fantastic! At 3:00 they still had coffee and I wasn't expecting fresh brewed. Well the server gave me my cup and I thought that was that. A few minutes later a manager came over and said she was brewing a fresh batch and would bring me some out shortly. I told her she didn't have to, but thank you. And sure enough, no longer after she swapped my cup out. That was some good coffee! Once the munchkins gobbled up their cones I let them play in the play area. They giggled, made new friends, and went up and down too many times to count. And once we got home I unleashed them and the dog into the back yard. Swings, imagination, tossing the stick for our dog Lady, and lady bugs! My goodness, close to 10 lady bugs around our play-scape. They were lovely and the kids kept trying to grab them. Of all the bugs in the world, those are my favorite and I was tickled pink to see so many!

After a day of much activity neither child argued about dinner - left overs.

Do you know that leftovers are a blessing? Think about it. Leftovers imply so much:

• You have food and the means to prepare it.
• You have enough food to go around and then some.
• You have the means to save (refrigerate) your food.

This year has been tight for us financially, actually the past few years. But through it all I have seen God's hand. He has always allowed us to eat: through food we have prepared, donated meals, gift cards given as gifts, parents/family inviting us over for meals. God takes care of his people. And those of us in America, we have it good. And I feel we take it for granted. I know for one that we throw away many of our leftovers because we get tired of eating the same thing and the fridge needs cleaning. I saw a video yesterday about a lady in Los Angeles who went a month trash free. She only had a handful of scraps at the end, but it was impressive. It takes an effort and work to not waste. It has given me a few things to ponder.

But tonight my kids who are not really picky didn't even blink at their plate of hodgepodge leftovers. And both pretty much cleaned their plates. Normally I get a negotiation about amounts or how many bites, but after a day full of activity dinner was quiet. Little man tuckered out right after 7. I checked on him a bit ago and sweet boy was about to fall out of his bed. Him not being a crib was a smoother transition then I expected.

Abigail and I had a wonderful evening of drawing and games - her homework. Yes, I have my 4 year old "do" homework. But honestly it is just fun. We color, we read, we play games, we create. Sheis learning and we are bonding.

Round 2 - she won the first round.

The memory game was a birthday gift that we finally opened. Abigail really impressed me and I am sure we will repeat this over the next two weeks. Still can't believe my 4 year old beat me.

This time with family has been refreshing. And we have so much more to do. Christmas itself, New Year's day, both of which have church services. There will be time with family, Brock and I will divide and conquer and have fun individually with each kid, and hopefully we will manage a date night sometime soon.

I am thankful for this new chapter in my life. God has given me an opportunity that I never imagined having.

Merry Christmas!

No Santa...and other parenting differences.

"Abigail, are you ready for Santa to bring you presents?" Mrs. G. asked my 4 year old. Who in turn replied, "Mommy and daddy work hard, we don't get gifts from Santa."

The look on my friends face was one of horror.

We. Don't. Do. Santa.

My husband and I made the decision to not do: Santa, Easter Bunny, Tooth Fairy, or the Elf on the Shelf, before we ever conceived.

Now hear me out Christmas is my favorite holiday. My tree is up, I want a 2nd one even, I have wreaths up, Christmas oven mitts out, we bake Christmas cookies, and watch Christmas themed cartoons. I love the idea of Santa, even have a few ornaments on my tree of the jolly old guy. But, my husband and I do work hard, and if we give something to our children, we want them to know that it is because we worked for it.

Years ago I heard the story of Tim Tebow and his mom. She too did not do Santa, the Easter Bunny, etc. Her reason (and ours too): What happens when your child finds out the truth? Something inside them knows that you can lie to them, and to a 6 or 9 year old, being told Santa isn't real is earth shattering. That child will call into question what else have you lied about. And like Tim Tebow's mom, we don't want our kids to think that Jesus is a lie.

The look on my friends face is one I have seen before. I have had people look in me in the face and tell me I am mean, a Grinch, and that I have sucked all the joy out of the holiday's - just because my family has chosen to not do Santa.

Do I think my husband and I have taken all the joy out of the season? No. My children are excited, they have there 3 gifts from their parents under the tree. A box arrived from their great grandmother, and they cannot wait to open it. And just yesterday, our neighbor brought over a gift for each of the kids. The stash under the tree is growing. My kids are excited. And my four old will tell you, besides that we don't get presents from Santa, but that the reason we celebrate is Jesus.

This isn't just about the holidays, this is about different parenting styles. I have friends with grown children, grandchildren even, teenagers, elementary age, preschool age and even newborns. And not a single one of parents the same way. Some are fine with their 4 year old having a pacifier, others are mortified that their 1 year old still has one. Some are fine with their daughters having messages on their rear ends, not going to happen in my household. I have friends who have devoted their life to their children doing sports, all the sports you can imagine. They spend months with one team/one sport, then move onto the next. My daughter is 4 and will try t-ball in the Spring - after that, who knows. I have friends who on Sunday sleep in, eat a hot breakfast at home, and spend the day watching movies. My family is different. We wake, we dress then go to church for half the day essentially.

No matter the differences, there is one thing in common.

We are all doing the best we can, and believe we are doing what is best for our family, for our children. I might not understand why some of my friends do what they do, and I bet I confuse them at times with what we do. But at the heart of the matter, we do what we do because we love the little humans we have been blessed with.

So, when someone tells you "We don't do__________." Don't be mortified or feel you need to justify why you do "do ___________." Nod your head and say okay. And remember, life didn't come with a handbook (other than the Bible) and so for the most part, we are all winging life.

God bless!

Reflections going into the holiday's

Hello Sister Wife's,

I hope this post finds you doing well post Thanksgiving. The past few months have been a whirl wind and I am happy to say my Shuman's and I have begun to set into a routine finally.

I absolutely love my new job and responsibilities at the private school. God always knows what He is doing and He placed me in the right place. I was heading toward burn out, through no fault but my own. My personality and my last position could only couple for so long. The kids are still in the preschool and learning so much. Little man, his vocabulary is blossoming every day, or as much as it can for a 2 year old. Little miss is so bright and sassy, she has her best friend and her favorite teachers. Drop off has gradually gotten easier with time - I must confess, that has been the hardest thing for me. Not being with them all day. I now know what most parent's who utilize childcare have experienced.

But at the same time I have discovered a better sense of my self. Eventually both kids will join me at the Academy. But they rarely, if ever will see me, so I will still have anonymity while being with them. The morning commute to work and the afternoon commute to get them are cherished moments I have needed. In the afternoon's I have discovered a pastor out of Beaumont who preaches the word, teaches so Hebrew grammar and always has a message that hits the heart. Hearing that after a successful day at work is a great refresher before an evening at home with my littles.

Along with the change in career, my spiritual life has been transformed. At the beginning of August or so of this year our pastor challenged people to join what the pastoral staff called, The Joshua Team. It stems from Exodus 33:11

¹¹ So the Lord spoke to Moses face to face, as a man speaks to his friend. And he would return to the camp, but his servant Joshua the son of Nun, a young man, did not depart from the tabernacle.

Our Pastor challenged those who wanted to join to commit to 30 minutes of prayer a day, with daily Bible Reading. It was a 40 day initiative. To start, there were 8 verses one was to read though to focus the mind. One was to read a Proverb (the date of the month) and a Psalm (day number of the initiative) and to work through 1 John (would read through it 8 times during the 40 days). The hope was that after the individual would have developed a lifelong habit. Our Pastor mentioned it through September and encouraged people to develop a plan for after and to come up with life verses to commit to memory. About 2 weeks in, over 500 people had signed up to participate.

Today was day 104 for me. I began my 40 days on my first day of my new job. I read Revelation twice after the first 40 days, which took me through day 84, and now I am 20 days into my 3rd 40 day set. I am working my way through the Gospel (will get me through most of the Spring semester). I have developed my 8 life verses I read every day.

And on top of that, starting in October I added scripture writing - which is amazing. So I read my 8 life verses, read my Proverb, Psalm and currently Gospel chapter (I am in Matthew), and then I work on writing scriptures. It being November, I found a thanksgiving writing plan. I will settle on my December one by Tuesday of this next week. It allows me to read a portion of verses (usually around 5), write them and think on them. The act of writing the verses makes them more real to me, I have to pay attention to the words.

On top of all this I am reading for pleasure. And trying to write more. I do want to be published by 33 and have several book ideas in my head, with one started on paper.

During this time....an election occurred. To say it was interesting would be an understatement. I have never been more excited for an election to be complete. It will be interesting to see how 2016 is recorded in the history books 30, 50, 75 years from now. So much hostility, friction, division, and animosity. People are still hurting, and probably will be for some time. There is denial and resentment, and smugness even from some. My thoughts on the whole thing are this:

• We as a country are divided. And we have done it to ourselves.
• We have put our hope in our politicians and elected leaders.
• We have stayed silent and sat back because it was easier.
• We have what we have because we deserve it.

Those are some hard truths to swallow. But we have given up our liberties for the illusion of security. And therefore we really have neither.

As a believer, this is what I hold true:

• This world is not my home.
• No man on earth can save me.
• My hope must rest in Jesus and His kingdom to come.
• As a believer, my life is to show fruits, and my actions show and grow those fruits.

Sister's (and any Brother's reading) we have to stop sitting back. We need to be harvesters in the field. We need to work. The Christian life is not meant to be a cushy position. It takes work, it takes sweat, it takes loss, and sacrifice. We are to be an example of Christ in this broken world. He came to serve not be served. Therefore, how are you serving? How are you helping? Give your time and talents. If you are tired of believers in the faith being persecuted stand up. If you are tired of being dismissed by the media, put your voice out there. If you are not being heard, it is because you are being silent. It might cost you, more than likely it will, but it is better to pay the price then be denied by Christ before the Father.

As we go into the holidays, with Christmas, New Year, and colder weather, lets focus on brotherly love. Let us help each other. Look for ways to lend a hand, give some cookies, or donate a blanket. Most churches have programs going, as do food banks and homeless shelters. We can all do something. And if you have little one's at home, take them with you. It will be hard, but they learn to live the Christian life by seeing you live it out.

We gathered with Thanksgiving in our hearts.

Patriotism, Politics & Faith

 



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Anytime my daughter sees anything red, white, and blue she yells, "Mommy, America!" Doesn't matter if it is the American flag, Texas flag, or even the Houston Texans flag, she associates red, white and blue with America.

It makes my heart happy.

I love that my daughter, even though she doesn't know why, loves her country. Her excitement is catching. It also makes her dad happy because his favorite holiday is Independence Day.

But in this day and age, I have to wonder what has happened to our country. With the way things are going, is there going to be anything for her to be proud of in regards to this country when she is an adult.

I have been interested in politics since my senior year of high school when I took Government AP with Mr. James. He made people think, the work was hard, the class a challenge. If you said you stood for something, or believed in something, you had to have a reason. And because it was what you were raised to believe, or how your parent's believed was not enough for him. He challenged every student to think for themselves and form their own opinions. To do research. Now if after studying, and reflecting you still held the same beliefs and opinions he would leave you be. But you had to put effort into what you thought.

I vote - every election that I can - I vote. As the years have gone by I have done more and more research and feel that with every elections I am more and more informed. I have matured in my voting knowledge and skill. Some elections I have felt at a loss, unsure of who to truly vote for. Other elections I have felt confident with whom I voted for. In fact, in order to make sure I get my vote in I always early vote (missed it once and had to vote on election day and it was horrible!). And, odd as it sounds, I always take my children with me. I have taken them with strollers, wrapped in my Moby, and clinging to my legs. I want them to know about voting and if they have questions, mostly my daughter, I get to explain what I am doing and why it is important.

Then there is this election.

I was flabbergasted that there were 17 nominees for the Republican ticket last year. Now I loved that Ted Cruz was in the running, and I threw my hat behind him. I was more than a bit disappointed when he dropped out. There were a few other candidates that I was okay with if they were the eventual nominee. All that to say - none of them, even Ted Cruz, are perfect, they are all flawed individuals. but I was willing to go along with the party platform for almost any of the nominees.

I will confess, I thought Donald Trump running was a publicity stunt. I did not fathom that he was serious about running. So when he became the Republican nominee....well, I was floored. I never cared for his show, or for him. He has always been rash, rude and crude in my opinion.  And to think that he is who was selected, it has had me thinking, praying, and researching for months.

I will say, without a doubt, I will not vote for Hillary Clinton. That woman is deplorable, and minus being a woman and from America, in my opinion embodies all the characteristics of the anti-Christ. Through over a year of study in the Book of Revelation I know she is not the anti-Christ, but the Bible does tell of people embodying characteristics of the anti-Christ, but as bad as they are, they are not The Anti-Christ. Mrs. Clinton is a liar, does not care about others, has no regard for life (unborn or soldiers), and believes she can do what she wants. In fact, she does do what she wants, and those who can do anything about her corruption have let her get away with it all.

So, many would naturally assume that since I will not vote for Mrs. Clinton I must be voting for Trump. After Ted Cruz dropped out I was really convicted on being held accountable for my vote to God. I have hated voting "the lesser of two evils" for so many years past, and had hoped this year I would be able to vote in good conscience. But with the options presented...there is no lesser evil. It is evil vs. evil and America is the loser. I cannot vote Trump. For about a month I thought that I could swallow my indignation and cast my vote for him, but I cannot deny what he is: a lost man, a philanderer, a chauvinist, disregarder of personal rights, rude, crude...he is deplorable. Not his voters, he himself is the deplorable.

Now, what am I going to do? I have heard it preached from the mountain tops that if I don't cast my vote for Trump I am giving my vote to Hillary. And vice versa. I am contemplating leaving that section of my election ballot blank. I just recently was made aware of  Darrell Castle. I am doing my research, so maybe, just maybe I can "vote" for someone. But I have resolved that I will not vote for Trump or Clinton. And I know people will be upset saying am giving my vote away, that I am part of the problem. No people. The problem is our world is broken and needs Jesus. Too many individuals are putting their faith in flawed individuals and not in Jesus. No matter who wins this election (if Trump or Clinton I believe America loses for the next four years), Jesus is who my faith is in. And when I get to heaven and have to give an account for my actions, I will in good peace say I did not vote for either.

So, 20 years from now, when my daughter is in her mid-20's, what will she have to be proud of in regards to her country? I don't know. But I do know that because of the circus this election has become, more people are registering to vote, and more people appear to be getting engaged. Liberalism and progressivism have chipped away at the foundation that started our country. As I grew up I never imagined the issues (social, political, spiritual)that we are currently facing. Covergirl has their first male spokesman, Christian bakers are shut down for not wanting to make a "wedding" cake for a lesbian couple, communities are destroying themselves because cops defend themselves from someone shooting at them, and a known liar and a t.v. personality are running for president. I don't know if to cry, laugh or both. Right now I am still in shock.

So how can we make sure that my daughter, and the all generations to come are proud of America when they get older? the Bible holds the answer:

2 Chronicles 7:14 (ESV)
¹⁴ if my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.

America was founded with a person's faith in mind. People, we must pray. We need to return to our first love God. We need to develop our relationship with him. We need to serve him, seek him, and live for him. And while many people may proclaim to be believers, they have no fruit to show for it. We are known by the fruits we produce:

Galatians 5:22-23 (ESV)
²² But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, ²³ gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.

Matthew 7:15-20 (ESV)
¹⁵ “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. ¹⁶ You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? ¹⁷ So, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit. ¹⁸ A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit. ¹⁹ Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. ²⁰ Thus you will recognize them by their fruits.

America is rotting. We are not longer producing spiritual fruit. If we want our children to grow up and have a country they can love, we need to get our knees and pray. We need to do as the Prophet Isaiah told us:
Isaiah 55:6 (NKJV)

⁶ Seek the Lord while He may be found,
Call upon Him while He is near.

 

There will come a time when he will no longer hear us. I pray that it is not too late.

 

Amen

Hearing

I had an opportunity this morning that I am extremely grateful for.

For the past year or so I have had the privilege to take Precept Bible Study. It is a very in depth study of the Bible, using the Bible to study the Bible. I am now in my 3rd semester on the Book of Revelation. It has been an amazing journey, and one I am glad I decided to take.

At the revival I was saved at, the night in particular the message was out of Revelation. And since that night about 17 years ago, the Book of Revelation has been a favorite of mine. The lady leading the precept class is amazing, Linda Munsart. She is a wellspring of information. The cross references she just produces when people asks questions is amazing. She is a living, breathing Bible Google.

I have learned so much in the past year from her. I have read some commentaries in years past on Revelation that were insightful. My pastor even did an almost year long study of Revelation on Wednesday nights a few years back. I have all my notes from that. When I lost my Bible earlier this year I was so frustrated because of all the notes I had in it, and because of personal revelations I had written in the Book of Revelation. But the insights I have garnered from studying under Linda Munsart can never be underappreciated. I have done the homework, the readings, I have thought over the lessons for the past year - and there are times none of it has made sense. Then I get to class, and for an hour to almost an hour and a half for 12 Sunday's in a row I am blown away. She brings it all together. She makes the picture make sense.

Linda is married to a man by the name of Harvey Munsart. He is a delight to study with, as he is in his wife's precept class. He sits front row, and I sit behind him. That is how we have done it into this 3rd semester. He has added wonderful insights into her teachings as he has an interesting perspective. He is a messianic Jew.

A messianic Jew, or fulfilled Jew or a Jewish believer is one who has accepted that Jesus is the Messiah. This morning I had the privilege to hear his testimony as he shared it with the secondary students during chapel at the academy I work at. I heard him Sunday night mention that he had the opportunity to share and was looking forward to doing it. I asked my boss first thing Monday morning if I could attend chapel to hear the testimony.  Mr. Munsart came to faith in Jesus only through the Old Testament. His heart was opened to Jesus by spending months going through Old Testament scriptures and seeing the fulfillment of prophecy in Jesus. And on February 12, 2002 he became a fulfilled Jew.

His testimony was amazing, and his perspective on Jewish tradition/culture very enlightening. He has written a book (I received it last year) on his testimony and his in-depth study of the Old Testament scriptures. After I complete the Revelation Precept I plan on reading his book. As I have discovered (from in class and this morning's chapel experience) he is a man of detail, so I want to give his book the time it deserves.

Thank you

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Thank you! My last post, my testimony of God working in my life to bring me to my new job, has been read 99 times. That is the most views/readings other than my post: America is Judah.

Thank you for sharing and caring enough to read my writings. Please share with me your thoughts, ideas, or any questions you might you have.

God Bless!

Moses, Joshua, & Ruth - Still Impacting Believing Women in 2016

God is amazing. Do you know that sister? Do you know how amazing He is? Have you experienced his omnipotent power personally?

One of the greatest blessings of being a believer is we can boldly come before the throne of the Heavenly Father and make our petitions known to Him. And the closer you draw to Him, the more aware you will be.

I have heard it said that if your testimony doesn't have a current accounting of God impacting your life, maybe you have drifted apart from Him. There might be a smidge of truth to this. I have several small events that I know are of God, I also know of the biggest one in my life (calling off my first engagement/wedding). But now, now I have an even better story of God working in my life, a story that is 8 years in the making.

~*~*~*~

Eight years ago, I moved from Corpus Christi, Texas to Pasadena, Texas (just outside of Houston, Texas). Within about a two week period I found the church I wanted to join and be apart of. Only after that did I find a job. (God is wonderful! He makes sure you have your priorities in line). The church I was blessed to find was First Baptist Church of Pasadena, Texas.

I love how I found it to, I got stuck at a traffic light (Red Bluff and Fairmont). I sat there for well over 10 minutes. Back in2008 there was a brick wall with a digital running message. That night, as I got stuck at that light, I eventually read the message: the times for service. I made a mental note to myself to come that Sunday. And finally the light turned green.

I joined during my 2nd Sunday visit, and over time I have become more and more involved. First I was in a Sunday School class, then I taught (Jr. High on Saturday night, 1st grade on Sunday mornings), now I help with admin stuff in my ladies class and I sing in choir. I have over the years attended as often as I could: Tuesday Bible Lunch, Wednesday night service, and every opportunity on Sunday. I had someone once ask me if I was there every time the doors opened.

My answer then was not that much, but close.

Now, I have not set my church up as an idol, or the staff. I just  love the feeling of the place. I have always felt welcomed, challenged, motivated and inspired . The people there are all sinners in need of a Savior, and the welcome all who thirst for the living water. Since 2008 the church has grown (building size and congregation wise), the school that is attached to the church has grown, there are new staff members, and so much more. The leadership of the church is always pushing the members to live harder for Christ - they are pushing us to draw closer to Jesus, prayer more, and reach out to lost.

I love being around the people at the church - they have hearts that are set on serving.

And semi-secretly, I have wanted to work there for 8 years. That has been a secret desire of my heart.

Not many have known of this desire, just a few.

Now, fast forward to about 3 weeks ago.

I had cooking club with some lovely ladies from church. We have been working our way through Ree Drummond's (aka The Pioneer Woman) first cook book. It has been a great experience and has us all cooking more for our families. Well when we met this last time I put forth a prayer request. Brock and I have been considering our future and how best to provide for our little family and accomplish what God has set on our hearts. The other thing I mentioned was that God had placed on my heart that my time at Strawberry Fields of Learning was coming to an end.

I told the ladies I wasn't sure what that meant or even the time line. Remember God told Abraham and Sarah they would have a child and it took 25 years for Issac to be born. 25 years! I have a hard time waiting 5 minutes in the drive thru for my breakfast, heaven help me if I had to wait 25 years. But, I have learned lately that time is not of importance to God, but timing is of the utmost importance. So, when God laid this on my heart, He also laid on me to do nothing but wait and say nothing. That was May of this year (2016).

God knows us, He created us. He knew to tell me to be patient and wait. To pray. Because the flesh/worldly side of me would have started job hunting - I would have gone into fix it mode instead of waiting. So I have waited. I have said nothing. I have prayed. And I have worked. I have worked on the projects that I normally do during the summer. I have gone forward at my job as Director as though I would be in that position for many years to come.

That night at cooking club I felt compelled to share my prayer request. So while we were wrapping up I laid it out there. Now this wonderful group of ladies are mostly teachers (only one other besides myself is not a teacher). And once I made my request known they agreed to pray for me. (Sister's if you do not have a group of ladies in your corner, get some! They will help keep you sane). But they also had an idea. It was suggested to me that I apply for a job with a local school district to be a secretary: great benefits, better pay than many think, holidays/summer off, etc. I must admit, that sounded very enticing. I told them I would think on it.

As I left, I felt upon my heart to call my mother in love and run the entire issue by her. She wasn't at home but would be soon. I was just around the corner, so I met her and my father in love within minutes. I ran the idea by her and she agreed that it did sound great, and that I would be qualified. Then she gave me a but,

Her boss was in need of an assistant, and right away. She works for the private school that is a ministry of our church. His current assistant was transferring over to the church asap. I let her know that if he was willing to interview me, I would love to apply. Within minutes I had a Monday morning interview set up. Before I left, she prayed over me with my father in love.

If you have read the story of Ruth you know that Ruth respected and loved Naomi. I am blessed to have a wonderful mother in law and she is such a great example. The story of Ruth is such a wonderful story. It is possible to have a good relationship with your mother in law. Strive for it!

During this I had communicated with Brock what was going on, and why I wasn't home yet. When I got home, I went into more detail and he backed my decision.

Sunday I shared with my Sunday School class what had happened the night prior and what was to come the next day. That day I prayed, and prayed often. During evening service, our Pastor called for a time of prayer. Brock and I went down to the altar and prayed together.

The next morning, I went to work and took care of business. I made sure all was covered and went for my interview.

I went with 2 mindsets: if I got the job, it was all God and if I did not get the job, then it was a test from God on if I would be obedient.

The interview was amazing and extensive. A personality profile, 3 individuals sat in on the interview, and I was asked questions that I had me truly evaluating my walk. Who were my hero's, what books was I reading, had I led anyone to Christ, what was my testimony. Just to give you an idea. I was told by Friday I would be told if the job was mine.

I went back to work and did what I needed to do.

The next morning before 9:00am I was given an offer for employment.

I called Brock and told him the news. We had ironed out a few details prior on things that would have to happen if I was going to be able to accept the job. I then had to make the phone call to my boss. All she knew was that the day prior I had business to take care of.

I called her and let her know everything, going back all the way to May and what God and put on my heart. Her and I ironed out a few details and I effectively gave my notice. I called my future new boss and accepted the job.

We had to keep mum for over a week as the owner of the preschool (my boss) was on vacation and she wanted to announce in person to the staff. So for a week O worked hard getting life squared away and ready for me to be gone. People wondered what was going on, but things were kept under wrap.

Last Wednesday she came back to town and we told the staff. There were tears, a few "No ma-am's" and plenty of hugs to go around. That day we drafted a letter that informed the parents of the change that was to come. This past Friday I ended my 5 years of employment at Strawberry Fields of Learning. I was given a great send off - cake, balloons, flowers, gifts and much love.

During the past few weeks I have read about the transition that happened from Moses to Joshua. Moses was banned from entering the Promise Land because he disobeyed God when he struck the rock with his staff (Numbers 20). And because of that Moses only got to see a glimpse of the Promise Land before joining his ancestors. Joshua was selected to lead Israel into the Promise Land.

This history from the Bible has stuck with me. If you know me personally, you know life at work the past year has been a rough journey. But over the past 6 months life has been better, we have seen glimpses of our own promise land. And so I have likened myself to Moses, and that God has allowed me a glimpse of what is to come, but that I can go no further with tribe I had been entrusted to guide and lead.

I have pondered what my disobedience was, and I have summarized is that I hired the wrong person. On paper she was fabulous, and I jumped on the opportunity. But I didn't look deeper, didn't pray/think over it. Within days of hiring the lady, numerous applicants that could have been better came through my door. But I hired her in fear of not having a teacher.

And now that the school is in a good position, God has removed me and is letting someone else lead that wonderful group of ladies into a brighter future.

But I have no regrets. Today was day 2 at my new job, and I am loving it. I am loving the environment, the opportunity, and the people. I have my dream job, it took 8 years, and many trials, but I have my hearts desire and cannot wait to see what is to come.

A Strong Face

If you know me personally, you may have seen me use the hashtag #stupidpcos

I have Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. Also endometriosis. I have had both for about 17 year.

I have what is described a mild case: irregular period, heavy bleeding, acne, weight gain. And the cyst on my ovaries, which have been known to rupture. I thank God I haven't had a rupture lately.....those days are the worst.

If you are lucky enough to get pregnant, there have been cases of women overcoming their PCOS. After 2 pregnancies, and nursing for the past years, I finally had to admit I did not overcome mine. I stopped nursing this past October. We are 9 months past that....my hormones have basically leveled back out. And each month...my cycle gets worse. I cramp more, I have no energy, I am sick....But I put on a strong face for the world.

But I can't at home. I am so blessed that at home, I can let my symptoms take over and just try and survive.

No make up, hair natural, sweat pants without a waist band (pressure hurts!), and my good and faithful heating pad. I am a hoot to be around when my cycle comes along. If I make it off the couch at night it is a miracle.

I thank God that he gives me the strength and motivation to get up in the morning and go to work. The easiest thing would be to stay home and sleep all day. Actually, minus taking my kids to breakfast that is what I pretty much did yesterday. I took 2 naps.

So when I post that lovely little hash tag, know that it is me trying to inject some humor into my life. The pain is getting worse each cycle, and my energy lags progressively more.

And to all my sisters out there with a disease or illness that the world cannot see...I am with you. I understand the will power you have to have to get on with life. Some of you have no option, you have to have that brave face on all the time, you do not have a refuge like I do. I pray for you. Pray for me.

Captivated by a Wild Heart

Shortly after I called off my wedding I was given a book to read.

Let me go back in time first...

I once was engaged to a soldier in the Army. About six weeks before the wedding date I called the whole thing off.

Let me go a bit further back...

My parent's divorced when I was 2 1/2 years old. My daddy has never remarried, and maybe only dated a few times less than a handful. My mom remarried two times more after that. Her and my dad have been married about 20 something years. But the experience of living with different families, going through divorce....I never wanted my children to go through that. I never wanted to go through that.

Now I don't think people want to go through divorce. But I do believe if people took more time before they married, and create a Biblical foundation, then there would be less divorce in this world.
So, at six weeks before the big day, I called off my wedding. The signs were there, but honestly I ignored them. I still had not had a bridal shower. I would not commit to stationary for a shower. Now things were paid for: venue, cake, photographer, wedding dress...But, I called the whole thing off. And the reason I waited so long was because I feared disappointing my family. Eventually the message got through my head that they were not the ones who were going to have to live with the man, I was. And if they were upset with me calling off a wedding, that they had not helped pay for, well that would be on them.

No one was disappointed. A few were relieved. A few were even proud of me for having the gumption to do take the action that I did. His actions afterwards validated my decision that what I had done was right. He is now married, lives in Florida, and has two sons.

So a while after I called the wedding off and started getting my life on track, I ran into a friend from about a decade prior. This friend and I caught up and it was recommended to me to read the book "Captivating" by John and Stasi Eldredge.

It transformed my life. And I am grateful for the women who encouraged the couple to write it. Originally they wrote "Wild at Heart," a book for men. And the women in the lives of these men who were transformed by reading "Wild at Heart" decided to read what their men had read. And after reading it, they pleaded for a book of their own. And "Captivating" came to be. Again, thank you!

"Set deep in the heart of every woman are three core desires.  Every woman longs for romance,
to play an irreplaceable role in a great adventure, and to be the Beauty in the tale.  It is for such that we were made." - from the website, www.ransomedheart.com (which is their ministry).

Ladies, if you want a book that will change your walk and your life, please get this book. Then get the study guide to go with it. I have read it twice, and plan on starting it again in a few days.

After I read it the first time, I realized something. I wanted to marry a man who had read "Wild at Heart." God placed a friend I hadn't seen in a decade into my life so that I could read this book. If  He did that for me, so that I could be a better believer and follower of Him, I wanted to be paired with a man who had been transformed too. A few years later I would meet my husband, and on his bookcase was a semi-battered copy of Wild at Heart.

God provides.

So, I am a bit of a odd duck. I don't have Hollywood or Music Industry crushes. Oh yes, I like actors, singers and such, but I don't obsess over them, and have no plans to travel anywhere to see any of the people I do watch/listen to anytime soon.

But, when you go into the realm of Christianity and its authors, churches, and preachers....that is different! I want to visit Sherwood Baptist Church in Georgia, this is the church that has put out the movies Fireproof and Courageous. If I met the Kendrick brothers, I would be on cloud nine. I want to go to The Cove, it is the Billy Graham Training Center, and I would love to study under his daughter Anne Graham Lotz (she is an amazing writer and speaker!). And I want to go to Colorado to visit Ransomed Heart ministries. That is the ministry of John and Stasi Eldredge.

And this October (right before my birthday) they are holding a Captivating Conference. To get a ticket is by lottery, so there is not guarantee. But next year, I will have money put aside, and I will enter that lotto for a chance to visit and study under individuals who transformed my life by a book...

But until then, I will the one book that is living, and can transform any life! The Bible. Above any other book you read, take the time to read your Scriptures. And may I make a suggestion? Use an actual Bible, not your cell phone. A Bible you can touch, you can feel, one with pages you can turn, or even mark in. To me there is always a deeper connection to scripture and to God when I actually read from my Bible instead of some app.

Good Night & God Bless!
Jessica

when 30 is young and wise

1 Timothy 4:12

Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity.

In the spring of 1999 I was inducted into the Junior National Honor's Society. My family was so proud of me. My Granny bought me a beautiful light tan and white hounds tooth two piece skirt suit set. She purchased white panty hose and small white heels for me to wear. With my hair pulled back and my glasses, everyone said that I looked 13 going on 30. Teachers commented that my maturity was that of an almost 30 year old.

Fast forward 18 years, I am 30, just a few months away from 31.

And there are times I feel that I am much older than my almost 31 years.


When I started my ministry I was anxious. Why me? What could I possibly share with women about marriage at my young age and with so few years experience?

But then I remind myself of the saying, "God doesn't call the qualified, He qualifies the called." If God calls you to do something, He has a reason, and obedience is the answer.

One thing I have been working on is listening. Not just to God, but to the other "W.I.F.E.'s" in my life. I have been working on not interjecting a thought, or my own similar occurrence, but just listening. I am not perfect, but I am trying.

Here is what I have heard:

• That gorgeous woman with long blonde hair and great make up, who works outs several times a week....her husband doesn't find her attractive.
• The lady with a growing business, husband and a child, she doesn't want a 2nd child at this point. And she feels shame because everyone around her tells her she should.
• That lady with the happy little boy who is almost 2....she is experiencing secondary infertility. She wants another baby and for some reason she cannot get pregnant. She struggled to have her first child, but everyone reassured her that once she had that first baby it would be easier to conceive next time. But that has not been the case.
• That woman with a husband, two children and a great job. She struggles with self image. Her husband thinks she looks amazing, but she constantly puts herself down and struggles to see the beauty he sees.
• That young lady who has friends, a supportive family, yes with a crazy one or two and a new love interest. She takes everything personally and it is a struggle for her. She gives her all and feels crushed if something doesn't work out.

But what does the world see?

They see women who keep on going. Who go through each day, who do not quit. Life has thrown things at them, but they haven't stopped. Oh don't get me wrong, they get down, they get upset, they even scream at times, but they keep going.

And it is because of women like this that God has called me to serve the Women in Faith.

I am not sure what I am supposed to do exactly. I know I have a book to finish, and an idea for a Bible Study brewing. Beyond that right now, I am not sure. But what I have been told by God for now is to listen. And listen I will. And when I hear what I need to, I will move where God directs.

So, though I am only 30, have only been married 5 years, and only a mother 3 1/2 years, I have something to say, and say it I will. My age will not discredit me.

Dallas

Last night my husband and I watched "Risen."

I highly recommend the movie. It gave an interesting perspective of the resurrection from the eyes of a Roman soldier. It was thought provoking.

As a rule these days, my husband and I attempt to leave our phones in another room during movies so we can actually engage in the movie in front of us.

Last night after the movie we both got on our phones...

Minutes after bullets started raining in Dallas we were made aware of it. Media is a gift...media is a curse.

We are killing ourselves. America is dying.

Life matters. Blue, black, unborn. We are killing ourselves, with senseless crimes, by choice. Life no longer has value to the average person. We must stand up and fight for life.

My husband and I went to bed last night whispering about how senseless it all is. We woke up this morning and turned the news on. We turned the volume down, but children are curious. We had to explain to our daughter, in terms should could understand, what happened.

The world my children are growing up in is different then the world I grew up in.

My Pastor challenged us last week to teach our children the Bible:

¹⁸ “Therefore you shall lay up these words of mine in your heart and in your soul, and bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. ¹⁹ You shall teach them to your children, speaking of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up. ²⁰ And you shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates, ²¹ that your days and the days of your children may be multiplied in the land of which the Lord swore to your fathers to give them, like the days of the heavens above the earth. - Deuteronomy 11

Folks, the Bible needs to be our everything. In the days ahead, the answers we need will only be found in scripture.

My family and I are praying for Dallas. And our country. And our future.

America is Judah - An In-Depth Look at Isaiah 5 (A continuiation of my Politics post)

Last night I shared some of my thoughts on the politics in America. And to be honest for the rest of the summer, minus something happening that calls me back, I am going to avoid the political scene. I easily get upset/stirred up/agitated by politics, which honestly is not a healthy way to live.

But before I remove myself from politics for a short season I wanted to expand on what I wrote last night. After I clicked "Publish" and shared on my Facebook Page I felt the Holy Spirit tell me I needed to go deeper. That I skirted around the Isaiah 5 passage too lightly. That I did not make a proper comparison of how that passage applies to America today. And, to be honest, if it were not for my husband training a client in my living room currently, I probably would not be going deeper. But I know this, obedience is always best when it is immediate. And if God wants you to do something, He will get you into a position to where you have no other alternative.

Last night I shared the following:

"Let's be honest, our country is collapsing in on itself. To quote my pastor from this weekend's sermon, "America is morally and spiritually bankrupt." And he is right. We are living in the days of the Bible mentioned in Isaiah 5."

Now I want to break down how we compare with Judah.

Isaiah 5 (NLT):

Judah’s Guilt and Judgment

⁸ What sorrow for you who buy up house after house and field after field,
    until everyone is evicted and you live alone in the land.

When I read verse 8 the housing crisis/bubble a few years back comes to mind. Homes and subdivisions popped up everywhere, fields and trees were torn up, and new communities sprung up. But then people had to face a cold, hard truth. They could not afford what they had purchased, and homes were left empty. Numerous subdivisions, full a year prior, had only a handful of families living in them.

⁹ But I have heard the Lord of Heaven’s Armies
    swear a solemn oath:
“Many houses will stand deserted;
    even beautiful mansions will be empty.

Again the housing bubble a few years back. Everyone was affected: lower, middle, and upper class.

¹⁰ Ten acres of vineyard will not produce even six gallons of wine.
    Ten baskets of seed will yield only one basket of grain.”

I can't help but think of how much trouble farmers have had the past decade with their crops. Drought, flooding, fires, freezes... the list goes one and on. While this verse specifically mentions grapes not producing wine, I see the parallel of a staple crop not producing enough, so in modern times it could be corn, cacao, or even wheat.

¹¹ What sorrow for those who get up early in the morning
    looking for a drink of alcohol
and spend long evenings drinking wine
    to make themselves flaming drunk.
¹² They furnish wine and lovely music at their grand parties—
    lyre and harp, tambourine and flute—
but they never think about the Lord
    or notice what he is doing.

Oh where to begin! I am generally disgusted with television and the news these days. Most shows show people living life and that the only way to have fun is drink and party. There are news shows, and I use the term news lightly, devoted to Hollywood and the gatherings they have. Social media is filled with people who are celebrities just for partying and drinking. And that is all those individuals are known for! These people seem to live in a 24 hour party: drinking, sleeping around, using drugs, disregarding morality and responsibility.

Now I understand that most Americans, most individuals, do not live completely like this. But honestly, the lives of most believers today does not reflect the life of believers in the Book of Acts.

¹³ So my people will go into exile far away
    because they do not know me.

Many churches are dying - by numbers and in faith. The Gospel is not being preached, so more and more people are staying home. Oh yes, there are numerous "MEGA" churches in our country, but God's word is not being shared there. A feel good, God means for you to prosper if you pray hard enough message is coming out of those monstrous buildings. People have forgotten that a building is not a church, the people are the church. A building is just a shell, a place for the Living Church (God's children, believers!) to gather in His name for worship and edification. But too many "churches" today are large shells with lost people in them.

Those who are great and honored will starve,
    and the common people will die of thirst.

This ties into what I said above. The starvation and thirst here though is not about hunger. People are starving and thirsting for the Gospel, the Good News, the Love of Jesus! Only He can satisfy.

John 7 NLT - Jesus Promises Living Water

³⁷ On the last day, the climax of the festival, Jesus stood and shouted to the crowds, “Anyone who is thirsty may come to me! ³⁸ Anyone who believes in me may come and drink! For the Scriptures declare, ‘Rivers of living water will flow from his heart.’” ³⁹ (When he said “living water,” he was speaking of the Spirit, who would be given to everyone believing in him. But the Spirit had not yet been given, because Jesus had not yet entered into his glory.)

¹⁴ The grave^[d] is licking its lips in anticipation,
    opening its mouth wide.
The great and the lowly
    and all the drunken mob will be swallowed up.

People are dying sisters. Without hearing how Christ died for us they are dying. Unless someone hears of Jesus, unless we share His message how can seeds be planted to be watered by the Holy Spirit. We cannot save others. But we can introduce them to God's word which is proven, true and living. Because if someone does not know Jesus, after the tribulation period they will be in Hell for eternity.

¹⁵ Humanity will be destroyed, and people brought down;
    even the arrogant will lower their eyes in humiliation.
¹⁶ But the Lord of Heaven’s Armies will be exalted by his justice.
    The holiness of God will be displayed by his righteousness.

This is prophecy. This is what is to come! This is happening... I started this post 2 days ago (7/6/2016). Last night, 7/7/2016 individuals attacked the Dallas Police Department. 10 crusaders for law, justice, and what is right were targeted and slaughtered. There have been numerous acts of terrorism, mass shootings, riots that destroy entire communities in the past few years. Humanity is being destroyed before our eyes. When I ponder on the arrogant lowering their in humiliation, I instantly think about politicians, and the very wealthy who think they are above the law, are above the rest. But I know that even believers can be arrogant. We can even be judgmental. Anyone with a spirit of arrogance will be put in their place. God allows and does all that He does to bring Glory to Himself, to exalt his holiness.

¹⁷ In that day lambs will find good pastures,
    and fattened sheep and young goats will feed among the ruins.

Oh sisters, find comfort! We are the lambs. Remember John 21:17:

(NKJV)
¹⁷ He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of Jonah, do you love Me?” Peter was grieved because He said to him the third time, “Do you love Me?”
And he said to Him, “Lord, You know all things; You know that I love You.”
Jesus said to him, “Feed My sheep.

Did you read Isaiah 5:17 - the lambs find good pastures, the fattened sheep and young goats will feed among the ruins. Humanity will be crushed, but believers will be fed. There will come a day when we will be fat with the WORD OF GOD!

¹⁸ What sorrow for those who drag their sins behind them
    with ropes made of lies,
    who drag wickedness behind them like a cart!
¹⁹ They even mock God and say,
    “Hurry up and do something!
    We want to see what you can do.
Let the Holy One of Israel carry out his plan,
    for we want to know what it is.”

Now is the time. People need to hear the gospel. If not, their hearts could become hardened like Pharaoh to where they will not repent and will be forever separated from Jesus.

Do you remember your life before Jesus? I do. Fear, hatred (for self and others), belief in the notion of victim hood, blaming others for all my problems.

But when I accepted Jesus as my Savior, I was changed. I saw His miracles all around me. I had a peace that surpasses human understanding. I have a hidden strength to go on when the world shouts to stop, fall, and fail.

People mock God everyday. We take His name in vain, we neglect the widows and orphans, we snub our noses at those in need. We are all guilty. We are all sinners.

²⁰ What sorrow for those who say

    that evil is good and good is evil,

that dark is light and light is dark,

    that bitter is sweet and sweet is bitter.

This is life now. This is our country. Those on the extreme liberal side of life want to demolish the values that established our country. They want to go away with the rules that God laid out for us.

• Punish people if they think differently than you.
• If someone doesn't condone your sin, destroy them.
• Abort those cells in your uterus, you have a choice, it's not yet human.
• Go ahead and marry your cat, marriage is not about man and woman, its about who or what you love. If you love something, you can marry it.
• Shame on women for not wanting their children to use a restroom with a man who has a mental condition that makes him think he is a woman.

I probably will make some people mad. But God clearly says what is right! And I will not whimper or apologize.

• Grow up, if someone thinks differently than you, get a spine and don't be offended.
• I will pray for you, but will not condone your sin. And you should not condone sin in my life. Pray for me!
• God knit us in our mother's womb. We are not a mistake, all life is precious.
• Marriage is between a man and a woman - ONLY! If you want to support someone financially and pay the expense of another individual, go for it. More power to you. But do not take something Biblical and make it worldly.
• I feel bad for those who suffer from mental issues and are not getting help. But if I take my daughter into a restroom and a man is in there, I will leave. I am not going to have that conversation with my 3 1/2 year old.

²¹ What sorrow for those who are wise in their own eyes
    and think themselves so clever.
²² What sorrow for those who are heroes at drinking wine
    and boast about all the alcohol they can hold.

²³ They take bribes to let the wicked go free,
    and they punish the innocent.

Have you watched the news this week? The average American, you and I, have been deceived and watched Lady Justice be hit to the ground. Hilary Clinton betrayed America and she was given a free pass. The Justice Department said she didn't intend to break the law, but she still did. If we are going to judge by intent then everyone can say they didn't intend to.... "hit my wife"..."molest that 10 year old"..."drive drunk"... The justice system is about making sure laws are obeyed, and she did not!

And the innocent are punished! Bakers who don't want to bake a cake for a gay couple are put out of business, fined, and have to go into hiding. Because they didn't want to bake a cake!! But Hilary Clinton disregarded protocol and put America in jeopardy and was given a free pass. Then after that joined President Obama on Air Force One and flew off to a rally.

Good grief! Deplorable.

²⁴ Therefore, just as fire licks up stubble
    and dry grass shrivels in the flame,
so their roots will rot
    and their flowers wither.
For they have rejected the law of the Lord of Heaven’s Armies;
    they have despised the word of the Holy One of Israel.
²⁵ That is why the Lord’s anger burns against his people,
    and why he has raised his fist to crush them.

We have turned from God, and He is removing His hand from us. He is allowing us to suffer the consequences of our actions. Our country is falling apart around us because we have neglected our first Love. If we as a country focused more on God than TMZ, Facebook, and pimple videos on YouTube, maybe, just maybe our country would not be killing itself.

The mountains tremble,
    and the corpses of his people litter the streets like garbage.
But even then the Lord’s anger is not satisfied.
    His fist is still poised to strike!

²⁶ He will send a signal to distant nations far away
    and whistle to those at the ends of the earth.
    They will come racing toward Jerusalem.
²⁷ They will not get tired or stumble.
    They will not stop for rest or sleep.
Not a belt will be loose,
    not a sandal strap broken.
²⁸ Their arrows will be sharp
    and their bows ready for battle.
Sparks will fly from their horses’ hooves,
    and the wheels of their chariots will spin like a whirlwind.
²⁹ They will roar like lions,
    like the strongest of lions.
Growling, they will pounce on their victims and carry them off,
    and no one will be there to rescue them.
³⁰ They will roar over their victims on that day of destruction
    like the roaring of the sea.
If someone looks across the land,
    only darkness and distress will be seen;
    even the light will be darkened by clouds.

Unless we turn to Jesus the days ahead will only get darker. Citizens are killing the peace keepers, parishioners are accusing the pastors, teachers are violating the trust of their students. Wrong is now right.... 1+2=4 now. Truth is no longer truth, truth is feelings. Our enemies will take us over if we don't do 180* right now. Turn to Jesus!